Home › Connecticut › Naugatuck › Naugatuck State Forest
Naugatuck State Forest
4.6 ★★★★★ 543 Google reviews · Running trail in Naugatuck, Connecticut · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Not reported
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Posted hours
Confirmed from Naugatuck State Forest'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.
Densely wooded state park offering fishing, hiking, mountain biking, cross-country skiing & more.
What runners say about Naugatuck State Forest
“Beautiful gorge trail, could use some log clearing and minor veg trimming to reduce tick/trail blockage issues, some trail erosion and desire line issues.”
“If you know how to follow markings on the trees, it's well marked, just keep focused and you'll stay on track.”
“You don't get the crowding you get at places like Sleeping Giant, so it's very peaceful.”
Great forest to visit when your in Connecticut. There isn't an official parking lot but there are pockets of lots you can go to and leave your car. Many different trails to try out and the views are beautiful. Just make sure to put in bug repellent as there are lots of mosquitoes in the deep wooded areas.
This was a wonderful place, with all different levels of hikes, easier walks, for the beginners, and nice moderate trails, to get a good work out, and enjoy the steps. If you know how to follow markings on the trees, it's well marked, just keep focused and you'll stay on track.
I had so much fun, it is a beautiful place with a lot of peace. The bad; I saw people walking their dogs without leash and some did not pick up the poop. Other than that the forest is quiet and walkable. The only thing that worries me is that hunting is permitted and I heard many gun shoots during my hike.
This place is great, I've spent a lot of good times growing up in these woods. It's nice to see natural untouched landscape for a change. Tons of trails, waterfalls and wildlife. Hiking to the top to see route 8 is always a must when I'm there. Truly one of the only hidden gems here in Naugatuck.
Trail conditions & character
“And when you get the top, you see the amazing view, with the mountains in the distance, lakes right below you, at the bottom of the cliff, and the highway, with cars wizzing by.”
“The bad; I saw people walking their dogs without leash and some did not pick up the poop.”
“You don't get the crowding you get at places like Sleeping Giant, so it's very peaceful.”
“If you know how to follow markings on the trees, it's well marked, just keep focused and you'll stay on track.”
Plan your run at Naugatuck State Forest
The practical stuff
- AccessPosted hours — posted hours below; park gates sometimes close earlier than the listing says
- 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.
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Websitect.gov
- Phone+1 860-424-3000
Hours
| Monday | 7 am–8 pm |
| Tuesday | 7 am–8 pm |
| Wednesday | 7 am–8 pm |
| Thursday | 7 am–8 pm |
| Friday | 7 am–8 pm |
| Saturday | 7 am–8 pm |
| Sunday | 7 am–8 pm |
Running trails near Naugatuck
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Naugatuck State Forest
4.9 ★★★★★ 52 reviews
Hiking spot featuring trails that wind through a forested area with waterfalls.
Spruce Brook Trail
5 ★★★★★ 2 reviews
Beacon Falls Recreation Complex
4.6 ★★★★★ 72 reviews
Spacious, woodland area featuring baseball fields, along with tennis and basketball courts and soccer.
Naugatuck State Forest
4.8 ★★★★★ 31 reviews
Matthies Memorial Park
4.6 ★★★★★ 129 reviews
Relaxed, secluded spot featuring a playground for kids, ponds and a lake.