We needed a break on our drive from MA to NJ and this was just about the mid-point for us and just off the highway. It is a pretty state park for a short visit if you're in the area. Lots of college students throughout the park from nearby Quinnipiac University. There are plenty of open space, picnic tables and trails for everyone to enjoy. Lots of different trail options but the tower trail is the most popular. Not much shade on the tower trail and a fairly decent elevation change in a short distance. Make sure to check the weather and bring water. Beautiful views from the highest point in the park and you can go inside the tower. read more

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This was such a nice and beautiful hike! We went here end of October when foliage season was coming to an end quickly. We got to see amazing views and lots of foliage. The hike was not bad and it was super busy. Huge parking lot and lots of people that day. The views at the tower were awesome and it's definitely a nice spot for pictures. A local gem. read more

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Some of the best hiking in the state, something for everyone. Gentle walk on a well groomed fire road or a full out trek up a Rocky Mountain side. Great place for a picnic or an outdoor pa read more

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Beautiful state park with nice hiking trails the folks they are friendly and accommodating

Pretty awesome hiking spot, with great views and good signage. Some parks don't keep trail markings clean and visible, so getting lost can be easy. My only problem was that CT residents could park for free and New Yorkers, like my girlfriend and I, had to pay $15 (our license plate gave it away). The "tower" was a little underwhelming - like 3 stories with barely a view? For better scenery, follow the blue trail! read more

Sleeping Giant State Park - Parks Near Me - Hamden, Connecticut

Do you ever feel like escaping to the exhilarating freedom that nature offers? I love coming to Sleeping Giant State Park and try to make it a part of my weekend activity schedule. As one of the most popular state parks in Connecticut, there are lots of trails and levels of difficulty. I typically take the Tower Trail, which is about 1.2 miles and goes uphill on a wide gravel stretch. The gravel can be slippery at times, but you are safe from ticks and heavy brush. The trail is popular on the weekends, and there are a lot of families and children there as well as couples and friends, all enjoying a nice time. I used to come here with my dogs, but a lot of people don't keep their dogs on leashes, which is typical in a many parks. I have just as much fun coming here alone as with a friend, though I'm willing to explore trails I'm unfamiliar with when with friends. Another one of my favorite trails is the Purple Trail, which goes by the river and leads into the quarry area, which has a special feel, what with the historic aspect of the leftover quarry. You'll want to take photos if you go on this trail. There are a lot of lesser-known trails you can explore, along with secluded areas. I was exploring with a friend, and we found ourselves on a historic trail that joined up with the Tower Trail (don't forget to bring a map or use one on the internet so that you don't get lost). The historic trail used to have a private house, parts of which were used to build the fort at the top of the Tower Trail. This is to say that there's a lot of history in this park. Once I was sitting on a rock watching the vultures, and some men were talking. One of them told me that his dad proposed to his mom at this very spot a generation ago. So yes, this is a spot where people will start conversations with you, and you get a sense of community while enjoying a beautiful scenic hike. If you want a break from your day and to reap the benefits of nature, then this is definitely a place you will want to visit. read more

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Quite the boring trail until you reach the top and see the cool tower, therefore I would recommend this for first timers or anyone purely needing to get steps in. read more

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My word, what a spot! Whether you walk, hike, or climb, there's a trail for you. The tower path is direct as can be, and leads to the stone "castle" and views of the LI Sound. Hiking shaded woods, rough trap rock, and hugging bald stone all in one, the blue trail is a little bit of everything that'll lead you to top of the Giant's Head. Part of the purple trail is tucked along the babble of the Quinnipiac River. COVID-19 era, on the weekend, ARRIVE EARLY! If you hope to distance you can't sleep in since this lovely parks is quite a popular one. Expect shark cars circling the parking lot hoping to snatch up your vacated spot. Populated as the park is, we've seen deer, snakes, a variety of birds, and colorful insects. Bring your boots if you're taking the red or blue, bring your mask, and most importantly, your camera! read more

