Nepaug State Forest

Nepaug State Forest is a protected woodland area near New Hartford covering 1,373 acres with diverse landscapes, forested slopes, and natural streams. The land includes numerous marked trails for different activities and forest recreation areas throughout the property.

This forest was established in 1942 by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection to protect natural resources and provide public recreation space. The creation reflected the state's commitment to preserving woodland for future generations.

The Tunxis Trail connects hikers to a larger network of walking paths across Connecticut and invites visitors to explore the region's outdoor tradition. This blue-blazed route has become part of the local hiking culture that spans generations.

Visitors can hike on marked trails including the Valley Outlook Trail, which leads to viewpoints with valley views and suits different fitness levels. The paths are well marked but can become muddy seasonally, so plan accordingly for your visit.

The Valley Outlook Trail leads hikers to elevated vantage points overlooking the Nepaug Valley and distant Yellow Mountain. These viewpoint locations reward those who take this specific route and are not immediately obvious to casual visitors.