Of all the trails, this state park features my favorite! It’s also the closest, bestest, mostest trails near me. This state park sits in the center of wooded lands and parks.
This has to be one of the most prominent trails and hikes in the area.
It’s always a fun reward when you get to the top and get to see the beautiful Hublien Tower. In the spring, summer and fall its open Friday thru Monday 10 to 5! Yup – you can go inside! Plan for 20 to 30 minutes to tour the rooms, read about the history of the tower, and climb several stairs to a viewing area at the top. Windows cover all sides at the top of the tower and you’ll enjoy impressive views of the Farmington Valley, hartford, Massachusets, New York, and beyond! Bring lunch or snacks, there’s a large outdoor picnic area as well.
But mostly I visit here for runs with good elevation, good company (always see folks hiking here) and impressive views. I love park hopping as well. Talcott Mountain State Park is close to Penwood State Park, Auer Farm State Park, West Hartford MDC reservoirs, Avon Land Trust land… and all of these places extend beyond to more parks. The unifying trail is the blue-blazed Metacomet Trail (now also nationally recognized as the New England Trail). Enjoy a few photos!
TRAIL INFO
Parking: During the summer, park at the large trail entrance at the top of the hill. During the winter months, park at the base of the hill near the yellow gate. There is parking for around 50 cars along the side of the road/driveway.
Popular Route: Most people take the main trail, the yellow blazed, gravel/rock trail to the Hublein Tower. Round trip is around 3 miles, 550 ft elevation.
Bathrooms: Self-composting toilets are at the beginning of the hike, and at the top of the hike. There are also bathrooms at the base of the tower that are open when the tower is open.
Attraction: The Hublein Tower is open spring, summer, and fall on Fridays – Monday’s 10am-5pm. It’s a neat museum (a historical vacation home), and the top features a 360 view!