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I love, love, love Sleeping Giant! I live in Florida, but have been coming here since I was a child. This park is always clean and full of happy hikers! This was my first time going probably in 10 years and it was everything I remembered and more. My parents and I walked at a leisurely rate and reached the top probably in 45 min. There is a castle at the top that you can climb (there are ramps, no steps) and have a beautiful view of the surrounding area. Definitely don't skip this on your trip! Great for kids and families--not very steep at all. Also lots of doggos on the trail :) read more

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I love hiking and this was such a fantastic place to go ! I came here on a little hiking date. I think I was expecting more of a climb but it went really easily and quickly! On top there's a little castle structure, and some outcropping rocks to chill and watch the view. Very romantic place. Jamie spotted lots of hawks :) read more

I thought sleeping giant was fine! First, the parking was fine. There was a lot of parking. And the parking lot was very easy to find. It is right across from Quinnipiac university. So this would be a good spot to go to if you were at Quinnipiac for some reason. The map was super complicated, because there are about 9 different trails you can take. I thought that was a little overwhelming. The good news is that the trails were well marked. There were also a lot of people there. I did not feel like I was alone and relaxed in the wilderness. I felt like I was on a crowded trail! And it was like only a Wednesday. So I wouldn't come here if you are looking for peace and quiet. As for the actual park, I was expecting the views to be better. I don't have any pictures because I really didn't feel that inspired! However, I did like a lot of the ice and plants that I saw. read more

What an amazing time we had. Being able to have a change of pace and do something a little out of the ordinary. If you are not used to it; it may be a bit of a challenge but it is so worth the effort. Along the trail you are able to connect with nature and all it's beauty. The foliage was beautiful and when you get to the top the scenery is amazing. Taking the trail to the tower is about a 1.6 mile trek but as long as you stay on the path you will be fine. They're plenty of people on the pathway so you don't feel lost. I recommend if your not used to the hike, find a stick along the way to help your climb (very helpful). Feel free to go at your own pace and soak in all the sites. As you are walking there will be plenty of picture taking opportunities. Oh and the final recommendation, dress appropriately because you will work up a sweat. read more

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It has to be one of the cleanest parks I've ever been to. Great signage, restroom options at the bottom and the top, and choose your adventure style options to get to the castle. Our family with two little kids, age 3 and 6, opted for a harder route up, but took the easy way down. The harder route was a bit much for the three-year-old, but made the work out for me a little more challenging and fun. Are six-year-old made it up The castle the top was really cool, loved that they enforce mask where in these Covid times and like I said earlier, surprised by how clean it is. No graffiti- it was super surprising. We definitely recommend anybody do this. read more

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My Favorite Hiking Spot in CT I was so sad when that Tornado hit & closed The Giant down. Now I am so glad it is back open. Whenever friends visit from out of town or out of country I try and bring them here, weather permitting. Why is Sleeping Giant the best? -Super Well Maintained and Marked Trails -A Bunch of Trail Options from Easy to Challenging -The View from Top of the Blue Trail of Quinnipiac is breath taking -The River Walk -The Castle is pretty cool I have been coming since I was a kid and even when I move out of CT I know I will be back to visit this magical spot. Now with CT parks being free I don't even have to street park here anymore so it's even better. Sleeping Giant Rocks **Note: Pictures Taken on Multiple Trips** read more

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The park is kept clean with plenty of trails to explore, whether you are ok with short and popular to a good couple of hours of solitude, it's all available at Sleeping Giant. Get out and enjoy nature with quite a few nice views along the way. read more

My favorite spot to hike near New Haven...tons of trails to choose from, everything from steep/difficult to the easy tower trail. The purple trail (veers towards left at the driveway/entrance) has some gorgeous river views and a small dam where people sit with their fishing poles. It's also a great spot for dogs to cool off in the water. Only negative here is the parking...although free in the off season (before Memorial Day and after the end of October), the adjacent street parking can be limited, especially on weekends when the weather is beautiful. read more

Such a beautiful spot year round. My favorite trail is the Blue but be prepared to work a little bit for that view. More than 50% is just climbing rocks. I did the hike with a large dog and he struggled a bit to find his footing. Be careful if you go on a foggy day as the views on top are obstructed. Fall is my favorite time for Sleeping Giant as you'll get a full taste of New England. For an easy hike with kids check out the castle trail. Great views and easy climb. read more

