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Details

Activity Type: Hiking, Local Walks, & Trail Running | Hiking
Difficulty: 4 - Moderate
Trip Leader(s): Lee Thao
Registration Type: Registration
Please Click Here to RSVP: https://activities.outdoors.org/a5UVX0000013UVd
Audience: 20’s & 30’s

Description: Join us for a waterfront adventure on the Zoar Trail in Sandy Hook! This loop offers a perfect mix of rugged ridge hiking, peaceful lakeside paths, and a hidden gem of a waterfall. 🌊🌲 We’ll start by following the blue-blazed trail through the lower block of Paugussett State Forest, winding through shaded hemlock groves and hardwood forests. The highlight of the day is the long stretch along the banks of Lake Zoar , where you’ll get constant water views and a front-row seat to the Housatonic River. We’ll also take the short spur to see Prydden Brook Falls , a dramatic multi-tiered cascade that tumbles down toward the lake. Be ready for a few technical sections—this trail has some fun rocky scrambles and a steady climb to keep things interesting! This route is roughly 6.4 miles with ~1,115 ft of gain — a moderate, rewarding loop with some of the best water features in the area.
🎒 What to Bring: 1.5+ liters of water 💧 (It’s a bit longer than the Giant!) Snacks/Lunch to enjoy by the lake 🥪 Sturdy hiking boots 🥾 (Essential for the rocky shoreline and rooty climbs) Bug spray 🦟 (The lakeside sections can be buggy in warmer months) 🅿️ Parking: Parking is at the end of Great Quarter Road . FREE – CT-Registered Vehicles (via Passport to the Parks) Out-of-State Vehicles: Fees generally apply from April–October (approx. $10 weekdays / $15 weekends). 🍻 Social: After the hike, we’ll head to Jewel of Himalaya in Newtown CT (about a 10-15 minute drive). Specializing in traditional Himalayan dishes like Momos (dumplings) and flavorful curries, this local favorite is known for its authentic Nepalese and Tibetan cuisine. The restaurant's cozy and welcoming atmosphere provides the perfect warm and flavorful reward after a day on the trail.
📧 Confirmed participants will receive: Weather updates A Google Sheet for optional carpooling Exact meeting location at the trailhead
Connecticut Forest & Park Association: https://ctwoodlands.org/trails/zoar-trail/ Connecticut's Official State Website: Paugussett State Forest Lower Block Blue Blazed Zoar Trail Map AllTrails: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/connecticut/zoar-trail Jewel Of Himalaya: https://www.jewelofhimalayact.com/

Reminder: Please click the RSVP link above to register!

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