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Trail to the top of East Rock.


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Map Key

1.2

Miles

2.0

KM

82%

Runnable

336' 102 m

High

165' 50 m

Low

292' 89 m

Up

229' 70 m

Down

8%

Avg Grade (5°)

28%

Max Grade (16°)

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · Geological Significance · Views

While there is a road that leads up to the summit of East Rock (Farnam Drive), it is currently closed to motor vehicles. However, it is open for both bicycles and foot traffic.

Description

This trail begins at the trailhead at Whitney Circle on Farnam Drive. It quickly ascends upward towards Whitney Peak via another small overlook. It is important to note that this part of the trail is not incredibly well maintained or marked, so care is recommended. Whitney Peak is a small traprock summit that provides views of the city.

After this peak, the trail descends slightly and heads towards Farnam Drive. It crosses the road and climbs a small set of well-constructed stone stairs. Here, the trail double tracks with White Trail. From this point onward, the trail is much more well maintained than before. It continues up slightly and continues over Farnam Drive once again.

As the trail approaches the summit area it sticks close to the western side of the road. In many areas here, the trail narrows and comes very close to the edge. In these areas, it is very reasonable to detour on the road. All along this stretch of trail, there are wonderful views of the city below.

Upon reaching the summit area, the trail passes the English Shelter. The trail passes through the rest of the summit area which features picnic tables, an observation platform, benches, and the Soldiers' and Sailors' Monument.

Finally, the last section of the trail departs from the summit area and descends East Rock's Giant Steps. These are large, jagged stone steps that are challenging, steep, and very cool. The trail descends on these stairs to its terminus and intersection with White Trail.

Contacts

Shared By:

Patrick Neary with improvements by Daniel McCloskey

Trail Ratings

  4.0 from 2 votes

#14165

Overall
  4.0 from 2 votes
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Trail Rankings

#104

in Connecticut

#14,165

Overall
2 Views Last Month
107 Since Mar 6, 2020
Intermediate Intermediate

50%
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Photos

East Rock's iconic Soldiers' and Sailors' Monument.
Apr 4, 2021 near New Haven, CT
New Haven from the summit of East Rock.
Apr 4, 2021 near New Haven, CT

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Unknown
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