Sleeping Giant State Park - Parks Near Me - Hamden, Connecticut

This park is one of the best state parks in Connecticut! Highly recommend! Excellent choice of trails varying in distance and difficulty. read more

PSA PSA! Sleeping Giant is open once again--hooray!!! After the last storm in 2018, Sleeping Giant closed its doors for a good while to restore their beloved hiking grounds. They were closed for what seemed like forever! Recently, they reopened their doors and I just had to make my visit before the summer's end. Parking is available in their private lot. I believe there is a small fee during the summer season, but you can easily save a few bucks and find streetside parking on the road just outside the park entrance. Just be sure to read the signs. The street can get filled up quickly, but the extra walk isn't so bad. Sleeping Giant offers a variety of trails, ranging in difficulty. Being someone who is always up for a challenge, I usually gravitate towards the Blue or Tower trails. This time around, my hiking buddy and I picked the Blue and embarked on our trek, equipped with plenty of water and snacks to keep us company. What's unique about Sleeping Giant is that you get a variety of terrain. The Blue trail forces you to scramble up rocksides for a good portion of it. At the very top are some breathtaking vistas of the surrounding Hamden area including the valley, neighboring mountains and the sprawling Quinnipiac campus. If you dare, you can make your way to some rocky outcroppings for an even better view of the ravine below. We picked one of these lookout points to serve as our picnic spot and soaked in the sun and the views while snacking on our on-the-go charcuterie--ha! It was the perfect summer afternoon date. The hike down was a lot easier and the whole trip, plus eating time, was about an hour and a half. Thanks, Sleeping Giant, for the memories! We'll be back! read more

I am a novice hiker, and this was perfect for me! There are several more difficult trails for those with more hiking experience, but the trail I dod was well maintained and had other hikers but was not too crowded. Also the small castle at the top was cool to see and rest at before going back down the trail. read more

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Lots of trails to walk on some for more experienced hikers and some are very easy. I would recommend for anyone to go it's about 1.5 miles up to the castle and another 1.5 back. Great walk and a great view up top! read more

Nice clean park with beautiful views and clearly marked trails. Came the first weekend of November on a saturday. Got here around 130 pm and the parking lot was pretty busy. Had to circle around the whole lot once because there were absolutely no spots, but on our second round, we were lucky enough to see someone go into their car. Parking was free at this time of the year. U have to pay a fee until the end of october. I've never really hiked before, but we decided to do the blue trail. It's pretty difficult with alot of climbing but with the occasional rest, it's not too bad. Alot of scenic areas and ledges. Mostly a mix of yellow/brown/green foliage at this time. Not brilliant but still nice. There were quite alot of people on this trail. From the parking lot until the castle on the blue trail, it took us about 2.5 hours. We took quite alot of rest stops. When we got to the castle, we took some pictures and took the tower trail back down. Took us like 30 min. To get back to the parking lot. Tower trail was wide and easy to walk on. Alot of people took their dogs here. Alot of chipmunks running around. The weather was according to weather.com around 55 degrees. I wore a Spyder jacket and it eventually got too hot. Don't wear too much clothes when u go hiking the blue trail lol. At least 2 bottles of water per person. My sister finished a whole bottle before we even reached the castle. Overall, I had a fun day today. Hike was at a good difficulty for me. read more

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My husband took me here on Mother's Day. What an amazing place. The inside is closed and there are some renavations going on around the grounds but there are trails all around the grounds to hike along. Great getaway. Lots of history and beautiful scenery. read more

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my personal favorite state park in ct! the hikes are stunning with great views, waterfalls, and more! I recommend doing more than just the tower trail to get a full feel of the park. read more

