Are you bored of the same old trails and looking for a new adventure? Do you want to explore one of Connecticut’s hidden gems and witness some stunning views? Do you have what it takes to hike 11.7 miles of challenging terrain and enjoy every minute of it? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you need to check out the Saugatuck Trail. This trail is not for the faint of heart, but it will reward you with an unforgettable experience that will make you fall in love with nature all over again.

The Saugatuck Trail is part of the Centennial Watershed State Forest, a 15,300-acre protected area that surrounds the Saugatuck Reservoir, a man-made lake that provides drinking water to several towns in Fairfield County. The trail follows the shoreline of the reservoir for most of its length, offering spectacular views of the water and the hills beyond. Along the way, you’ll also encounter diverse landscapes, such as rock formations, wetlands, streams, and forests. You’ll also see a variety of wildlife, such as deer, turkeys, squirrels, chipmunks, birds, and maybe even a bald eagle or two.

But don’t let the beauty fool you. If you plan on walking the entire Saugatuck Trail it is a tough hike that requires stamina, endurance, and preparation. It has some steep and rocky sections that will test your legs and lungs. It also crosses several roads that you’ll need to be careful of. It takes an average of 4 h 54 min to complete the trail one way, so you’ll need to plan ahead and bring plenty of water and snacks. You’ll also need to obtain an annual permit from the Aquarion Water Company to access the area, which costs $10 for individuals or $15 for families. You can apply online or by mail. Dogs are not allowed on this trail, so you’ll have to leave your furry friends at home.

The trail can be accessed from either end, but most hikers start from the parking area on Davis Hill Road in Weston and end at Black Rock Turnpike in Easton. You’ll need to arrange a shuttle or a car drop to get back to your starting point, or you can hike back the same way for a longer challenge. Along the way, you’ll encounter several trail junctions and markers, so make sure to follow the blue blazes and signs for the Saugatuck Trail.

Some of the highlights of the trail include:

• The Saugatuck Falls (we did a video here as well), a small but scenic waterfall that cascades over a rock ledge near the beginning of the trail. It’s a great spot to cool off and take some photos.
• The Hemlock Reservoir, a smaller lake that feeds into the Saugatuck Reservoir. You’ll cross a wooden bridge over its outlet stream and enjoy some nice views of the water.
• The Saugatuck Overlook, a rocky outcrop that offers a panoramic view of the Saugatuck Reservoir and the surrounding hills. It’s a great spot to take a break and admire the scenery.
• The Saugatuck Universal Access Trail, a wheelchair accessible trail that leads to a platform overlooking the reservoir. It’s about 500 feet long and located near the end of the Saugatuck Trail. It’s open from sunrise to sunset and free to use.

The Saugatuck Trail is a wonderful hike for any season, but especially beautiful in the fall when the leaves change color. You’ll also see a variety of wildflowers in the spring and summer. Just remember to respect the environment and leave no trace behind.

So if you’re ready for an adventure, grab your hiking boots and head to the Saugatuck Trail. You won’t regret it!