From portions of the Appalachian Trail to the vast network of paths on the Blue-Blazed Hiking Trails, hikers in Connecticut have countless options for stretching their legs and enjoying nature. When you're looking for a bit of fellowship while you hike, a number of hiking clubs are available in the state as well.
The Clubs
A handful of clubs gather regularly in Connecticut for hiking, camping, and general fellowship outdoors. Vermont's Green Mountain club has a presence in Connecticut, called the "Connecticut Section" of the Green Mountain Club. The club meets regularly for hikes between 3 and 6 miles long. The club also maintains a small portion of The Long Trail, which stretches from Massachusetts to Canada. The Appalachian Mountain Club also has a Connecticut chapter, which plans many events throughout the year including hikes, bicycle trips, camping trips, and more. Connecticut Hikes, meanwhile, plans mid-week and weekend hikes several times a month, typically between 2 and 10 miles long. The group, based in the Farmington Valley, Conn., also does occasional bike excursions.
The Trails
One of most rewarding things about joining a hiking club is finding new trails to explore. In Connecticut, dozens of state forests and state parks offer hundreds of miles of hiking in the backcountry. The Blue Blazed Hiking Trail system, linking 88 towns in Connecticut, offers more than 800 miles of hiking trails, right in many people's backyards. The trail system is maintained by a group of volunteers who love the outdoors, and is another group worthy of joining if you enjoy hiking. On top of that, about 50 miles of the Appalachian Trail winds through northwestern Connecticut, offering moderate and challenging hiking.
What to Bring
When hiking anywhere, a few basic safety items are always a good idea. Even when hiking with a group, make sure to carry items like water, energy bars, extra clothing, first aid kit, sunscreen, bug repellent, and an emergency blanket. During hunting season, from October through December, it's a good idea to take a few extra steps to protect yourself. During hunting season, try to wear something brightly-colored, and attach a bright collar or a bell to your dog to alert hunters to their presence. During those times, wearing grey, brown, and tan colors is not advisable.
Considerations
Before heading out on any hikes, be sure that you are in proper shape to stay with the group. Check with the group leader or on the club's web site to find out information on the length and difficulty of the hike and the general elevation you'll be climbing to. If you are not sure whether you can handle the length or difficulty of the hike, try getting in shape on your own before you go with the group. While groups do tend to have many members at different skill levels, you don't want to be the one holding them up--or worse, getting hurt on the trail.
Membership
Membership in hiking clubs in Connecticut varies depending on the club. For the nationally based organizations, membership typically costs between $20 and $40 and includes a regular newsletter and other extras. For smaller clubs, membership might only involve signing a form. Keep in mind that most clubs require you to sign a liability waiver, stating that the club takes no responsibility should you get hurt while hiking.
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