I grew up going to this state park. Only recently have I rediscovered all the beautiful and challenging hiking trails. My favorite one is the blue trail, which takes you up a fun rocky scramble (bad if you're scared of heights, good if you want to feel like Spiderman) and gives you some stunning views of Quinnipiac and Hamden. Following blue up further takes you to the rock tower, which is a real treat for kids and the young-at-heart. Panoramic views of Hamden, and lots of giant boulders that kids go nuts for. Seriously, this place was swarmed with kids. Surprisingly, this is only half the park, as it goes on and on. The variety of trails and activities (picnic tables, pavilions, little streams for the kiddies to play in) ensures there's just as much to do the tenth time here as the first. We like to take the red trail back down from a little bit before the tower, as it spits you out further down Mount Carmel Avenue. Speaking of that, the parking situation is the only thing that annoys me about this place. If you choose to park in their parking lot, it's $9 for registered CT vehicles and $15 for out-of-state vehicles. This is enforced on weekends and holidays between Memorial Day through the end of October. My boyfriend and I didn't feel like paying $15 for his out-of-state car so we did as others did and parked along Mount Carmel Avenue for free. It's about a 5 to 10-minute walk to the park entrance, depending on where your car is, but as I mentioned earlier, you can just choose to end your hike closer to your car to save yourself the extra distance. The other downside to this park is that it's one of the more well-known state parks, so expect to share your hiking trail with a lot of people during the warmer months. read more

Great place to go for a hike. They have quite a few different trails for everyone. I'm not a very experienced hiker so u went up the the Tower trail, about 3 miles (to and from combined). Once up at the tower the view was really lush and green so I couldn't see much of the city but a beautiful view nonetheless. The tower itself is not very big but worth checking out. If you go PLEASE make sure to get back to your car well before sun down or you will not be able to get out of the park. Their gate closes at sunset so don't risk getting stuck in the parking lot overnight. Wear comfortable shoes! read more

The tower trail is really fun but definitely tiring! I do wish there were more benches on the trail for people to stop and take a break. It's very well kept and clear, and the tower at the top is always impressive. read more

Our go to place to hike. This park is so much more than the tower trail. I've hiked every trail. There are awesome views on many of the trails. read more

Perhaps one of my favorite places to hike in Connecticut. The park has a variety of trails and difficulty. There are numerous picturesque views and picnicking areas. Quick tip: Park on the Chestnut Lane entrance to avoid traffic and parking fee for non-Hamden residents. read more

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For pictures and video visit IG: @Jessicas_Travelbook link in BIO. The trail shown on the video involves climbing but that's the fun part for us. Highly recommend to go accompanied if you're a beginner. read more

Sleeping Giant State Park - Tower - Parks Near Me - Hamden, Connecticut

If you haven't already visited, Sleeping Giant State Park is located at 200 Mount Carmel Avenue in Hamden, directly across from Quinnipiac University. Open year-round from 8 am to sunset, it's a popular recreational spot for hiking, nature trails, and picnicking. As one of Connecticut's most popular state parks, definitely try the Quinnipiac Trail. It is one of the original - no, the original - Blue Blazed Trail. Children and parents alike love the hike up to the summit because there is a lookout tower that resembles a castle - with arches and turrets. The views of New Haven are grand. There is a a designated trout park as well as picnic areas that are alive with weekend revelers. At its peak, the large open-air fieldstone building is 739 feet above sea level, the highest point of the 1,500-acre park. When it's less busy, you'll be sure to find residents and visitors alike rock climbing, snowshoeing, and bird-watching. There are even trails specifically designed for horseback riding and cross-country skiing located on the lower reaches of the Giant, and fishing is allowed in the Mill River. Beware of the many trail-blazed heads, as there are numerous colors and routes, very easy to get lost. They all vary in length and difficulty too so be safe and bring a map, or download AllTrails or PocketRanger to help you navigate! In the summer, there is a charge to park in the main lot; many people park on Mount Carmel Avenue for free. read more

Sleeping Giant State Park - Parks Near Me - Hamden, Connecticut

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I absolutely love this park!! The trails are well marked and maintained, and every time I go, I discover a new trail. The main gravel trail is the best trail to check out on the first go, unless you don't want to see a lot of other people. Definitely take the gravel trail or blue trail (which is apparently the most challenging) to the tower so you can get some fantastic views! I'm still figuring out which trail is my favorite, but really, any one you take is beautiful. The park is pet friendly, and I see couples with kids all the time. After Memorial Day until the end of summer, they charge for parking. It's free on weekdays, and open from 8am to sunset. read more

