Although it’s not quire fall yet, the weather is starting to say, “Get your boots on and go outside already.” The heat is starting to take a backseat, and the leaves are just beginning to shift towards beautiful yellows, oranges, and reds. Maybe hiking sounds ambitious, or maybe you’ve got tiny humans (or short legged dogs) in tow who think uphill = torture.

Fear not. The Farmington Valley is packed with beginner friendly trails that deliver fresh air, gorgeous scenery, and zero need to train like a marathoner. Here’s your guide to getting out there without breaking a sweat and appreciating the season:

Blazer’s Trail – Avon
The Blazer’s Trail is right behind the Roaring Brook School playground and open to the public whenever school is not in session. You can park in the school lot, which makes getting there a breeze. Expect a short loop, about 15 to 20 minutes, with instructional kiosks and a tiny amphitheater tucked into a wooded hill. It is a great hike for curious minds of all ages. While short enough that everyone survives, it is also long enough that everyone feels accomplished.

Bunker Hill Trails – Canton
The Bunker Hill Trails sound like they belong in Boston, but you will find them right in Canton on the east side of Bunker Hill Road. Search "Bunker Hill trailhead" on Google Maps to spot it. Only roadside parking is available. Expect a 1 mile out and back wooded walk along a tributary to Cherry Brook. If you feel like you need a bit more, the Baker Trail is nearby.

Tulmeadow Farm and Woodlot – Simsbury
Tulmeadow Farm has what many call the best ice cream around, but did you know you can hike right from the store? Just park behind the shop and look for the Simsbury Land Trust trailhead. The trail offers level to gently rolling ground through corn and hay fields and Tulmeadow’s woodlot. You can spot Heublein Tower in the distance, and informational signs along the way explain the farm and its surrounding geology. Best part? Ice cream is waiting for you when you finish the 3 mile trek.

John McManama Nature Trail – Farmington
Located next to West District School, the John McManama Nature Trail is a quick 0.9 mile loop. Since it sits right by the school, it is closed during school hours, but otherwise open to explore rolling terrain, small ascents, and descents. It loops back via a paved path. It is short, sweet, and perfectly manageable.

Westmoor Park Trails – West Hartford
Westmoor Park is a place I bring my family to again and again. My kids love checking out the animals like the chickens, horses, and pigs. Don't forget to head inside to see the birds and reptiles too. Beyond the farm animals, the park features 162 acres to explore. The trails wind past pine and deciduous trees, ponds, meadows, and gardens. It offers a little bit of everything, almost like a sampler platter of the New England outdoors.

Here’s what’s on deck this week around the Valley — mark your calendars!

Look for icons to find your crowd: 🎈 kid-friendly • 👤 adult • 🌞 all ages

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