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Madison, CT

Madison is home to over 20 trails and close to 2000 acres managed by the 

Madison Land Conservation Trust. In my opinion, they're 

the best land trust on the shoreline. It's also home to a state park, and RWA trails.

The Land & Trails

Natural Landscape

Madison’s landscape includes a mix of hardwood forests, wetlands, rivers, and glacial ridges. Some trails follow the Hammonasset River or cross rocky uplands, while others pass through quiet woods and old farmland. The variety of ecosystems means every hike feels a little different.
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Image Credit: Shoreline Hikes
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Image Credit: Shoreline Hikes

Notable Hikes

The town has more than 20 trail systems managed by the Madison Land Conservation Trust and state forest land. Large networks like Neck River Uplands, Lowry Woods, and Overbrook Trail offer miles of paths to explore. Some trails, like Papermill, include ruins and historical features.

Seasonal Highlights

In spring, vernal pools fill with frogs and salamanders. By summer, dense green forests offer shade, and birds fill the canopy. Fall brings bold foliage across the ridges. In winter, the trails remain open for quiet walks through leafless woods and snow-covered paths.
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Image Credit: Meigs Point Nature Center

The Land & Trails

Local History

Madison was settled in the 1600s and officially became a town in 1826, named after President James Madison. Farming and shoreline industry shaped the early economy. Old roads, fieldstone walls, and mills are still found along the trails.
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1881 Map
Image Credit: Knowol
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Image Credit: MLCT

Conservation & Land Trust

The Madison Land Conservation Trust was founded in 1964, making it Connecticut's oldest land trust. It now protects over 1,000 acres across more than 40 properties in town. The Trust maintains many of Madison’s most popular trails and relies on volunteers to help clear paths, build footbridges, and care for the land. Its mission is to preserve open space, protect habitats, and keep nature accessible to the public.
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Image Credit: The New York Times
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Image Credit: Only In Your State
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Our Favorite Madison Trails

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​Neck River Trail

The Neck River Trail is an awesome small and easy loop that follows along the Neck River. It is always very well maintained, dog friendly, and features lots of small scenic spots along the river.

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Papermill Trail

The Papermill trail is a nice network that runs along the scenic Hammonasset River. The trail also passes by the ruins of the paper mill that once operated there in the mid to late 1800s.

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Bailey Trail South

If you enjoy the scenery of large rivers then this is the perfect trail for you. The trail runs along the Hammonasset River, and features small challenging stretches of big rocks and tree roots.

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