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Guilford, CT

Guilford is home to over 30 trails managed by the Guilford Land Conservation Trust.

The Land & Trails

Natural Landscape

Guilford’s landscape features a diverse mix of hardwood forests, salt marshes, wetlands, and granite ridges. Some trails follow the West River or wander near Long Island Sound, while others pass through quiet woods, old farms, and rocky outcrops. Each hike offers a unique experience thanks to the town's varied ecosystems.
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Image Credit: Encon
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Image Credit: Shoreline Hikes

Notable Hikes

Guilford is home to more than 30 trail systems managed by the Guilford Land Conservation Trust and other local organizations. Popular spots like Bluff Head, Timberlands, and East River Preserve offer miles of trails to explore. Some hikes, such as the Menunkatuck Trail, connect to the larger New England Trail and include scenic viewpoints and historical sites.

Seasonal Highlights

In spring, wetlands come alive with peepers and other amphibians. Summer brings lush tree canopies and active birdlife. In fall, Guilford’s ridges and forests burst with color, and in winter, the trails stay open for peaceful walks through snowy woods and frozen marshes.
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Image Credit: The Patch

The Land & Trails

Local History

Guilford was founded in 1639, making it one of Connecticut’s earliest settlements. Agriculture, quarrying, and shoreline trade helped shape its history. Today, stone walls, historic roads, and remnants of mills and homesteads can still be found along many trails.
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1881 Map
Image Credit: Knowol
Image Credit: GLCT
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Conservation & Land Trust

The Guilford Land Conservation Trust was established in 1965 and has protected over 3,000 acres of open space across the town. It works to preserve wildlife habitats, water quality, and public access to nature. The Trust’s volunteers help maintain trails, build boardwalks, and protect fragile ecosystems. Their mission is to keep Guilford green and accessible for all.
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Image Credit: Stanton House Inn
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Image Credit: Shoreline Hikes

Our Favorite Guilford Trails

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East River Preserve Fields

The East River Preserve fields offer a great variety of wide flat trails through the fields, to some nice easy hiking trails in the woods. The whole complex is always very well maintained and is a great spot for any hiker.

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Bluff Head

Bluff Head features a nice challenging loop that passes by one of the best views on the shoreline. The loop has some nice flat parts, and some challenging steep and rocky spots. Be especially careful with dogs on the narrow areas with cliffs to the side.

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Timberlands

In my opinion, the Timberlands is one of the best hiking trails on the shoreline. Parts of it wrap around the Upper Guilford Lake, making for a very scenic walk. It also features trails of all skill levels.

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