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While not the most secluded run in the area, this short out and back leads to a unique destination with memorable views.


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Map Key

2.8

Miles

4.5

KM

81%

Runnable

914' 278 m

High

383' 117 m

Low

644' 196 m

Up

644' 196 m

Down

9%

Avg Grade (5°)

36%

Max Grade (20°)

Dogs Leashed

Features Fall Colors · Views

The road that leads to Castle Craig is open from May 1 through October 31 from 10 a.m. to 4:45 p.m.

Overview

At just under 3-miles round-trip, this out-and-back run is a great option for a quick outing or for families with young children or beginner runners. The climb ends at East Peak where you'll find the unique vantage point of Castle Craig, a stone observation tower reminiscent of a Middle Age castle.

Description

The run starts from the small parking area northwest of Mirror Lake. If this small trailhead is full, you can park in the large lot to the east and run along the paved Mirror Lake Drive to reach the trailhead.

From the trailhead, start your run on the White Trail. This trail is wooded and roughly parallels the highway. While you won't escape the traffic noise, the dense trees do at least make this section a bit more pleasant. About 0.5 miles into the trail, you'll use a pedestrian bridge to cross the highway.

Once across the highway, the White Trail climbs a bit more steeply until coming to a junction with the Red Trail. Stay to the left here to continue on the Red Trail. This short trail connects back to the White Trail 0.2 miles later. Alternatively, you can stay on the White Trail or take it as an alternate route on the way back down to add a little variety to your run.

After rejoining the White Trail, keep an eye open on your left for the White Spur Trail. This short connector climbs steeply up to the Metacomet Trail and the parking area at the summit of East Peak. Perched at the southern end of the parking area near the edge of the rocky outcropping, you'll find the Castle Craig observation tower. This stone tower stands 32 feet high, and from the top, runners can enjoy 360-degree views of the Meriden area.

After enjoying the views, simply retrace your steps back the way you came, or, if you are looking for a longer run, explore some of the other trails that Hubbard Park has to offer.

History & Background

For more information on the history of Castle Craig, click here.

Contacts

Land Manager: Meriden Land Trust

Shared By:

Kristen Arendt

Trail Ratings

  4.4 from 13 votes

#1

in Hubbard Park

#591

Overall
  4.4 from 13 votes
5 Star
46%
4 Star
46%
3 Star
8%
2 Star
0%
1 Star
0%
Recommended Route Rankings

#1

in Hubbard Park

#1

in Connecticut

#591

Overall
245 Views Last Month
40,064 Since Nov 1, 2018
Intermediate Intermediate

6%
17%
44%
17%
17%
0%

Photos

Castle Craig on a chilly fall day
Nov 12, 2018 near Meriden, CT
Castle Craig
Nov 8, 2018 near Meriden, CT
Sleeping Giant seen from Castle Craig
Nov 8, 2018 near Meriden, CT
View looking south from Castle Craig
May 28, 2019 near Meriden, CT
Castle Craig - great hike even on a somewhat gloomy day
Apr 21, 2019 near Meriden, CT
Part of the view near the castle.
Aug 14, 2023 near Meriden, CT

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