Macedonia Brook Loop via Macedonia Ridge Trail
6.5 mi
Distance
3 hrs 12 min
Time
terrain
689 ft
Elev Gain
Overview
This is a difficult loop trail in Macedonia Brook State Park, CT.
There are some nice views on top of Cobble Mountain and along the western ridge. A detailed trail map can be found here.
Getting Started
Park in the first parking area on the left (about 1.5 miles after entering the park) at 41.760971 -73.493886. For a clockwise loop the trailhead for the Macedonia Ridge Trail (blue blazed) is right at the parking spot, for a counter-clockwise loop the trailhead is across the road about 400 feet to the south.
Rate this Hike
★★★★★
I’ve lived here for awhile, and somehow this escaped me. It’s a great hike, with unexpected views that were well-earned with some climbs, but not too rigorous. Hiked counterclockwise, there is one section of cliffs that I wouldn’t attempt with a child carrier, but it’s a solid 3-4 hours of rewarding hiking.
★
★
★
★
I suggest to do this loop counter-clockwise, as there's a moderate rock scramble and a series of steep rock slabs (about 4 miles in) which are going to be much easier climbing up than down (especially if it's wet or icy). I also find it more gratifying to get the nice views of the distant Catskills on top of Cobble Mountain as a reward at the end, instead of the beginning of the hike.
★
★
★
