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Dodge Paddock / Beal Preserve
4.7 ★★★★★ 43 Google reviews · Running trail in Stonington, Connecticut · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Natural surface
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Posted hours
Confirmed from Dodge Paddock / Beal Preserve's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
What runners say about Dodge Paddock / Beal Preserve
“Beautiful spot that overlooks the sound and a great place to meditate.”
Nice secluded natural shoreline area tucked in between the many houses of Stonington Borough. A non-secluded gravel parking lot with surrounding stone walls is conveniently located at the end of Wall Street. A trail winds along the rocky shoreline with native flora abounding.
A beautifully serene view of Fisher's Island Sound, Stonington, and Watch Hill, RI. Limited but free daytime parking. Walking distance to Stonington Boro sights and shops. Come sit out on the rocks in the sun and contemplate.
It is a great little place to access the coastline. There's a small parking area available. You can walk the dig or just walk yourself. There's some great wildlife to be seen and some stunning views. There's also some nice stone walls and a breakwater that makes for some great photo locations.
Invasive plants with nice walk and great views. The habitat restoration area is commendable.
Trail conditions & character
“Besides the views of Fishers Island Sound and Napatree Point, a unique view of Sandy Point may be seen.”
“A non-secluded gravel parking lot with surrounding stone walls is conveniently located at the end of Wall Street.”
“A trail winds along the rocky shoreline with native flora abounding.”
Plan your run at Dodge Paddock / Beal Preserve
The practical stuff
- AccessPosted hours — posted hours below; park gates sometimes close earlier than the listing says
- SurfaceNatural surface — easiest on the joints and the most fun, but expect roots, rocks and mud after rain
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Websiteavalonialandconservancy.org
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | 6 AM–7:30 PM |
| Tuesday | 6 AM–7:30 PM |
| Wednesday | 6:30 AM–8:30 PM |
| Thursday | 6 AM–7:30 PM |
| Friday | 6:30 AM–8:30 PM |
| Saturday | 6 AM–7:30 PM |
| Sunday | 6 AM–7:30 PM |
Running trails near Stonington
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Knox Preserve - Avalonia Land Conservancy
4.8 ★★★★★ 56 reviews
Short-ish, easy trail featuring views of the water and peaceful scenery.
Napatree Point Conservation Area
4.8 ★★★★★ 676 reviews
Founded in 1945, this coastal nature preserve for bird nesting & migratory resting features a trail.
Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center
4.7 ★★★★★ 183 reviews
Up-close encounters with frogs & turtles, plus a wildlife rehabilitation center & forested trails.