While Connecticut has hundreds of hiking trails crisscrossing the state, the trails aren’t always suitable for little legs and little feet. So your preschooler may not be ready for Sleeping Giant’s blue trail or Southford Fall’s tower trail however, they will just love exploring the outdoors on these kid-friendly hikes we’ve uncovered. Here are some 1-mile-or-less hikes that are just enough for the youngest of hikers - teaching the invaluable lesson that it is the journey, not the destination. And maybe they’ll catch a frog or two.
Eisenhower Park – Milford
Tucked down the hill from the widely popular Bodie’s Place playground, Eisenhower Park is a hidden gem in New Haven County. With mostly-flat terrain to traverse, Eisenhower Park offers easy, kid-friendly trails perfect for the youngest hiker. There are always frogs to catch, turtles to discover, and streams to dip your toes in. Plus, there’s a wonderful playground and soon-to-be splashpad back at the top of the hill.
Eli Whitney Museum Trail - New Haven
Right behind the Eli Whitney Museum and across the iconic covered bridge starts a 3/4 of a mile trail loop circling wetlands and crossing footbridges -- perfect for children. The loop is mostly flat and offers plenty of spaces to go off the trail and explore East Rock Park.
Turkey Hill Preserve - Orange
Turkey Hill Preserve Loop is a 2 mile moderately trafficked loop trail located near Orange that is good for all skill levels and ages.
Wharton Brook State Park – North Haven
Shaded, flat and short. Those are the best qualities of a hike with a three year old. The trail around the pond at Wharton Brook State Park in North Haven is just that. Bring a picnic and your fishing pole.
Mondo Pond - Milford
The Mondo Ponds Nature Preserve includes five ponds and wetlands with walking trails on 36 acres of property on the west side of town. Be sure to bring your binoculars (and fishing pole) as Mondo Pond harbors some of the best bird-watching in the city. The main trail loop is a perfect under-an-hour loop for kids.
Common Ground - New Haven
Starting from Common Ground High School, The Old Oak Nature Trail Loop is about 30 minutes of flat and uphill hiking to get to Judge’s Cave and one for even the younger set. Trails are NOT stroller accessible. Once you reach the top, your kiddos will want to spend some time exploring the cave before making the 30 minute climb back down. (We suggest packing a picnic to enjoy at the top of the summit!)
Racebrook Tract - Woodbridge
Spanning 230 acres of meandering trails, the Racebrook Tract is a marvelous green space teeming with wildlife, songbirds and streams. A perfect way to spend your afternoon.
Giant Steps Trail - New Haven
Okay so this hike is certainly not as easy because it is actually quite steep. But it is only a quarter of a mile and the view of New Haven is worth the climb. Once at the top, your kiddos will love to run around in the large open field, perfect for picnics or kite flying.
