The Mattabesett Blue Blazed Hiking Trail

Mattabesett Trail Bluff Head
Mattabesett Trail Bluff Head

The Mattabesett Trail is a 50 mile long Blue Blazed Trail in New Haven, Hartford, and Middlesex Counties. A major portion of this trail is a leg of the New England National Scenic Trail (NET). The Mattabesett is made up of 9 distinct sections which rise and fall along trap rock ridges which offer commanding views of The Connecticut River Valley.

Along the way a number of shorter branch and loop trails criss-cross the Mattabesett - such as The Lone Pine Trail, and Seven Falls Trail. The Mattabesett connects to two other Blue Blazed Trails as well: The Menunkatuck, and The Metacomet. It is possible to hike from Long Island Sound to the border of Massachusetts near Springfield along these three trails. You will find links to articles about the various sections of The Mattabesett that I have hiked so far, as well as trail maps and coordinates to parking spots.

Best Places to Walk in Connecticut

St. Mary's By The Sea - Bridgeport CT
St. Mary's By The Sea - Bridgeport CT
Connecticut has a driving culture; but there are still a few places reserved for pedestrians only. Walking is a great activity for health and wellness, or just for filling the time. It can also be the main activity in a day trip - a reason to go out somewhere new.

Usually, I write about hiking - which is a different activity altogether. A good walk is flat and easy - something anyone can do - even with a cane or in a wheelchair. Today, I've chosen ten of my favorite walks in The State. And, I've ranked them according to their walkability, amenities, and scenery. If you are looking for a great afternoon walk by the sea or in the woods try one of these out.

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Hiking Quinnipiac River State Park

The Qunnipiac Trail - Quinnipiac River State Park
The Qunnipiac Trail - Quinnipiac River State Park

Every trail has its challenges. The first section of the Quinnipiac Blue Blazed trail is 4-5 miles of difficult stream crossings and hacking through dense underbrush. The Quinnipiac is the original Blue Blazed Trail. The complete trail is 24 miles and travels from North Haven to Cheshire.

Along its way it passes through two State Parks: The Quinnipiac River State Park and Sleeping Giant State Park. Section 1 is contained within the former. The elevation is constant; so the challenge is not in the climbs. But, because the entire length of Section 1 lies with in a flood plain, the geography of the river changes so frequently that it becomes difficult to provide bridges to cross streams and oxbows.

The vegetation here is rapid growing and weedy. If it is not hacked clean weekly the path becomes overgrown with thorny thistles. Your best bet for completing this section is to go in high winter; particularly after a week of deep freeze when streams are frozen and able to be crossed. A summer hike here is a battle against undergrowth, mosquitoes, and flies.

Hiking Mt Higby - Mattabesett Trail

Along the Mattabesett Trail - Mt Higby
Along the Mattabesett Trail - Mt Higby

The Mattabesett Trail is a 50 mile long Blue Blazed Trail in New Haven, Hartford, and Middlesex Counties. A major portion of this trail is a leg of the New England National Scenic Trail (NET).

The Section that includes Mt Higby is the final section of the Mattabesett where it joins with The Metacomet Trail. Mt Higby is a 2 mile long ridge that is part of the Metacomet Traprock Ridgeline. There are several reservoirs at the base of the Ridge. The hike is relatively easy, but does include three mountaineering rated climbs.

Hiking at Hancock Brook - Waterbury CT

Hancock Brook Blue Blazed Trail - Waterbury CT
Hancock Brook Blue Blazed Trail - Waterbury CT

The Hancock Brook Blue Blazed trail is a surprise gem of a hiking trail. It is short and sweet at 2.8 miles on a loop. There is a pleasant stroll at the beginning alongside picturesque Hancock Brook. Then hikers abruptly climb to two bald rock outlooks.

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The Mattatuck Trail - Mohawk Mountain


Mattatuck Trail Mohawk Mountain Section
Mattatuck Trail Mohawk Mountain Section

The Mattatuck Trail is a 36 mile Connecticut Blue Blazed Trail traveling through Litchfield County. Section 7 of this trail travels through Mohawk Mountain State Park and the trail terminates at a junction with The Mohawk Blue Blazed Trail.

This section of trail is not well traveled and includes two difficult rocky climbs. The are several interesting features along this section including a 360 panoramic view from the summit of Mohawk Mtn, and the ruins of Cunningham Tower - an bizarre project of the former wealthy owner of this land.

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Hiking The Mattatuck Trail White Memorial Conservation Center

White Memorial Conservation Center in Litchfield CT
White Memorial Conservation Center in Litchfield CT

The Mattatuck Trail is a Connecticut Blue Blazed hiking trail that extends 36 miles through Litchfield County. The 6.5 miles of the Mattatuck which passes through the White Memorial Conservation Center is the 5th section of the overall trail.

The White Memorial Foundation is a 4000+ acre wildlife sanctuary. It includes a vast network of supplementary trails to the Mattatuck. The trail along this section is wide and easy. Any level hiker will be comfortable hiking this section. This section is also open to bicycling.

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