Horse Guard State Park

Horse Guard State Park is a nature preserve covering about 105 acres of woodland and hiking trails in the town of Avon. The land remains relatively undeveloped, offering natural landscapes without built infrastructure.

Connecticut established this preserve in 1964 as part of a broader effort to protect natural lands for public use. The park emerged from growing conservation interests in the region during that period.

The park bears the name of the First Company Governor's Horse Guards, established in 1788 as the oldest mounted cavalry unit in the United States.

Access the park through a white-blazed trail starting near the Derrin House on West Avon Road. The path leads uphill to a rocky outcrop with open southern and western views from the top.

The hilltop reaches about 580 feet (177 m) in elevation, which provides surprisingly far-reaching views for the region. This height makes it a valuable vantage point despite the park's modest size.

Location: Hartford County

Inception: 1964

Website: https://portal.ct.gov/DEEP/State-Parks/Locate-Park-Forest/Other-State-Parks-and-Forests

GPS coordinates: 41.79944,-72.86472

Latest update: December 14, 2025 16:44