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MDC Reservoir
4.8 ★★★★★ 743 Google reviews · Running trail in West Hartford, Connecticut · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Paved
- Loop distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Loop
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Posted hours
Confirmed from MDC Reservoir'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.
Spacious park featuring multiple bike and walking trails spanning a reservoir with serene scenery.
What runners say about MDC Reservoir
“The paths are paved and very well-maintained, which made it an easy and relaxing stroll even after a long day of driving.”
“Beautiful place calm and refreshing but not marked trails and no restrooms.”
“This is a great place to jog, ride your bike, run or walk; whichever is your interest.”
“Serene waters surround you once you set off on the paved trails around our central CT reservoir in Farmington, CT.”
“Great place to bring the dog for a walk.”
Amazing park 🏞️ If you are looking for a hike in the Hartford area and short on time, check out MDC Reservoir Park in West Hartford. Great foliage in the fall also🍁
4.11.22 Big parking lot, 3 porta potties, well marked paved trail, easy, wide walking, runnung, biking trail good for families, going solo, as a group. You'll see strollers, folks running, riding their bikes and many being walked by their dogs :) On a perfect weekend day the parking lot fills up as this is a very…
I love this place so much. Absolutely beautiful when it’s sunny. So many different routes you can take. Perfect for families and dog walkers.
One of the best kept secrets of West hartford. Many people like to travel to New Hampshire or Vermont to look at foliage and do hiking. Little do they know they can drive 5 to 15 minutes down the road depending on where they live and have her mind in New Hampshire right in their backyard.
Trail conditions & character
“It is a fantastic spot to get some fresh air and clear your head while enjoying the nature views right near the city.”
“You'll see strollers, folks running, riding their bikes and many being walked by their dogs :) On a perfect weekend day the parking lot fills up as this is a very popular area.”
“Serene waters surround you once you set off on the paved trails around our central CT reservoir in Farmington, CT.”
“22 Big parking lot, 3 porta potties, well marked paved trail, easy, wide walking, runnung, biking trail good for families, going solo, as a group.”
“22 Big parking lot, 3 porta potties, well marked paved trail, easy, wide walking, runnung, biking trail good for families, going solo, as a group.”
“22 Big parking lot, 3 porta potties, well marked paved trail, easy, wide walking, runnung, biking trail good for families, going solo, as a group.”
“Good to bring water and a snack as the Red loop can take one hour.”
“It had restrooms, a water fountain, benches along the trail and areas for picnics.”
Plan your run at MDC Reservoir
The practical stuff
- AccessPosted hours — posted hours below; park gates sometimes close earlier than the listing says
- SurfacePaved — asphalt or concrete. Fast and predictable, runnable year-round, and fine with a stroller
- 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, restrooms, water — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Websitethemdc.org
- Phone+1 860-278-7820
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | 7 am–7 pm |
| Tuesday | 7 am–7 pm |
| Wednesday | 7 am–7 pm |
| Thursday | 7 am–7 pm |
| Friday | 7 am–7 pm |
| Saturday | 7 am–7 pm |
| Sunday | 7 am–7 pm |
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