The best dog-friendly hikes and walks in Collis P. Huntington State Park
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Dog friendly hiking trails in Collis P. Huntington State Park span over 1,000 acres across Redding, Newtown, and Bethel, Connecticut. The park features a diverse landscape of second-growth mixed-hardwood forests, open fields, and swamps. Notable natural features include several ponds, a lagoon, and the 15-acre Lake Hopewell, contributing to varied scenery for hikers. The terrain also exhibits glacially carved features and classic New England trails with roots and rocks.
Best dog friendly hiking trails in Collis P. Huntington State Park
- The most popular dog friendly hiking route is Red Trail to Red/White Trail Loop, a 5.8 miles (9.3 km) trail that takes 2 hours 34 minutes to complete. This moderate route features an elevation gain of 171 meters.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Blue and Parks Pond Loop, a moderate 2.1 miles (3.4 km) path. This trail offers views of Parks Pond and includes a 69-meter elevation gain.
- Local hikers also love the Rogers Park Pond Trail, a 0.8 miles (1.3 km) trail leading through forested areas near Rogers Park Pond, often completed in about 19 minutes.
- Hiking in Collis P. Huntington State Park is defined by mixed-hardwood forests, open fields, and several ponds, including Lake Hopewell. The extensive trail network offers options for easy and moderate ability levels.
- The routes in Collis P. Huntington State Park are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 5.0 stars from 9 reviews. More than 100 hikers have used komoot to explore Collis P. Huntington State Park's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 8, 2026
1
hikers
9.30km
02:34
170m
150m
The Red Trail to Red/White Trail Loop offers a robust hiking experience within the Trout Brook Valley State Park Reserve. You'll navigate through dense forest, with the Red/White section standing out as one of the preserve's rockiest trails, demanding careful footing. Your efforts are rewarded with scenic views overlooking The Connecticut Golf Club and Black Rock Turnpike, providing a blend of woodland immersion and open vistas.
This moderate 5.8-mile (9.3 km) loop, with 561 feet (171 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 2 hours and 34 minutes to hike. Be sure to wear appropriate footwear for the challenging terrain. Checking trail conditions before you go is always a good idea, especially after rain, to ensure a safe and enjoyable outing.
This trail is a great choice if you're looking for a solid workout and a chance to explore the varied natural beauty of a Connecticut state park reserve. The preserve setting means you're immersed in nature, away from urban distractions, making it a notable option for those seeking a true escape into the outdoors.
1.26km
00:19
0m
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An easy 0.8-mile hike around Rogers Park Pond in Danbury, offering picturesque views and a peaceful urban escape.
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4
hikers
3.41km
00:58
70m
60m
Embark on the Blue and Parks Pond Loop for a refreshing hike through Tarrywile Park in Danbury, Connecticut. This moderate route spans 2.1 miles (3.4 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 226 feet (69 metres), making it a perfect quick escape into nature. You can expect to complete the loop in about 57 minutes, winding past the tranquil Parks Pond where you might spot fish, snapping turtles, or even swans and blue herons. The trail offers varied terrain, from smooth paths around the pond to sections that climb hillsides on old woods roads.
Planning your visit is straightforward, as parking is readily available within Tarrywile Park. While the trail is generally accessible, be aware that certain sections, especially around Back Pond, can become rocky or swampy. This is particularly true after heavy rainfall or during periods of high water. Always check local conditions before you head out to ensure a pleasant and smooth experience on the path.
As you hike, keep an eye out for the historic Tarrywile Dairy Farm Silo, which adds a unique touch to the scenic landscape. The route sometimes aligns with the longer Ives Trail, offering a glimpse into the broader network of paths in the area. This loop provides a wonderful opportunity to enjoy diverse natural surroundings and a bit of local history, all within a manageable timeframe.
9
hikers
5.42km
01:33
120m
120m
Moderate hike. Great for any fitness level. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
1
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Once an active dairy farm and fruit orchard, the park now hosts 21 miles of hiking trails, 2 ponds, a lake, and several picnic areas (also a mansion and a castle!). Open from sunrise to sunset year round, for FREE. Here is the park website: https://tarrywile.com/the-park/
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Tarrywile Park spans 722 acres, with roughly 21 miles of hiking trails, two ponds, and a lake. Once a dairy farm and fruit orchard, there are several picnic areas and historic landmarks, including the Tarrywile Mansion and Hearthstone Castle. Open year-round during daylight hours, the park is a beautiful spot for a lovely hike and a picnic anywhere on the grounds.
