Connecticut: A Guide to the State Parks & Historic Sites

By Barbara Sinotte

This guide is a must for both visitors and residents who want to enjoy the wide range of recreational opportunities offered here. Connecticut measures 90 miles east to west, 75 miles north to south, with the Connecticut River cutting the state in half. It

• Language: English
• Publisher: Hunter Publishing
• Release date: Dec 11, 2010
• ISBN: 9781588439857

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Connecticut: A Guide to the State & National Parks

Barbara Sinotte

A Word About Hiking...

Hiking is by far the most popular activity in state and national parks. Most of the trails are clearly marked. Off-trail travel (commonly referred to as bushwhacking) is practiced by the more adventurous hikers – especially in the less-populated areas.

Trails in many state parks have been rated by taking into consideration the length of the hike and the degree of difficulty. If you are not sure which trails are appropriate for you and your family, talk to a park ranger. If you do not exercise regularly, start on beginner trails and increase your distances gradually. Trail maps are usually available either at the trail head or at the ranger station.

While trail signs vary widely, there are a few common markings that everyone should be familiar with. Periodic paint blazes on trees or rocks are clearly the most popular indication of a trail. Plastic markers are often nailed to trees or metal signs or attached to their own wooden posts. Where there are no trees, trails are often marked with piles of rocks.

Watch for trail markers and make a habit of looking for them – for your own safety and the safety of those hiking with you. It does not take away from the enjoyment of hiking and will soon become just another natural thing to do.

If you want to go bushwhacking, be careful. Make your first attempts in open areas with limited undergrowth – such as a desert area where the terrain is a little easier to tackle. Bushwhacking through areas of dense vegetation is for the more experienced hiker and should only be attempted with map, water, and compass in hand.

Whether you are bushwhacking or following marked trails, set a comfortable pace for yourself. You are not in a race and can better take in the surroundings if you don’t rush your excursion. Attempting to go too fast can ruin all the fun and burn you out before you are half-way through your hike. Stumbling or tripping is a clear sign that you may indeed need to slow down.

Remember to take frequent rest stops. Don’t wait for fatigue to tell you it’s time to slow down. A 10-