 Founded in 1895 |
Hiking Information |
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Taking a hike?
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Founded in 1895 |
Hiking Information |
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Make sure you have the latest issue of The Connecticut Walk Book. The Walk Book includes maps and descriptions of the 700 miles of Blue Blazed trails in Connecticut, tips on what to wear, equipment to bring, and what to do in case of an emergency.
Check out "Rules of the Road for Hikers" - "Restrictions In Use of Trails" and "Hiking Safety" before using the Blue Trails.
Rules
of the Road for Hikers
General
On the Trail
While Camping
Hikers travel at their own risk. Public Act 249 of them 1971 General Assembly limits the liability of property owners of land used for recreational purposes. The law provides that persons using land for recreational purposes are not relieved of any obligation to exercise care in their use of the land. The law has been upheld by Connecticut courts as it applies to private landowners. (Also see the section on 'Landowner Liability Law' in the Connecticut Walk Book)
Fires must not be lit except where OFFICIALLY designated fireplaces have been provided. Hikers should be particularly careful with matches, pipe heels, and cigarettes stubs. Severe penalties are imposed by law for setting fires intentionally or by carelessness.
Access to trails may be denied on a temporary basis. This could occur when forest operations are taking place that would place the trail user at risk of injury. Land managers may also close trails to certain types of used on a seasonal basis to reduce erosion or damages to the trail. Trail users should obey these restriction.
State Lands
The use of off-road vehicles (ORV's), other motorized vehicles, and of mountain bikes is prohibited on Blue-Blazed Hiking Trails located in Connecticut State Parks and Forest. The exception is where the Blue Blazed Trail follows a wood road and is considered a multi-track path or is designated and posted as such by the Connecticut DEP. The Association would like to receive information about any unauthorized use of trails.
Private Land
Except on state land, which is open to the public for designated use, our trails exist only by the courtesy and the agreement of the landowners. Hikers must follow the route indicated and not roam through the property at will. CFPA has made agreements with the landowners for the use of their land for hiking trails. The Blue Blazed Trails are designed for foot traffic only and since CFPA has not received permission for use of these trails by vehicles - motorized or mountain bikes - this use is prohibited. Hikers should constitute themselves a voluntary patrol to see that the 'Rules of the Road for Hikers' are followed.
Carelessness by a hiker or misuse by others may cause a trail to be closed.
You may report dangerous trail conditions or misuse to CFPA by e-mail.
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CFPA, which sponsors and maintains 800 miles of Blue-Blazed Hiking Trails, wants to remind the public that many of CFPA's Blue trails pass over land where hunting is allowed. For detailed information on allowed hunting areas and seasons check the CT. DEP site. The majority of hunters out in woods, fields and wetlands are responsible individuals. By taking a few precautions trail users can insure everyone's safety. During hunting season. 1. DO wear bright colors such as florescent orange. 2. DO attach a bell to your pack or to the collar of your dog, that will alert hunters to your presence. 3. DO NOT wear white, gray, brown or tan. 4. DO NOT stray from marked trails. 5. If you see someone hunting call out to them to identify your location. 6. There is no hunting allowed on Sundays. At all times. 7. Familiarize yourself with the area you will be hiking. 8. You should not hike alone, but if you do - let someone know where you will be and when you plan on returning. |
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