$9 to park for in state license plates. You could always park on the street to avoid paying but the shoulders are very small so I wouldn't do it. There are several trails organized by colors. Fun activity. Be ready to spend at least an hour and a half in the woods Not nearly as buggy as you would expect but I would recommend wearing bug spray. The walk along the water is beautiful and so calming. People of all ages can enjoy this great park. read more

A really great park! The trail up to the castle wasn't too rigorous and was definitely within the average person's ability to hike up. After you get to the peak, you can enjoy the views from the castle landmark! This was a very fun, beginner-friendly hike for me and my group to enjoy. read more

Love it here! Clean bathrooms at bottom and top of mountain, lots of parking, definitely more enjoyable when you don't have to pay the $9 to park! I think that's steep, but I'm sure it's not the individual park's decision to charge that much. Go before memorial day weekend to park for free! read more

The trail is completely gorgeous all times of the year, and has a different difficulty for all hikers depending on the path you choose. In terms of the main path, the trail is fairly flat with occasional small grades and well pathed. This is perfect for hill runners! The only annoyance (and the only thing keeping the park from a perfect score) is that there was recently an enforced fee for parking at the park. What's worse is they charge more for out-of-state license plates, at times even if you've been a local for quite some time! There is a large amount of side street parking that some people take advantage of, and if you're a QU student or staff you can park across the street. If anybody does still play Pokemon Go! (all 3 of you), yes...there is sometimes a Snorlax at the top. read more

This is a great hiking trail that has it's challenging and easy trails. The main trail (tower trail) is always full of folks on the weekends, young, old, and canine included. It's shady and fairly bug free, which is a plus. There are port-a-potties as well, but no water so make sure to bring your own! The park closes at sunset and it costs $9 to park. The only real negative is that there is some litter around, and the gravel can be really hard to walk on. read more

Sleeping Giant State Park - Outside of the tower resting in the grass - Parks Near Me - Hamden, Connecticut

I went here for the first time this past weekend. It was a beautiful day out for fall time- high 60s and sunny. Apparently, a lot of other people thought so too because as we pulled up to the park, there was a ranger blocking the entrance saying they were at capacity. We were slightly bummed as we came all the way from New York City but quickly found parking at a nearby parking lot and walked over. We went on the Lookout Tower trail. I have a couple of herniated discs so this was the perfect trail to take it easy on. This trail is more of a stroll instead of a hike, but oh so lovely to walk on! It is a mile and a half hike up to the top that winds around the hill/mountain. We saw families with toddlers and people with pets. This trail is great for anyone of all ages and their pets too. If you're looking for a more secluded and/or strenuous hike, I would veer off elsewhere. This park definitely has lots to offer as I watched a few people rock climb as I was hiking. On the top of the trail is Lookout Tower where you can see the miles and miles of the scenic Connecticut landscape in the fall with its earthy greens and bright yellows, oranges and fiery reds. You can also see the ocean (or the sound? I'm not quite sure) on the other side. It really is quite beautiful. The tower itself is fun to walk through. There were plenty of kids here playing in the castle and imagining it was their home or fort. Something odd (or interesting! however you look at it) to note but as an environmentalist I think this is cool. There is a bathroom by Lookout Tower if you need. There are solar panels on top of the bathroom. The bathroom composts all its waste right under it so it never requires water/chemicals for maintenance. There is antibacterial hand sanitizer in there for you afterwards though. Overall, this park is well maintained. There was minimal to no garbage along the trails. I'd like to go back and try other trails. read more

Sleeping Giant State Park - A ledge next to lookout tower that we took a break on - Parks Near Me - Hamden, Connecticut

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Great little hike. Very confusing. We hiked 3 different trails by accident trying to just stay on one. The map didn't help lol. If you download allttrails it's sorta a help. People have hiked before and make their own trail tracks. We live in Los Angeles so there are many hikes that are nicer and harder but for this area it's an amazing hike and beautiful. I love hiking and the difficulty of this was decent. Got to the top of the mountain over looking the college. read more

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Love it! Beautiful and challenging. Just don't go early in the a.m. because it gets crowded.