Details
Trail Length: 6.5 miles
Towns: Plainfield, Voluntown
Allowed Uses: Hiking
Partners: Connecticut Department of Energy & Environmental Protection (CT DEEP)
Trail Overview
Located within Pachaug State Forest, the Quinebaug Trail is a moderate trail that passes over gentle hills, wanders through pine forests, and follows woods roads. The gradual ascents and descents make winter snowshoeing a viable option as well as hiking or trail running. Excellent bird-watching opportunities abound at Lockes Meadow Pond and surrounding wetlands. Connecting trails link to both the Pachaug and Nehantic Trails.
Keep an eye out for old stone foundations, the Phillips Pond picnic area, and an unmarked side trail leading to a rock pile known as Devil’s Den. Many marked trails intersect the Quinebaug and allow for various loop opportunities. Parts of the Quinebaug Trail coincide with the Multi-use Trail which is primarily a motorcycle trail (marked with red arrows).
Longer backpacking trips can be achieved by linking the Quinebaug, Pachaug, Nehantic, and Narragansett Trails. Four overnight shelters in the State Forest can be used by backpackers on a first-come, first-serve basis. For more info on the backcountry shelters and to reserve a space, click here.
Part of the Quinebaug Trail in Pachaug State Forest is used for the annual motorcycle Enduro Race. For more info on the Pachaug State Forest, click here.