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Scantic River State Park - West
4.6 ★★★★★ 129 Google reviews · Running trail in Enfield, Connecticut · Open 24 hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Natural surface
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Open 24 hours
Confirmed from Scantic River State Park - West'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.
Linear state park featuring riverside trails, waterfalls and woods.
What runners say about Scantic River State Park - West
“There are a number of trials in different place that all give you great views.”
“Or kids love coming here for the adventurous hiking and we love it for the peaceful calming nature scenes.”
“Excellent for dog walking, hikes with children, or if you're looking for a quick, easy hike.”
Nice quick walk to the river. No crowds. Trail is a little steep but short.
This is one of or favorite Scantic River hikes. It is best to do in the spring, summer and fall when the cows are out. Be careful of muddy and snowy seasons as there are some steep grades. It is still a great place to explore, or sit and meditate, or splash in the river.
I live on the road this state park is on. There is never an available parking spot but we are grateful we can walk there. Beautiful and serene.
A tributary of the Connecticut River, the Scantic River is fed by tributaries in Massachusetts and flows through Somers, Enfield and East Windsor. The linear state park in three separate parcels along its banks was first mooted more than 50 years ago and has grown steadily over the last 20 years.
Trail conditions & character
“The river has majestic waterfalls and the constant sound of water during your hike is very peaceful.”
“A few areas have a bit of a slope - not wheelchair accessible by any means, however easy enough for young children to climb.”
“There’s a convenient access point and small parking lot on Hazard Avenue, a short way west of Somers proper.”
“Or kids love coming here for the adventurous hiking and we love it for the peaceful calming nature scenes.”
“Be careful of muddy and snowy seasons as there are some steep grades.”
“A few areas have a bit of a slope - not wheelchair accessible by any means, however easy enough for young children to climb.”
Plan your run at Scantic River State Park - West
The practical stuff
- AccessOpen 24 hours — no gate to beat, so a 5am or a 10pm run both work
- 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
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
- Websitesrwa.org
- Social Facebook
Hours
| Monday | Open 24 hours |
| Tuesday | Open 24 hours |
| Wednesday | Open 24 hours |
| Thursday | Open 24 hours |
| Friday | Open 24 hours |
| Saturday | Open 24 hours |
| Sunday | Open 24 hours |
Running trails near Enfield
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Scantic River State Park, Powder Hollow Block
4.6 ★★★★★ 253 reviews
State park with riverside walking paths, woods, and a historical stone wall.
Scantic River State Park East
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Popular park offering miles of hiking trails through dense forest, as well as fishing.
Brainerd Park
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Park offering picnic tables, basketball and softball fields, and a playground.
Redstone Rail Trail Bike Trail
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