Hiking is one of the best family activities out there. It’s the perfect way to let your kids get exercise while experiencing nature firsthand. The only problem is that not every trail was made for younger hikers. It seems like there’s a point where your child’s legs become jello, and they simply cannot move another step. Suddenly, that wonderful family moment becomes the most miserable trek of your life. If you’re looking to hit the trail with your favorite people, I would love to tell you about the best kid-friendly hikes in CT that even the smallest explorers will adore!
Enjoy Some Great Outdoor Time With These Kid-Friendly Hikes In CT
Rocky Neck State Park
228 N Main Street, Niantic, Connecticut 06357
Rocky Neck State Park is the ideal place to pick your own adventure. The site is home to sandy beaches, salt marsh viewing platforms, picnic areas, and trail systems. If you want to make a weekend out of your journey, they offer camping grounds and rental cabins. The CT kid-friendly hikes take you over 5 miles in total. The best trail for families is the Rocky Neck Loop. This trail is well-marked and features a 2.5-mile loop that takes you through a coastal thicket, a salt marsh, and grassy meadows surrounded by wildflowers.
Cockaponset State Forest
Cedar Lake Rd, Chester, Connecticut 06412
The Cockaponset State Forest provides several trails of varying lengths. One of the easiest is the Asylum Reservoir Loop, which takes you on a 1.4-mile loop and has less than 100 feet of elevation. During your time, you’ll see plenty of birds and find quiet spots where you can rest. The hikes welcome leashed dogs and is considered CT kid-friendly. You can also check out the West Woods Loop Trail at 2.1 miles, the Chatfield Trail Loop at 2.3 miles, and the Pattaconk Reservoir at 2.7 miles.
Guilford Town Green
Whitfield Street, Guilford, Connecticut 06437
Guilford Town Green includes paved, kid-friendly paths that hike you through the historic CT town as well as dirt trails that take you through the luscious forests of the area. The Town Green Path lasts for 0.6 miles and is ideal for people with mobility issues. The White Circle, Red, and Green Loop lasts for 1.9 miles and takes you through some pretty idyllic settings. Plus, you can enjoy local treats from Hen and Heifer or the Village Chocolatier when you’re done!
Ox Pasture Sanctuary
7 Canoe Road, Madison, Connecticut 06443
Ox Pasture Sanctuary is the ideal place for kids who simply love to explore. The area is a 5.5-acre parcel of land with a salt marsh surrounding it. There’s a short gravel path that takes you across the land. Keep your eyes open because you might see otters, muskrats, ospreys, herons, and more. Just make sure you look out for poison ivy and check for ticks immediately afterward.
Plan Your Next Family Fun Time With These Kid-Friendly Hikes In CT
With the right trail, your family can get out in nature and everyone can have fun. Check out these kid-friendly hikes in CT today so you can get out and explore!
Whether I’m providing local recommendations or working to provide gorgeous portraits, I love getting to be there to support Connecticut families. As a mom myself, I know how important it is to remember every minute of this time, and I want to be there to help you do it! If you’ve been considering booking some portraits with your family, I would love to have a conversation so you can decide if I’m the photographer for you. Contact me today to find out more!
