Community Corner
6 Can’t-Miss Hikes Near Madison
Get outside and explore — these nearby hikes offer everything from easy strolls to more challenging treks for every kind of adventurer.
Madison is full of opportunities to get outside and explore the great outdoors. Whether you're looking for a quick stroll or a more challenging trek, these can't-miss hikes in and around Madison offer something for every kind of adventurer.
Please note: Drive times are approximate and may vary based on your starting point and traffic. Be sure to check for trail closures and consider weather conditions before heading out.
1. Bailey Trail North
📍 Route 80 & Hammonasset River, Madison, CT
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A mostly easy ~1.5-mile out‑and‑back trail along the Hammonasset River gorge featuring mossy cliffs and historic mill remnants. Expect gentle terrain with optional rocky sections where footing may be more challenging.
2. Bailey Trail South (& Cider Mill Spur)
📍Georgetown Circle Cul‑De‑Sac, Madison, CT
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An easy-to-moderate 2.6-mile loop hugging the river, with scenic pools, rapids, stone walls and remains of a circa‑1720 sawmill. The trail features a mix of hardwood and hemlock, with occasional wet spots and boardwalks.
3. Shoreline Greenway Trail (Hammonasset Segment)
📍Hammonasset Beach State Park, Madison, CT
A flat, accessible one-mile paved multi-use path perfect for walking or biking, offering serene coastal scenery and excellent birdwatching opportunities. The trail connects the beach, downtown and the park with zero elevation gain.
4. Rockland Preserve
📍South of the Durham border off Route 79, Madison, CT
A hilly, rocky preserve with cliffs, ledges and old charcoal pit sites, ideal for hikers and mountain bikers. Expect moderate difficulty with uneven rock terrain and woodland atmosphere.
5. Mica Ledges Preserve
📍59–69 Cream Pot Road, Durham (15 minutes from Madison)
A versatile 1.2–2.5 mile trail network featuring woodland paths and challenging rock outcrops capped with sweeping viewpoints. Suitable for hikers seeking moderate terrain with occasional steep inclines.
6. Cockaponset State Forest
📍Cedar Lake Road, Chester, CT (25 minutes from Madison)
Part of Connecticut’s second-largest state forest, featuring miles of varied terrain — including ridgelines, wetlands and mixed forest — across a sprawling network. Difficulty ranges from easy to moderate, depending on the route; ideal for exploring more remote and peaceful landscapes.
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