Tunxis Trail

Description

The southern trailhead of the Tunxis Trail starts in Southington, running north to the Massachusetts state line. The trail is interrupted near the Wolcott-Bristol line, but resumes in Plymouth. The Tunxis Trail and its myriad of adjoining trails offer a wide breath of loop hiking options and traverses a variety of terrain and landscapes. 

The southern end of the Tunxis Trail is typified by woodland paths that travel through the top and sides of the Central Valley's western wall. The trail offers several outstanding views, including Julian's Rock and Norton Outlook. The side trails in this southern region vary in length from a half-mile to just under five miles and travels over diverse terrain. The mid-region of the Tunxis Trail is primarily in the Town of Burlington. Features of the trail system in this region include the challenging Mile of Ledges, the historic Tory Den, connecting trails to other trail systems in Sessions Woods Wildlife Management Area and Nassahegon State Forest, and opportunities to explore lands protected by the Burlington Land Trust. There are ample opportunities for loop hikes, longer distance hiking and shorter family rambles. 

The northern section of the Tunxis Trail traverses some of the most beautiful woodlands that can be found in Connecticut. Highlights include the Indian Council Caves and Pine Mountain, where 180-degree views provide prime hawk-watching during spring and fall migration. The trail crosses and sometimes follows several woods roads and old fire roads, passing along picturesque mountain brooks. Located primarily on Metropolitan District Commission (MDC) lands and Tunxis State Forest, the trail in this region climbs steeply near its northern terminus to meet the Connecticut-Massachusetts state line and crosses for a short distance into Granville State Forest in Massachusetts.

Other Information

Notice a trail problem? Report it to the Connecticut Forest and Park Association (CFPA).

Rules

• In the northern region, the Tunxis Trail passes by or over a number of gated roads on the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (CT DEEP) and Metropolitan District Commission (MDC) lands.
• Gates are locked in the winter when roads are impassable, usually from mid-December to mid-May. Most of these roads, however, are not open to the public at any time of year.
• Please respect and abide by all posted signs and regulations.
• Hunting is permitted in State Forests intersected by this trail.
• Please use caution and wear orange during hunting season.

Trail Manager