Top hiking spots for Quinnipiac students looking to explore

Hiking can be a great way to stay active and connect with friends. Some of these local spots also feature areas for picnicking, swimming, fishing and rock climbing. If you're someone who loves being outside and exploring the areas surrounding Quinnipiac, this list of top hiking trails and parks is perfect for you.

Hiking spots closest to Quinnipiac:

 

Students relax and take in the view at the top of Sleeping Giant State Park

Sleeping Giant State Park

Distance from the Mount Carmel Campus: Across the street

Located just a hop, skip and jump from Quinnipiac’s Mount Carmel Campus, Sleeping Giant State Park features more than 30 miles of trails to truly provide a unique experience every visit. The easiest trail is the tower trail which takes you on a 3.1-mile grated path up to the infamous tower which sits atop. This park is dog friendly and features a winding river along the base, perfect for a swim or to use one of the park's designated fishing areas.

 

A photo of a waterfall at Roaring Brook Falls in Cheshire, Connecticut

Roaring Brook Falls

Distance from the Mount Carmel Campus: 6.3 miles

If you are looking for more of a challenge, look no further than Roaring Brook Falls. Located in the town of Cheshire, this trail features a moderately difficult 1.5-mile loop. Open year-round, this is a dog friendly trail that features a steep ascent looping around to a beautiful waterfall.

 

The lake on a sunny day at West Rock Ridge in Hamden, Connecticut

West Rock Ridge State Park

Distance from the Mount Carmel Campus: 7.6 miles

Located in New Haven, Hamden and Woodbridge, visitors can choose from eight trails that feature a varying range of difficulties. West Rock Ridge offers opportunities for visitors to hike, bike, fish, boat, horseback ride and rock climb. With a wide range of difficulties, there is a trail for everyone, from the 7-mile-long Regicides Trail to Lake Wintergreen, as well as multiple caves ready to be explored.

 

Hiking spots if you are looking to explore farther:

 

An overview of Hubbard Park in Meriden, Connecticut

Hubbard Park

Distance from Mount Carmel Campus: 14 miles

Hubbard Park’s nine trails give hikers a variety of difficulties to choose from as they have options on all ends of the spectrum. Sitting in Meriden with trails ranging from 68 to 1,443 feet in elevation, there is truly something for everyone. Surrounding Mirror Lake, these trails offer many options and combinations at this aesthetic, dog-friendly park.

 

A waterfall flows at Indian Wells State Park

Indian Wells State Park

Distance from the Mount Carmel Campus: 18 miles

This hidden gem, located in Shelton, is home to a scenic waterfall that doubles as a refreshing swimming hole. In addition, this spot features a shaded picnic area right on the water’s edge. This state park features vast trails offering the opportunity to explore the nearby woods leading to great views.

 

A waterfall at Wadsworth Falls State Park in Middletown, Connecticut

Wadsworth Falls

Distance from the Mount Carmel Campus: 20 miles

Shaded by trees, these relatively flat trails offer multiple routes to explore both "little falls" and "big falls." Featuring designated picnic, fishing and swimming areas located along each route, one can easily find their way back to either of the scenic waterfalls. Located in Middlefield and Middletown, this is a popular spot for mountain bikers and fishing enthusiasts.

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