Connecticut Department of Energy & Environmental Protection

Emergency Burn Ban In Effect 10/26/24 - An emergency burn ban is now in effect for all Connecticut State Parks, Forests, and Wildlife Management areas, prohibiting the use of all outdoor grills, firepits, and campfires, and the kindling and use of flame outdoors. DEEP and local agencies are working to contain several active fires across the state. Please avoid all affected State Parks and Forests, as well as the blue-blazed Mattabesett Trail. The Enduro Trail in Voluntown and portions of North Stonington within the Pachaug State Forest are closed at this time. Rocky Neck State Park is also closed until further notice due to a brush fire. Please note that today's forest fire danger report remains at a 'very high' or 'extreme' level. More information about the current fire danger, burn ban and recommended safety measures can be found here

Recreational Trail Use Information

Man hiking with dog in backpack

 

State park and forest recreation areas operation hours - daily between sunrise and sunset.

What you can and cannot do on the trails:

  • Trails and service, logging and other roads are open to non-motorized, multiple use activities (foot travel, mountain biking, equestrian) unless posted closed.
  • Connecticut Blue-Blazed Hiking Trails and the National Park Service Appalachian Trail are limited to hiking except where they overlap a multiple use trail.
  • Public roadways in state parks and forests are open to registered motor vehicles (includes registered dirt bikes) and non-motorized multiple uses unless posted closed.
  • Effective January 1, 2006, riding an ATV on state or municipal property may result in charges of criminal trespass (Public Act 05-234).  At the current time, Connecticut does NOT have any public areas open to ATVs.
  • Registered dirt bikes can ride on the motorized trail at Pachaug State Forest or at the Thomaston Dam.
  • Trail building and maintenance is illegal unless authorized. To request permission to put in a new trail contact DEEP’s Trails Coordinator at 860-424-3938 or Kimberly.Bradley@ct.gov. For permission to perform trail maintenance contact the Park Supervisor.
  • After it rains, please be aware of fragile areas that should be avoided such as wetlands and steep slopes. For your safety and to prevent erosion and disruption of habitats always avoid travel through streams that have no bridges or stepping stones.

If you see an illegal activities please call the State Environmental Conservation Police (EnCon) at: 860-424-3333.

Essential for Safe Trail Use:

  • Always let others know where you are and when you expect to return.
  • Be aware where hunting is allowed and if hunting season is open. Wear bright orange for extra protection.
  • Remain on trails that are blazed.
  • Cyclists and motorized users yield to pedestrians and equestrians. Pedestrians yield to equestrians.
  • Park in designated areas only.
  • Keep your dogs on a leash.
  • Respect private property - when you are leaving State Land you may no longer have permission to recreate.
  • Plan your route! View a trail map  in advance (Maps may also be found at trail heads).
  • Stay clear of active forest management.  Roads and trails may be temporarily closed to accommodate tree thinning activities.