As fall brings beautiful weather and vibrant foliage, there is no better time to connect with nature. Hiking offers the perfect way to do just that.
For many students, especially those not native to the area, figuring out where to go or what level of experience is needed can feel overwhelming.
Take Dean Hartl ‘25, for example. While eager to get outside and enjoy the stunning landscapes, he does not know how or where to begin.
“I’d love it if Farifeld looked into connecting people who want to hike and making those areas accessible to us,” Hartl shared.
His thoughts highlight a common issue for students on campus who are interested in hiking but unsure where to start.
Fortunately, the Outdoors Club, a group dedicated to promoting outdoor activities and helping students take advantage of the surrounding areas, offers a solution.
One of the club’s presidents, Lara Primakov ‘25, revealed plans for multiple hiking trips this semester to the popular Sleeping Giant State Park. Students interested in joining in on these hikes or learning more about the club and their trips can connect with the Outdoors Club via life@fairifeld.edu.
Sleeping Giant State Park is just a forty-minute drive from campus and is one of Connecticut’s most beautiful parks. With thirty-two miles of trails and a range of difficulty levels, it is perfect for all types of hikers. The park gets its name from its unique mountain formations, casting a silhouette of a sleeping man.
If you’re looking for hikes close to campus, there are multiple options for local trails. Just eight minutes from campus, the Lake Mohegan Loop offers a 2.2-mile trail that takes approximately 44 minutes to complete. According to AllTrails.com, a source for hiking information, the Lake Mohegan Loop requires little to no hiking experience, making it an ideal choice for beginners.
Connecticut Audubon Society County Lane Trail is nine minutes from campus and offers an easy 1.9-mile hike. Reviews found on AllTrails.com suggest that in addition to the trail being beautiful, the pathway is well-marked and maintained. The trail also offers information along the trails to give hikers opportunities to learn about nature and local wildlife.
If you are craving a more coastal experience, Farifleds beaches offer two scenic beach walking routes. The first is Jennings Beach To Pine Creek Point Trail which takes approximately an hour to complete. It is considered a moderate route.
The second is Sasco Hill Beach Walk, a quick and easy twenty-minute stroll along the shore. With these trails, it is important to keep in mind the tide to ensure an easy pathway.
It is important to keep in mind that these are considered more of a walk than a hike, but both are great options to take full advantage of Fairfield beaches and see picturesque views along the Long Island Sound.
Some students have already taken advantage of the nearby hiking options. Kacey McGorry ‘27 recently went on a morning hike at Grace Richardson Conservation Area.
“It was the perfect way to start my day,” she said about the forty-five-minute hike.
Its proximity to campus, a ten-minute drive, makes this another perfect spot for students looking for a refreshing escape.
Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just looking for a fun way to enjoy the outdoors, Fairifeld’s location provides ample opportunities to explore. Don’t miss out on the chance to enjoy the season and discover nature just beyond campus!
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