Four Historical Gems in the Constitution State

Rich in maritime history and boasting part of the culturally resonant Appalachian Trail, Connecticut’s ever-scenic portion of the trek ranges from wooded and wild to pastoral. As for the rest of its National Park Service-managed lands, you’ll no doubt find a spot to suit your speed.

Washington-Rochambeau Revolutionary Route

A National Historic Trail, the Washington-Rochambeau Revolutionary Route, runs through Maine, Road Island, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia and Washington, D.C. It is where George Washington’s Continental Army and General Rochambeau’s French Army joined forces to fight the British Army, leading to a victory at Yorktown — and, ultimately — American independence.

Weir Farm

A National Historical Park in Ridgefield and Wilton, Connecticut, Weir Farm lets you walk in the footsteps of America’s most beloved Impressionist, J. Alden Weir, exploring his home and studio, as well as 60 acres of woods, fields and waterways that inspired countless artists across generations.

New England Trail

The 215-mile New England Trail — a National Scenic Trail — extends from Long Island Sound to Connecticut and Massachusetts’s soaring mountain summits, revealing historic villages, traprock ridges, rambling farmland, untouched forests, trickling streams, thunderous waterfalls and sheer river valleys. Check out interactive newenglandtrail.org to get informed, find a hike and hit the trails.

New Haven

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Housatonic River

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Christopher Luther