Hiking & Riding
Steep Rock Association’s 4 unique preserves offer some of the most beautiful hikes in Northwest Connecticut. Spanning over 47 miles, our trails offer everything from a leisurely stroll along the Shepaug River to more rigorous hikes leading to spectacular views. Trail maps are located in the kiosks at the entrances to each preserve and highlight the distance of each blazed trail.
Hiking
Steep Rock Association’s 4 unique preserves offer some of the most beautiful hikes in Northwest Connecticut. Spanning almost 47 miles, our trails offer everything from a leisurely stroll along the Shepaug River, to more rigorous hikes leading to spectacular views. Trail maps are located in the kiosks at the entrance to each preserve and highlight the distance of each blazed trail or view and download below:
Trail Maps
Horseback Riding
Both Steep Rock and Hidden Valley Preserve offer scenic trails for horseback riding and have trailer accessible parking. In addition, Steep Rock Preserve offers a riding ring, where riders can let their horses roam while they enjoy lunch at the nearby picnic tables. Designated riding trails are marked on the respective Hidden Valley and Steep Rock Preserve maps.
2023 Notice: While equestrian trails will be open, horse trailers will not be allowed in Steep Rock Preserve after April 1 due to the Tunnel Road Bridge replacement.
Trail Maps
Biking
Steep Rock Association offers mountain biking on certain trails at our Steep Rock and Hidden Valley Preserves. Biking trails are generally flat and wide, located along the Shepaug River at both preserves. Please reference the Steep Rock and Hidden Valley trail maps for designated biking trails.
Trail Maps
FAQS & Rules
Please respect the land by following the rules listed below. If you have any question please do not hesitate to give us a call @ (860) 868-9131 or email us HERE.
- Leave No Trace.
- Do not remove or disrupt plants, wildlife, or materials.
- Open sunrise to sunset, daily.
- Park cars in designated areas.
- Motorized vehicles are prohibited beyond parking areas. Use of Other Power-Driven Mobility Devices is restricted. For more information and approval, contact the SRA office.
- No hunting.
- No alcoholic beverages.
- No loud noise or music.
- Drones are prohibited.
- Dogs must be leashed at all times and all pet waste bagged and removed from the preserves.
- Fires are prohibited, except in designated campsites.
- Camping is prohibited expect in designated campsites. Campsite reservations are required.
- Horseback riding is permitted according to posted signs on approved trails.
- Do not harm trees by chopping, carving or driving nails.
- Do not litter: please carry out what you carry in.
- Groups of 15 people or more require a group use permit.
- Commercial activities are prohibited without a permit issued by the Executive Director and/or Board of Trustees.
- Cross-Country Skiers: Please set tracks on one side of the trail only.
- Hikers, Snowshoers and dogs please respect ski tracts by keeping to the other side of the trail.
- Stay on the designated trail and please obey seasonal postings.
- Do not speed. Speed limit is 15 mph.
- Dismount when approaching horses.
- Always yield to people on foot.
- No more than four riders in a group.