Hike Quinnipiac River Trail: Wallingford

Since I was a child, I’ve always enjoyed hiking the Giant. As Connecticut parks go, this terrain is some of the most challenging (and unfortunately, the most dangerous) in the state. The actual ridge is approximately 2.75 miles long by 1.75 miles wide, and offers approximately 24 miles of hiking trails, from hard, steep climbs all the way to leisurely strolls. The park also has horse friendly t...

Sleeping Giant State Park is a place very close to my heart. I spent 4 years right across the street at Quinnipiac University and have hiked “The Giant” more times then I can count and at all different hours. There are a few different trails you can explore but my favorite one is up to the cliffs at the “head” of the giant, then over to the castle (stone tower).Parking can be tricky, the lot is...

Sleeping Giant State Park does not just have great hiking, it also has great climbing and bouldering. Pick up the blue trail starting at the backside of the visitor center. This trail climbs pretty steadily but take note that as you hike up the cliff below you is a great spot to checkout for bouldering and some top roping or trad climbing. When you get to the top of the mountain by the overlook...

Arriving to the falls, parking is residential but don't worry everyone is friendly. Starting off the hike you will walk past a cool pond where you may be able to see some wildlife. Continuing on, you will follow the marked trail where it will take you further into the woods while gaining elevation quickly. Get ready for some heart pumping hiking. Before you know it you will be able to see Roari...

Start from the Castle Craig road entrance. Walk until you're greeted by a beautiful reservoir. You'll notice the strange but beautiful Mine Island in the middle of all this. You'll also notice markers for White Trails and Yellow Trails. The White Trail is an easier/wider trail. The Yellow Trail Cuts through the White Trail which cuts the hike down a little length. You will follow the White/Yell...

The popular route for this hike is to park your car at the base of the trail which is located right before merging onto 91-S in Middlefield, CT. The parking lot does seem to get crowded mid-day, especially if the weather is nice!  The beginning of the hike is mostly flatter land and an incline will begin. Be careful of the rocks! Some are not secured into the ground, but as this trail has been...