Hiking is a great way to get some exercise, and there’s no better way to enjoy the great outdoors than by exploring Connecticut’s amazing trails. Dirt paths through the forests are fine, but a woodland walk becomes much more magical when there’s a little something extra. We’ve put together this list of hikes that not only have great scenery but they also have their very own footbridges. From tiny to big, these bridges are not only fun to traverse but offer an enchanting break to your journey. Check out the 10 best hikes in Connecticut that lead to fairytale footbridges.

1. Lover's Leap State Park, New Milford
Lovers Leap, New Milford, CT 06776, USA
Flickr/Bob P.B.
This bridge in Lover's Leap State Park is probably one of the most well-known in the state. Is it because the bridge is so beautiful or because of the haunting stories that surround it? You can read more about these local legends in our featured article about Lovers Leap State Park.
2. Air Line State Park Trail, Colchester
Air Line State Park Trail - East Hampton, 69 Smith St, East Hampton, CT 06424, USA
Wikimedia Commons/Magicpiano
The Air Line State Park trail crosses the Black Ledge River in Colchester. This wooden decked bridge was once a railroad bridge but now is only open to foot traffic. Enjoy scenic views of the river from your perch up above on this footbridge. To learn more, visit the website for the Air Line State Park Trail. After your visit, you'll understand why we named this one of the best hikes in Connecticut.
3. Hidden Valley Preserve, Washington Depot
Hidden Valley Preserve, 198 Bee Brook Rd, Washington Depot, CT 06794, USA
TripAdvisor/martingreen2017
Cross a 120-foot-long engineered suspension bridge at this beautiful sanctuary. It might give you butterflies, but the journey is well worth it. You can find out more about this amazing bridge in our featured article about Hidden Valley Preserve.
4. Southford Falls State Park, Oxford
Southford Falls State Park, 175 Quaker Farms Rd, Southbury, CT 06488, USA
TripAdvisor/Athina L
This picture-perfect tiny bridge at the entrance to Southford Falls State Park is just a hint of what is to come. Explore the trail, waterfall, and observation tower all in one spot. Southford Falls State Park will take you a million miles away from it all.
4. Monroe Rail Trail, Monroe
Housatonic Valley Rail-Trail - Monroe, Monroe, CT, USA
AllTrails/Michael Finch
You can find this 3-mile trail in William Wolfe Park. Enjoy an easy hike that includes crossing a cute stone bridge nestled in the woods. Everyone should explore the Monroe Rail Trail at least once!

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6. Silver Sands State Park, Milford
Silver Sands State Park, 1 Silver Sands Pkwy, Milford, CT 06460, USA
TripAdvisor/PeiT231
The bridge to the stunning white sand beach at this park is one of the most traveled in Connecticut. Who wouldn't love a wooden walkway across the dunes that lead to the surf? Silver Sands State Park belongs on everyone's bucket list.
7. Branford Trolley Trail, Branford
Branford Trolley Trail, Branford, CT 06405, USA
TrailLink/blazer8696
This rail trail runs along an abandoned trolley track. The footbridge crosses the marsh where you can see plenty of local wildlife. Visit the website for the Branford Trolley Trail to learn more!
8. Michael Donnelly Preserve Trail, South Windsor
Major Michael Donnelly Land Preserve, 1165 Sullivan Ave, South Windsor, CT 06074, USA
AllTrails/Jamison Wolsh
Some may call this a boardwalk that leads you across the wetlands, but it keeps your feet dry, so in a way, this spot has a long bridge. The Michael Donnelly Preserve Trail is 2.5 miles long and a great spot for a relaxed walk through nature.
9. Bartlett Arboretum Trail, Stamford
AllTrails/Maria Ussher
Take your dog or kids on this easy 1.3-mile trail. The tiniest of the footbridges crosses a creek under tree-filtered sunlight. You'll love a peaceful stroll along the Bartlett Arboretum Trail.
10. Chatfield Hollow State Park, Killingworth
Chatfield Hollow State Park, Connecticut 80, Killingworth, CT, USA
TripAdvisor/TreeHugger009
Pick from several trails at Chatfield Hollow State Park, but take the covered bridge trail to cross this little gem in the woods.

What do you think are the best hikes in Connecticut? Are there other hikes in the state that we should add to this list? Let us know in the comments section.

To see more great hiking spots and photos of natural beauty in our state, join the Connecticut Nature Lover’s Group on Facebook.

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More to Explore

best hikes in Connecticut

Elisa Regulski | March 10, 2022

What are the best hikes with a view in Connecticut?

The Airline State Park Trail, located in Thompson, is one of the most beautiful hikes in Connecticut. The entire trail system spans 50 miles, but this section is a manageable 6.6-miles long. Along the way, you’ll see gorgeous tree canopies, relaxing babbling brooks, lovely marshes, and more. The Hancock Brook Trail, located in Waterbury, is another lovely hike. This 2.8-mile hike has so much to offer, including a historic quarry and old ruins!

Which hikes in Connecticut are short and sweet?

There are so many great and easy hikes in Connecticut. The Quinnipiac River Gorge Trail, located in South Meriden, is one of our favorites. It’s only about a mile long, and it’s super easy to follow. The gorgeous waterfront views will completely relax you. Make sure to bring the kiddos along because this hike is so even and easy, it’s one of the best kid-friendly hikes in Connecticut. For more fun, explore the Little Pond Trail inside White Memorial Conservation Center. This 1.2-mile trail follows a boardwalk and weaves through stunning scenery. You won’t find difficult terrain here! For more fun travel ideas, check out our list of the best easy hikes in Connecticut.

What are the best waterfall hikes in Connecticut?

If you’re looking for the best easy waterfall hikes in Connecticut, check out the hike to Indian Well Falls. Located in the town of Shelton, this hiking path always impresses. Of course, this hike is about as easy as they come. It’ll only take you five minutes to complete, but once you reach the end, the views will blow you away. Stare in awe at the rushing waterfall and absorb the beauty around you.

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