By: Julia Lucey
As November approaches there are just a few short weeks left to enjoy the beautiful colors that come with a New England fall, and there are few better ways to do so than taking a trip to one of Connecticut’s state parks for a scenic hike. A classic and convenient hiking spot to visit this autumn is Sleeping Giant State Park in Hamden, a CT state park since 1924
The park is about 55 miles from central Greenwich straight up I-95 and then via 91 once you reach New Haven. Alternatively, taking the Merritt adds just a few minutes to the trip but it looks absolutely gorgeous during the fall months with the surrounding trees showing off their bright foliage. Upon arrival, the park has a parking area right at the foot of the mountain, although be aware that it fills up quickly on weekends and closes once at capacity! Parking is free on both weekdays and weekends of in-state vehicles.
Sleeping Giant features two miles of mountaintop and gets its name for its resemblance of a resting human when viewed at certain positions. The hiking trail extends about a mile and a half long, upward towards the mountain’s peak. The mountain itself, Mt. Carmel, reaches a peak of 738 feet, and atop the trail is a stone observation tower that looks out toward the surrounding hills and mountains in the New Haven area.
The Park’s trails are clearly marked, lead directly to the top, and are very family friendly and appropriate for inexperienced hikers. While the trail is in general large enough to allow visitors to maintain social distancing, most if not all hikers have masks with them to put on when space does not allow adequate room between groups. The hike yields a breathtaking vista once you reach the top, especially this time of year as the surrounding area is consumed by vivid orange and yellow trees.
Sleeping Giant has an interesting history that extends far back to Connecticut’s indigenous people. According to the Sleeping Giant Park Association, the Native Americans that inhabited this area referred to the Giant as Hobbomock, an evil spirit who was put under a spell by a good spirit, Keitan, causing him to sleep forever. Sleeping Giant wouldn’t become a state park until much later, after quarrying of the mountain began to alter the Giant’s shape, the Sleeping Giant Park Association formed to preserve its true form and beauty. Outdoor excursions are a great way to enjoy the changing leaves and dropping temperatures to stay in the autumn spirit. Connecticut has so many parks perfect for this purpose, and Sleeping Giant is one for anyone looking to get outside, to get moving, and to explore the area!
