Great hiking trails near Mystic

Once you’ve toured the town, why not enjoy a beautiful hike nearby?

Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center (Mystic)

DPNC,  is a wildlife sanctuary with over 8 miles of hiking trails, a natural history museum (featuring live owls!), and an educational facility. 5 minute drive from downtown Mystic on the Stonington (Seaport) side of the river.  Take a short easy hike or go for an hour or two.  Moderate hills.  Visit website

Haley Farm (Noank)

Haley Farm is a Connecticut State Park preserving Colonial-era farmland. Great place for dog walking, biking and hiking.  It’s right in Noank, less than 10 minute drive from downtown Mystic.  Be sure to walk alongside the beautiful salt marsh lining Palmer Cover.  Mostly flat, some gentle hills. Visit website

Bluff Point State Park (Groton)

For dramatic vistas of Long Island Sound along a rugged rocky point, try Bluff Point in nearby Groton, less than 15 minutes away.  This is the last remaining significant piece of undeveloped land along the Connecticut coastline. It’s a wooded peninsula 1.5 miles long by one mile wide, and encompasses over 800 acres.  Great trails with moderate climbing, be sure to go all the way out to the bluff!  Spectacular view of Fishers Island. Visit website

Barn Island Wildlife Management Area (Stonington)

This beautiful trail network is lightly trafficked and has multiple loops that wind through saltwater inlets and estuaries. Mostly flat, beautiful views, right along a coastal preserve.  Ideal for hiking, birdwatching, dogs (on leash).  15 minute drive east of Mystic. Visit website

Bill Pryor is the founder of Mystic Revealed, a blog and tour site.  He runs a variety of guided-tours specializing in the history, food and local culture around Mystic. www.mysticrevealed.com  [email protected]