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This lovely bench is right along the trail, making it the ideal spot for a short break or a trailside snack. There's plenty of wildlife, and if you're lucky, you may even spot a deer while you're here. Dogs are welcome; just be sure your pup stays on a leash while you relax and listen to the quiet of your surroundings.
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Nestled in Easton, the 730-acre Trout Brook Valley State Park Reserve offers over 20 miles of secluded wooded and wetland trails perfect for mountain biking escapades. Thanks to Aspetuck Land Trust and activists like Paul Newman, this natural haven was spared from developers in 1999
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Nice pond surrounded by woodlands. You cannot swim in the pond, but there is a picnic area nearby that you can use to take a break and enjoy great views of the water.
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Rogers Park is a 56-acre public park, that has a multipurpose turf field, a children's playground, the War Memorial building and a pond with a hiking/nature trail.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many dog-friendly hiking trails are available in Collis P. Huntington State Park?
Collis P. Huntington State Park offers several excellent dog-friendly hiking trails. This guide features 4 routes specifically curated for you and your canine companion, ranging from easy strolls to more moderate adventures.
What kind of terrain can I expect on dog-friendly hikes in Collis P. Huntington State Park?
The park's dog-friendly trails feature a diverse landscape, including second-growth mixed-hardwood forests, open fields, and swamps. You'll encounter classic New England trails that can be tight, twisty, and scattered with roots and rocks, often enclosed by mountain laurel. Wider carriage roads are also present, offering smoother walking surfaces. While much of the park is relatively level after an initial descent, some fire roads include more challenging climbs.
Are there any easy dog-friendly trails suitable for shorter walks or less experienced hikers?
Yes, for an easier walk with your dog, consider the Rogers Park Pond Trail. This route is just over 1.2 kilometers long with minimal elevation gain, making it perfect for a relaxed outing.
What are some moderate dog-friendly loop trails in the park?
For a moderate loop experience, the Blue and Parks Pond Loop offers a pleasant 3.4-kilometer hike around scenic ponds. Another option is the Red Trail to Red/White Trail Loop, which is longer at approximately 9.3 kilometers and features more varied terrain and elevation changes.
What are the best times of year to hike with my dog in Collis P. Huntington State Park?
Collis P. Huntington State Park is beautiful year-round. Spring brings lush greenery and blooming mountain laurel, while autumn offers stunning fall foliage. Summer is great for enjoying the ponds, but be mindful of heat and humidity. Winter can be picturesque, but trails may be icy or snowy, so appropriate gear for both you and your dog is recommended.
Are there any specific attractions or points of interest along the dog-friendly trails?
While hiking with your dog, you can enjoy the park's natural beauty, including its numerous ponds, a lagoon, and the prominent Lake Hopewell with its wooded island. Keep an eye out for the unique life-like sculptures of bears and wolves near the park entrance, created by Anna Hyatt Huntington. There's also a miniature stone lighthouse on an island in Lake Hopewell, a charming historical remnant.
What do other hikers say about the dog-friendly trails in Collis P. Huntington State Park?
The dog-friendly trails in Collis P. Huntington State Park are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the park's peaceful atmosphere, well-maintained paths, and the beautiful natural scenery, especially around the ponds, making it a favorite spot for walks with their dogs.
Is there a longer, more challenging dog-friendly hike available?
For a longer and more challenging dog-friendly hike, consider the Red Trail to Red/White Trail Loop. This moderate route spans approximately 9.3 kilometers and includes over 170 meters of elevation gain, offering a good workout for you and your dog through varied forest landscapes.
Are there any trails that pass by water features where my dog can cool off?
Many of the trails in Collis P. Huntington State Park, such as the Blue and Parks Pond Loop and the Rogers Park Pond Trail, wind around the park's numerous ponds and Lake Hopewell. These offer opportunities for your dog to enjoy the water, but always ensure they are leashed and that swimming is permitted in specific areas.
What should I know about parking when visiting Collis P. Huntington State Park with my dog?
Collis P. Huntington State Park provides ample parking facilities. It's always a good idea to arrive earlier on busy weekends to secure a spot, especially if you're planning a longer hike. There are no specific permits required for dogs, but always keep them leashed and clean up after them.
Are there any specific rules or regulations for dogs in Collis P. Huntington State Park?
When hiking with your dog in Collis P. Huntington State Park, it's essential to keep them on a leash at all times for their safety and the enjoyment of other visitors and wildlife. Please remember to bring waste bags and clean up after your pet to help maintain the park's natural beauty.
Most popular routes in Collis P. Huntington State Park
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