20s & 30s Mansfield Hollow State Park & Lake Trail Loop

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/a5UVX00000152tR
Audience: 20’s & 30’s

Description: Ready for an adventure that’s fun, friendly, and full of lakeside views? Join us for a loop around Mansfield Hollow State Park , one of Connecticut’s most underrated gems for beginner‑friendly exploration. This trail has everything : peaceful forests, open fields, water views that go on forever, and a dam crossing that feels like a mini‑expedition. We’ll follow a combination of the Mansfield Hollow State Park Loop & Mansfield Hollow Lake Trail , a smooth and well‑marked loop that hugs the shoreline and dips into quiet woodlands. Expect rolling terrain, breezy lake air, and plenty of spots to stop, look around, and say “ wow. ” It’s the perfect hike if you want something adventurous without steep climbs or technical sections. This loop is roughly 7 miles with ~470 ft of elevation gain — super approachable, scenic, and great for all experience levels. *Dogs are welcome but must be leash. 🐕‍🦺
🎒 What to Bring 1+ liter of water 💧 Lunch/Snacks — fuel = fun 🍱🥪🍕 Layers — lakeside breezes are real 🌬️ Comfortable, sturdy shoes (trail runners or hiking shoes) 🥾 Hiking poles — optional but great for balance and rhythm on rolling terrain 🦯
🅿️ Parking Parking is free at Mansfield Hollow State Park. Exact meeting location will be sent out to confirm participants.
🍽️ Lunch Pack a lunch or snacks. About 4 miles into the hike, we will reach the Mansfield Hollow Lake Recreation Area. There are picnic tables at the recreation area so we can sit, socialize, and have lunch to refuel, before finishing the rest of the hike.
📧 Confirmed Participants Will Receive Weather updates A Google Sheet for optional carpooling Exact meeting location
🔗 Helpful Links AllTrails Route: https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/mansfield-hollow-state-park-lake-trail-loop-ada577d Connecticut's Official State Park Site: https://ctparks.com/parks/mansfield-hollow-state-park Explore Connecticut: https://explorect.org/mansfield-hollow/

Reminder: Please click the RSVP link above to register!