Beth Lapin

This former estate is a shoreline jewel which boasts a small natural area named after Bill Niering, a professor at a nearby Connecticut College (no dogs in the natural area), sandy and grassy trails along a broad expanse of lawn that was a former golf course, a short stretch of beach available for fishing (no swimming), and immaculately maintained gardens. Monarch butterflies stop to nectar on their way south this time of year.

Descriptions, maps, and directions:  https://ctparks.com/parks/harkness-memorial-state-park

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.