Trimountain State Park
Hike a classic trap rock ridge with challenging ascents and scenic reservoir views. Discover a unique vulture roosting site.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temps, fewer bugs
Trimountain State Park
Best Time
Pleasant temps, fewer bugs
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike a classic trap rock ridge with challenging ascents and scenic reservoir views. Discover a unique vulture roosting site.
"A great spot for a moderate hike up and along a typical trap rock ridge with beautiful scenery."
👟 Sturdy Footwear Essential
Loose rocks and steep hills demand good hiking boots. Don't underestimate the terrain!
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
The 5-hour trek along the blue trail requires hydration. Bring more than you think you'll need.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Scenic Overlooks
Along the Mattabesett Trail
Discover three overlooks offering views of the reservoir, with one serving as a vulture roosting site.
Mattabesett Trail
Blue-blazed trail
Hike a classic trap rock ridge with challenging ascents and descents, offering a rewarding outdoor experience.
Shelter and Logbook
Near Route 68
Find a small shelter with a logbook at the end of the trail, a perfect spot to rest and reflect.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trail Conditions & Difficulty
Parking & Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Sturdy Footwear Essential
Loose rocks and steep hills demand good hiking boots. Don't underestimate the terrain!
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
The 5-hour trek along the blue trail requires hydration. Bring more than you think you'll need.
🚗 Limited Parking Alert
Parking on Howd Road can fill up. Arrive early or explore other access points for your hike.
🦅 Vulture Roosting Site
One overlook is a popular spot for vultures. A unique wildlife viewing opportunity!
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Sturdy Footwear Essential
Loose rocks and steep hills demand good hiking boots. Don't underestimate the terrain!
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
The 5-hour trek along the blue trail requires hydration. Bring more than you think you'll need.
🚗 Limited Parking Alert
Parking on Howd Road can fill up. Arrive early or explore other access points for your hike.
🦅 Vulture Roosting Site
One overlook is a popular spot for vultures. A unique wildlife viewing opportunity!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors generally find Trimountain State Park to be a good spot for a moderately challenging hike, appreciating the scenic overlooks and the unique vulture roosting site. The steep, rocky terrain is noted as a significant aspect of the experience, requiring good footwear and preparation. While some find the trails demanding, the natural beauty and the opportunity for wildlife viewing are consistently praised.
"I parked on Howd Rd and hiked through Trimountain on the Mattabesset trail to Route 68. There's a couple rocky scrambles and some downed trees, but overall not a difficult hike except for the ascent. Nothing was washed out and insects were minimal. There's 3 scenic overlooks at Trimountain, but only one of them was interesting. It appears to be a roosting site for vultures. You get a nice view of the reservoir from up there. There's a small shelter with a logbook on the end of the trail nearest to Route 68.
This is not the best section of the NET I've hiked, but also far from the worst. If you want to see something even more scenic, check out the next section north of this one that goes through Powder Hill and Beseck Mountain."
Sophie F
"Parking could be better along Howd road. Otherwise, great spot for a moderate hike up and along a typical trap rock ridge on blue blazed mattabesett trail. North takes you through to intersect with rt 68. South takes you over ridge and intersects rt 17."
Gil Schaper
"Nice hike, beautiful scenery. A bit challenging with the loose rocks on the long steep hill. But still a great hike."
Phil DiMarco
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Trimountain State Park is accessible via Howd Road, with trailheads also near Route 68 and Route 17. Parking can be limited on Howd Road, so arriving early is recommended.
The primary parking is along Howd Road, but it can fill up quickly. Consider the access points near Route 68 and Route 17 for alternative entry points to the Mattabesett Trail.
The park is located in a more rural area. Using GPS for Howd Road or the nearest intersections with Route 68 and Route 17 will help you navigate.
Yes, the Mattabesett Trail runs through the park and connects to Route 68 to the north and Route 17 to the south, offering multiple access points.
Public transport options are very limited for this park due to its rural location. Driving is the most practical way to reach Trimountain State Park.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Trimountain State Park does not require tickets for entry. It is a public park, and access is generally free.
As a state park, Trimountain is typically open from dawn to dusk. It's always a good idea to check local listings for any specific seasonal hours or closures.
There is no entrance fee to access Trimountain State Park. Enjoy the natural beauty without any admission cost.
Yes, the Mattabesett Trail, which passes through Trimountain State Park, is free to access and hike.
Generally, no permits are required for day hiking or general visitation at Trimountain State Park.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
Hiking in Trimountain State Park, particularly on the Mattabesett Trail, is considered moderately challenging due to steep, rocky ascents and descents.
Yes, there are three scenic overlooks offering views of the reservoir. One of these is noted as a vulture roosting site.
Hiking the entire blue trail (Mattabesett Trail) through Trimountain can take approximately 5 hours, so plan accordingly.
There is a small shelter with a logbook located near the Route 68 end of the trail. Other amenities are minimal.
The park features a classic trap rock ridge hike and one of its overlooks is a known roosting site for vultures, offering a unique wildlife viewing opportunity.
📸 📸 Photography
The scenic overlooks provide great vantage points for capturing reservoir views and the surrounding landscape. The rocky terrain also offers interesting photographic textures.
Yes, one of the overlooks is a known roosting site for vultures, making it an excellent spot for observing and photographing these birds in their natural habitat.
Landscape photography is ideal, especially from the overlooks. The rugged trails and rock formations also lend themselves to nature and adventure photography.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions on personal photography in Trimountain State Park, but always be mindful of other visitors and the natural environment.
Early morning or late afternoon light can provide beautiful golden hour shots, especially over the reservoir. Midday can be harsh but still offers good opportunities at the overlooks.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
💪 Experienced Hikers
📸 Nature Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Hiking the Mattabesett Trail
Hikers can access the trail from various points, including Howd Road, Route 68, and Route 17. The terrain is characterized by rocky scrambles and occasional downed trees, adding to the adventure. While not the most scenic section of the larger New England Trail system, Trimountain offers a solid workout and a chance to connect with nature.
Scenic Overlooks and Wildlife
While the overlooks are a highlight, it's worth noting that one reviewer mentioned the proximity of a nearby shooting range, which can detract from the feeling of being fully immersed in nature.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit