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Cockaponset State Forest (North)

The northern section of Cockaponset State Forest features a large network of densely forested trails, gavel/dirt forest roads with several roadside parking and access points.
Trail Activity
Hiking Walking Cross-country skiing Mountain biking Horseback riding
Length
10.5 miles, Network
Difficulty
Moderate, Advanced
Towns
Chester, Haddam
Surface
Packed Earth/Dirt, Gravel/Crushed Stone, Paved/Cement
Pets
Permitted on leash
Fees
No

Description

The northern section of Cockaponset State Forest is the forest section north of Route 9 in Haddam, CT. All trails within this section are open to multi-use non-motorized uses including hiking, mountain biking, and equestrian.

The Quinimay Trail runs through this section of the forest, connecting to the central section of Cockaponset State Forest. The complete Quinimay Trail extends from Westbrook to Higganum through the Cockaponset State Forest. This trail was officially recognized by the state of Connecticut in 2008 as a multi-use Bridle Trail. Look for the tan and green plastic multi-use markers placed above the colored trail blazes. The Quinimay Trail was conceived and is maintined by members of the Lower Connecticut River Valley Horsemen’s Club (LCRHVC), in cooperation with the Connecticut Forest & Park Association and the New England Mountain Bike Association (NEMBA). 

Other Information

History

Cockaponset, named after an Indian chief who's buried in the Ponset section of Haddam, is the second largest state forest in Connecticut. The development of this area for recreational purposes allows visitors to fully enjoy the attractiveness of the land, woods, and streams within the forest.

RuleS

  • The forest recreation areas are open from sunrise to sunset.
  • Other forest areas are open one-half hour before sunrise to one-half hour after sunset.
  • Pets on a leash are permitted in picnic areas and on hiking trails.
  • Pets are not allowed on the beach.

Trail Manager

This park is managed by the following CT DEEP Park Headquarters:

CT DEEP: Cockaponset State Forest
CT DEEP: Cockaponset State Forest
18 Ranger Road
Haddam, CT 06438
(860) 345-8521
View website

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Trailhead Information

To the Pattaconk Recreation Area From Middletown

Take Exit 6 off Route 9 South. Turn right off the exit ramp and go west on Route 148 for approximately 2 miles. Take a right onto Cedar Lake Road and drive approximately 2 miles. Take a left at the Pattaconk Lake sign.

To the Pattaconk Recreation Area From Old Saybrook

Take Exit 6 off Route 9 North. Turn left off the exit ramp and go west on Route 148 for approximately 2 miles. Take a right onto Cedar Lake Road and drive approximately 2 miles. Take a left at the Pattaconk Lake sign.

To the Ranger Headquarters From the North:

Take Exit 8 off Route 9 South. Turn left onto Beaver Meadow Road. Take the second right onto Ranger Road. The headquarters is on the left.

To the Ranger Headquarters From the South:

Take Exit 8 off Route 9 North. Turn right onto Beaver Meadow Road. Take the second right onto Ranger Road. The headquarters is on the left.

Click on a parking icon to get custom directions
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