Calling all adventure seekers! Connecticut may be known for its charming towns and coastal beauty, but hidden in the hills are some amazing hiking trails waiting to be explored. If you're seeking short, beautiful hikes, look no further. I'll introduce you to five hiking trails in Connecticut: from the beautiful but spookily named Bloody Mountain in Cornwall to Apple Hill in Morris, the scenic Mountain View Trail in Goshen, the steep but beautiful Breadloaf Mountain and McLean Game Refuge in Granby, these short hikes offer a beautiful escape.

Hiking In Connecticut

Connecticut, a hidden (and sometimes overlooked) gem in New England, is an absolute playground for adventure seekers! It has diverse landscapes of rolling hills to fern filled forests. Connecticut has an endless variety of hiking opportunities waiting to be explored. There's something for everyone. Strolling trails perfect for catching up with friends to heart-pumping challenges.

Importance of Hiking

Let's talk about the importance of hiking. It's the coolest way to connect with nature (maybe I'm biased) and offers amazing benefits. Imagine you're surrounded by trees, singing birds and the sun on your face. Hiking isn't just about the Instagram-worthy pics (but still get them, bc you did all that work). It's a chance to escape the daily grind and recharge our batteries. Let's not forget the physical and mental benefits. Every step you take builds your strength, improves your fitness, clears your mind, and boosts your mood.

Benefits of Short Hikes

Limited time? Not in the mood for a super intense adventure? Short hikes save the day! They're like bite-sized adventures that fit perfectly into our packed schedules. Short hikes are a mini reset button and you don't need to be a hiking expert to enjoy the them. We get a little exercise, a break from everyday life and a chance to reconnect with nature.

Bloody Mountain

Located in Cornwall, Bloody Mountain offers a rewarding hiking experience in a relatively short distance. The 2.5-mile round trip trail, known as Welles Preserve, leads you through forests, meadows, and slightly rocky terrain. The trail is easy to moderately difficult making it suitable for most hikers. Parking is on Town Street, 4/10 of a mile from the intersection of Route 128. When you arrive, there is a driveway, be sure to not block it and park off the side of the road.

To get to the trailhead you walk up the driveway, passing a house. The trail winds around the back of the property and into the forest. As you ascend, your treated to a beautiful view of Cornwall Village and the surrounding valleys. At thee top you can sit down on the Adirondack chairs and enjoy a snack and water break. While there, turkey vultures swarmed above us and there were two tee-pees to check out. Continue the loop to return to the main trail and head back down to your car.

Apple Hill

Nestled within White Memorial Conservation Center in Morris, Connecticut, this hiking destination promises a short yet exciting hike for all nature lovers. There are two trail options, both are out and back from separate entrances. The first is a 1.5 mile (3 miles total) trail with parking off East Shore Road. This trail takes you through the marsh and gradually climbs the hill. The second hiking option is a half mile (1 mile total) direct trail to the top. Parking is a little hidden here, but is also on East Shore Road. It seems as though you are pulling into a driveway and there is room for 2-3 cars. Walk to the right of the home and make your way up the hill in no time. Make sure to climb the observation deck and take in the spanning view of Bantam Lake. If you time this hike right, it's a perfect spot for sunset!

Mountain View Trail

For those seeking beautiful vistas (on a time/energy budget), the Mountain View Trail in Goshen is an absolute must-visit. This 2.8-mile out-and-back trail, part of the Goshen Land Trust, is known for its views of the Berkshire Mountains. As you hike along the trail, you'll be pass pastures and become immersed in forested landscape that gradually opens up to reveal breathtaking vistas. Be sure to bring your tripod to capture photos of you with the view. Watch out for the moss and lichen on the rock at the top, they are important to the ecosystem!

Breadloaf Mountain

Breadloaf Mountain may be one of my favorite gems. It is a super short hike totaling around 1.4 miles, but don't let that fool you. This hike is steep! In 0.7 miles you will gain over 500 feet. The viewpoint faces southwest, making is the perfect spot to catch a sunset! Just make sure you pack a head lamp and take your time hiking downhill. If you opt for a longer day hike, you could continue hiking through to Pine Knob - another favorite of mine!

McLean Game Refuge

Escape into the peaceful wilderness of McLean Game Refuge, located in Granby, Connecticut. This 4,400-acre refuge offers an extensive network of trails, providing hikers with endless opportunities for exploration. Choose from various trail options based on your desired distance and difficulty level. There are easy strolls along wooded paths to moderate hikes that lead to ponds and overlooks. The refuge is also known for its diverse wildlife, so keep your eyes peeled for deer, foxes, and various birds along the way.

Connecticut might be small, but it’s packed with incredible hikes that deserve a spot on your adventure list. From the rugged terrain of Bloody Mountain to the charming views at Apple Hill, the scenic Mountain View Trail, and the wild beauty of McLean Game Refuge, these four short hikes prove that great things come in small packages. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, these hikes are guaranteed to leave you wanting more.