Beth Lapin

Starting at the cul-de-sac on Cream Pot Road in Durham, moderate trails travel south along the ridge and through the woodlands. Two trails, the Mattabesett and Mica Ledges, run parallel with cross trails connecting them, to provide a loop trail if desired. A shorter hike to one of the overlooks and return provides another option.

With current snow cover, consider bringing poles and/or micro spikes/snow treads.

Descriptions, maps, and directions: https://madisonlandtrust.org/trails/mica-ledges-trail/

REMEMBER: Follow basic hiking guidelines: Wear good shoes, bring water and simple first aid kit, plus a copy/phone photo of trail map. Check the weather ahead of time, if you go alone, let others know where/when you’re going. All participation is at your own risk. Find a nearby restaurant or ice cream shop to reward yourself after your hike!

HIKING HINTS is a program of the MIDDLETOWN CT REC office. Follow them on Facebook.

A 1.3-mile linear trail follows an old railroad bed along the river and includes an interesting bridge. The walk can be extended in the opposite direction along Hanover Pond and behind the high school.

Descriptions, maps, and directions: https://www.meridenct.gov/visit/meriden-linear-trails/our-trails/quinnipiac-river-gorge-trail/

REMEMBER: Follow basic hiking guidelines: Wear good shoes, bring water and simple first aid kit, plus a copy/phone photo of trail map. Check the weather ahead of time, if you go alone, let others know where/when you’re going. All participation is at your own risk. Find a nearby restaurant or ice cream shop to reward yourself after your hike!

HIKING HINTS is a program of the MIDDLETOWN CT REC office. Follow them on Facebook.

This 100+ acre preserve owned by the East Haddam Land Trust, has a variety of trails that can be accessed from several parking areas. Waterfall, forest, and pond are some of the preserve’s highlights.

Descriptions, maps, and directions: https://www.easthaddam.org/trail-maps, https://rockfallfoundation.org/off-the-beaten-path-sheepskin-hollow-preserve/

REMEMBER: Follow basic hiking guidelines: Wear good shoes, bring water and simple first aid kit, plus a copy/phone photo of trail map. Check the weather ahead of time, if you go alone, let others know where/when you’re going. All participation is at your own risk. Find a nearby restaurant or ice cream shop to reward yourself after your hike!

HIKING HINTS is a program of the MIDDLETOWN CT REC office. Follow them on Facebook.

Almost 650 protected acres include a variety of trails, ranging from short and easy to more challenging. Multiple parking options provide access to these trails. Interesting aspects include a waterfall, section of the Blue Trail, and vistas.

Descriptions, maps, and directions: https://explorect.org/case-mountain/

REMEMBER: Follow basic hiking guidelines: Wear good shoes, bring water and simple first aid kit, plus a copy/phone photo of trail map. Check the weather ahead of time, if you go alone, let others know where/when you’re going. All participation is at your own risk. Find a nearby restaurant or ice cream shop to reward yourself after your hike!

HIKING HINTS is a program of the MIDDLETOWN CT REC office. Follow them on Facebook.