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Paffard Woods
4.6 ★★★★★ 31 Google reviews · Running trail in Stonington, Connecticut · Hours vary
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Natural surface
- Loop distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Loop
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Not reported
Confirmed from Paffard Woods' 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 Paffard Woods
This is a great place for a short hike. Trails are well marked and maps are posted at intersections. Trail conditions are good, there are some easy inclines, a slightly muddy part, and a few areas that are rocky.
Really enjoyed the interesting Stone walls and trees and rocks growing together on this hike. Took about an hour to do the largest loop but we went slowly and it was relatively easy to hike. Just need to watch where you are walking because of all the wonderful rocks. The brook was a deep amber color and very pretty.
A fabulous nature preserve with great trails and a variety of terrain. Salt marsh / bay, wetlands, streams, uplands, glacial moraines. Trails are walkable all year, no mountain biking, open dawn to dusk. Owned by Avalonia Land Conservancy.
Nice place to walk . Needs alittle work cleaning debris from trails. Not a good place for strollers or wheelchairs
Trail conditions & character
“Trail conditions are good, there are some easy inclines, a slightly muddy part, and a few areas that are rocky.”
“Took about an hour to do the largest loop but we went slowly and it was relatively easy to hike.”
“Not a good place for strollers or wheelchairs”
Plan your run at Paffard Woods
The practical stuff
- AccessHours vary — hours are not posted for this trail, so check before an early or late run
- 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.
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
- Websiteavalonialandconservancy.org
- Phone(860) 884-3500
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.
Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center
4.7 ★★★★★ 183 reviews
Up-close encounters with frogs & turtles, plus a wildlife rehabilitation center & forested trails.
Knox Preserve - Avalonia Land Conservancy
4.8 ★★★★★ 56 reviews
Short-ish, easy trail featuring views of the water and peaceful scenery.
