Best Hikes in Middlesex County, Connecticut

Middlesex County in Connecticut is home to some of the state’s most rewarding hikes, from peaceful forest walks to scenic overlooks. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hiker, there’s a trail here that fits your pace and interest. In this post, we’ll highlight the best hiking spots in the county and what makes each one worth the trip.

Hurd State Park

A river runs through a forested landscape with trees displaying autumn colors under a partly cloudy sky. — Photo credit: Kailey MarcAurele.

Looking for a Connecticut hike with great views? Look no further than Hurd State Park in East Hampton. There are miles of trails to explore throughout the park. I like to hike up to Split Rock to the River Vista. In addition to hiking, you can also fish, picnic, and camp along the Connecticut River. It’s also a great spot to enjoy foliage in Connecticut.
Discover more things to do in East Hampton: Things To Do In East Hampton, Connecticut

Devil’s Hopyard State Park

A multi-tier waterfall cascades over dark rocks surrounded by lush greenery, reminiscent of the enchanting waterfalls in Connecticut, with a wooden fence at the top. — Photo credit: Kailey MarcAurele.

If you’re looking for a scenic hiking spot in Connecticut, Devil’s Hopyard State Park delivers. With wooded trails, waterfalls, and panoramic views, it’s a go-to destination for both casual walkers and seasoned hikers. There are various trails to explore, whether you’re looking for a relatively flat hike along the river or a steeper hike up to the vista.
Discover more waterfalls around Connecticut: Don’t Miss These Stunning Waterfalls in Connecticut

The Preserve

A person with a parachute descends through tall, leafless trees in a forest, silhouetted against the sky. — Photo credit: Kailey MarcAurele.

The Preserve, which spans Old Saybrook, Essex, and Westbrook, is one of Connecticut’s hidden gems for hiking. It offers almost 1,000 acres of protected forest and diverse wildlife. Its well-marked trails are perfect for all skill levels, whether you’re out for a quick walk or a longer trek.
Discover more things to do in Old Saybrook: Things To Do In Old Saybrook, CT

Meshomasic State Forest

Aerial view of a small lake surrounded by houses, dense green trees, and hills under a clear blue sky. — Photo credit: Kailey MarcAurele.

This is one of the largest state forests in Connecticut at over 9,000 acres. It’s in the towns of East Hampton, Portland, and Marlborough, Connecticut. My favorite hike to do is the Great Hill Mountain Loop. You can see Great Hill Pond below and the Connecticut River in the distance from the top.
Discover more Connecticut hikes with great views: 20 Connecticut Hikes With Great Views

Turtle Creek Wildlife Area

A sandy shoreline with driftwood and logs scattered along the water's edge, bordered by bare trees and reeds under an overcast sky. — Photo credit: Kailey MarcAurele.

This hike in Essex takes you to a cove along the Connecticut River. The hike is pretty flat and it’s only about a mile and a half. This isn’t a very busy spot, making it a very peaceful place to hike. It’s mostly wooded with a couple water views.
Discover more things to do in Essex: Things To Do In Essex, Connecticut

Wadsworth Falls State Park

A waterfall cascades gently over rocks surrounded by autumn foliage. The scene is serene, featuring flowing water and fallen leaves. — Photo credit: Kailey MarcAurele.

Looking for a quick nature escape with scenic trails and a waterfall payoff? Wadsworth Falls State Park in Middletown and Middlefield offers easy-to-moderate hikes, wooded paths, and two beautiful waterfalls. There are a lot of trails throughout the park, so it might be helpful to download a map beforehand.
Grab a bite to eat or a drink after your hike nearby: Krust Pizza (Middletown, CT) Bourbon Bar

Chatfield Hollow State park

A wooden water wheel is situated by a small pond, surrounded by trees and greenery under a cloudy sky. — Photo credit: Kailey MarcAurele.

Chatfield Hollow State Park in Killingworth is a hidden gem for hikers looking to explore scenic trails without venturing too far off the beaten path. With forested routes, boardwalks over wetlands, and striking rock formations, it’s the perfect spot for a refreshing day hike. Be sure to stop at Crossroads for ice cream after your hike.
Discover more to do in Killingworth: Lavender Pond Farm In Killingworth, CT

Stewart B. McKinney National Wildlife Refuge

A winding stream flows through a marshy wetland with dry grass and scattered patches of water, bordered by leafless trees under a clear sky. — Photo credit: Kailey MarcAurele.

Stewart B. McKinney National Wildlife Refuge in Westbrook offers a peaceful hiking experience along coastal trails rich with wildlife and salt marsh views. It’s an ideal spot for nature lovers, bird watchers, and anyone looking to unplug and enjoy a quiet walk by the water. If you’re seeking a low-key, scenic escape, this refuge is well worth a visit.

Seven Falls State Park

A small stream flows over rocks covered in snow in a forested area during winter. — Photo credit: Kailey MarcAurele.

Most people think this is just a roadside picnic area next to a waterfall, but there are actually trails to explore. There’s a fun two-mile loop you can do. The hike is ranked moderate because there are some steep sections with rock scrambles. While you’re in the area, be sure to pop over to Higganum Reservoir State Park for another waterfall.

Portland Reservoir

A calm blue lake stretches across the foreground with a dense line of evergreen trees and a clear blue sky in the background. — Photo credit: Kailey MarcAurele.

The Portland Reservoir in Portland is a quiet, wooded spot perfect for a short, scenic hike. With well-marked trails looping around the water, it’s a great choice for a peaceful walk, trail run, or quick nature break. If you’re looking for a low-traffic hiking spot with relaxing views, this hidden gem delivers. You can make this a longer hike with trails that connect to the Meshomasic State Forest.