15 Fun Stroller Hikes in Connecticut To Take with Babies and Toddlers
Connecticut families with kids under 6, these fun stroller hikes are for you! Just because you have a stroller-bound toddler, doesn't mean you can't take a family hike in Connecticut. These stroller-friendly trails in Connecticut take advantage of the state’s rail trails, greenways, and river pathways. Mom and dad (and those older siblings) can get outside for some fresh air and exercise. Some of these CT stroller hike locations even have playgrounds and places to stretch your legs afterwards.
Explore the Best Nature Centers in Connecticut To Visit with Kids. Check out the Outdoor Adventures Guide: Hiking Camping, and More in Connecticut for more activities in the fresh air. And subscribe to our newsletter for more ideas!
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Stroller-Friendly Trails in Hartford County
The Farmington River Trail in Canton is a great stroller-friendly hike. Photo courtesy of ryanhumble via Instagram
1. Farmington Canal Heritage Trail - multiple locations
This trail winds through Hartford and New Haven counties before continuing into Massachusetts. You can expect to find 58 miles of paved, stroller-friendly trails ready for your stroller. The Farmington Canal Heritage Trail runs through rural areas and past historic buildings, with beautiful views.
2. Charter Oak Greenway - Manchester
One of the more urban trails on this list, the Charter Oak Greenway is the the portion of the East Coast Greenway that runs from East Hartford to Bolton. This paved surface is about ten miles long and runs through the state’s capital, past college campuses, parks, commercial areas, and the riverfront.
3. Windsor Locks Canal State Park - Windsor Locks
This paved stroller-friendly trail begins in Windsor Locks and goes to Suffield. The path is 4.5 miles long and follows the path of the historic canal, which is jam-packed with river critters, birds, and flowers.
4. Nevers Park - South Windsor
Besides being an absolutely fun playground park, Nevers Park has a place sit down for a snack after hiking a paved loop. In fact, there are three paths of different lengths families can follow.
Stroller-Friendly Trails in Fairfield County
5. Norwalk Valley River Trail - Norwalk and other locations
This path will be thirty miles through Fairfield County when it's completed. It begins at Calf Pasture Beach and will feature a 10 foot wide paved and stone dust trail. Currently there is 12 completed miles ready for use!
Stroll through Ridgefield on this easy trail. Photo by kaympetty via Instagram
6. Ridgefield Trail Trail - Ridgefield
This easy 2.5-mile trail passes along a creek and through parks and open spaces. The trail runs from downtown Ridgefield to the Branchville section of town. There are plenty of benches located along the way, in case you want to stop and take in the scenery.
7. Pequonnock River Trail - Bridgeport and Trumbull
This 16-mile multi-use, linear trail starts in Bridgeport, through Trumbull, to Monroe. You literally go from the shores of the Long Island Sound in Seaside Park to Gardener Road Reserve along the Pequonnock River Valley.
Stroller-Friendly Hiking Trails in New Haven County
8. Savin Rock Trail - New Haven
Savin Rock Trail is on the short side (1.2 miles). But, what it lacks in length its makes up for in scenery and history. It is also part of the East Coast Greenway Trail System, so there are possibilities to extend your stroller-friendly hike.
9. Derby Greenway - Derby
Opened in 2005, this 1.7-mile trail runs along the banks of the Naugatuck and Housatonic Rivers through Derby. You can expect to find a flat paced surface that is used year round by bikers, joggers, walkers, and pets.
10. Long Lane Path - Middletown
This 2.4-mile paved path which is open year round. Leashed dogs are welcome. The trail is flat and easy.
Stroller-Friendly Trails in Litchfield County
11. Sue Grossman Still River Greenway - Torrington, Winchester
At just under three miles, this is one of the longer trails on our list. With trailheads in Torrington and Winchester the trail features smooth, flat asphalt treks through wetlands along the Still River. This family-friendly trail is frequently used by bikers, walkers, and joggers.
12. Kent Falls Hiking State Park - Kent
In a natural setting, this packed dirt path is 1.5 miles long and goes around the waterfall. FYI: This child-friendly trail leads to where the Falls trail begins (a steeper, harder trail). This area is beautiful in the fall!
Stroller-Friendly Trails for Hikes in East Connecticut
13. Niantic Bay Boardwalk - Niantic
Beach hikes are tough with a stroller–if not full blown impossible. This beautiful 1.1-mile boardwalk allows you the ease of a waterfront stroll with out getting mired in the sand.
14. Putnam River Trail - Putnam
Stroll your away along the eastern shore of the Quinebaug River. The path winds through woodlands, parks, an antique shopping district, and mills. This two mile stroller-friendly trail can be accessed through four parking areas along Kennedy Drive.
15. Bluff Point State Park - Groton
A seaside loop that, while not paved, is wide and level. Enjoy over 3 miles of stroller-hiking. Dogs are welcome on a leash. Maybe you will see some seagulls or other wildlife as you pass the Nature Reserve.