Hiking spots closest to Quinnipiac:
Sleeping Giant State Park
Distance from the Mount Carmel Campus: Across the street
Located just a hop, skip and jump from Quinnipiac’s Mount Carmel Campus, Sleeping Giant State Park features more than 30 miles of trails to truly provide a unique experience every visit. The easiest trail is the tower trail which takes you on a 3.1-mile grated path up to the infamous tower which sits atop. This park is dog friendly and features a winding river along the base, perfect for a swim or to use one of the park's designated fishing areas.
Roaring Brook Falls
Distance from the Mount Carmel Campus: 6.3 miles
If you are looking for more of a challenge, look no further than Roaring Brook Falls. Located in the town of Cheshire, this trail features a moderately difficult 1.5-mile loop. Open year-round, this is a dog friendly trail that features a steep ascent looping around to a beautiful waterfall.
West Rock Ridge State Park
Distance from the Mount Carmel Campus: 7.6 miles
Located in New Haven, Hamden and Woodbridge, visitors can choose from eight trails that feature a varying range of difficulties. West Rock Ridge offers opportunities for visitors to hike, bike, fish, boat, horseback ride and rock climb. With a wide range of difficulties, there is a trail for everyone, from the 7-mile-long Regicides Trail to Lake Wintergreen, as well as multiple caves ready to be explored.
Hiking spots if you are looking to explore farther:
Hubbard Park
Distance from Mount Carmel Campus: 14 miles
Hubbard Park’s nine trails give hikers a variety of difficulties to choose from as they have options on all ends of the spectrum. Sitting in Meriden with trails ranging from 68 to 1,443 feet in elevation, there is truly something for everyone. Surrounding Mirror Lake, these trails offer many options and combinations at this aesthetic, dog-friendly park.
Indian Wells State Park
Distance from the Mount Carmel Campus: 18 miles
This hidden gem, located in Shelton, is home to a scenic waterfall that doubles as a refreshing swimming hole. In addition, this spot features a shaded picnic area right on the water’s edge. This state park features vast trails offering the opportunity to explore the nearby woods leading to great views.
Wadsworth Falls
Distance from the Mount Carmel Campus: 20 miles
Shaded by trees, these relatively flat trails offer multiple routes to explore both "little falls" and "big falls." Featuring designated picnic, fishing and swimming areas located along each route, one can easily find their way back to either of the scenic waterfalls. Located in Middlefield and Middletown, this is a popular spot for mountain bikers and fishing enthusiasts.
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