Hand-Picked Hikes: Favorite Trails From Those Who Know
We reached out to veteran hikers throughout our area to get their recommendations for trails they wouldn't want you to miss. If you need some gear before you get on the paths, check out our story on where to outfit yourself for adventure.
LITCHFIELD COUNTY
Lion's Head, Salisbury, CT (Appalachian Trail)
Dan Bolognani is Executive Director, Upper Housatonic Valley National Heritage Area.
Lion's Head, a 4.1-mile out-and-back trail, offers stunning views with just a modest amount of hiking, and is located on the 52.3 mile Connecticut section of the Appalachian Trail near the Massachusetts border. This trail is great for birding and hiking. You can access Lion's Head from the Bunker Hill Road entrance, which offers a moderately steep climb to the popular lookout point.
DUTCHESS COUNTY
Mills Norrie State Park to Mills Mansion, Staaasburgh, NY
Lalita Malik volunteers with many hiking organizations, leading hikes, maintaining trails, and serving as a trailhead ambassador.
This easy trail hugs the Hudson River. The 4.7-mile loop starts at the Norrie Point Environmental Center. Walk along the marina to the white-blazed River Trail on your left. The trail turns right and follows the river north. Soon views of the Catskills appear. When you see the Esopus Lighthouse, turn right and follow the cove towards Mills Mansion. Continue by the river to the Powerhouse (picnic shelter). Head toward Mills Mansion for big views across the river.
Parsons Marsh. Photo: Gabrielle Murphy
BERKSHIRE COUNTY
Parsons Marsh, Lenox, MA
Jenny Hansell is president of the Berkshire Natural Resources Council.
Not everyone wants, or is able, to clamber over rocks and roots at the top of a mountain. One of BNRC's most beloved trails is its shortest, easiest hike: the accessible boardwalk at Parsons Marsh. It's a spectacular site for birding — ospreys nest there and in the spring, the warblers are everywhere. From the parking lot, visitors walk a hard-packed path through a meadow carpeted with native wildflowers. From there, the boardwalk winds into the forested wetland, with benches at the halfway point and the end.
COLUMBIA COUNTY
Ooms Conservation Area, Chatham, NY
Rebecca Walker is director of communications for the Columbia Land Conservancy.
Experience the essence of Columbia County's landscape: rolling hills, grassland, and Catskill Mountain views. Take the Pond Loop Trail, and open, grassy path, one mile to the gazebo at the top of the hill.
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