Scenic trails in Connecticut are great. There’s nothing like the joy of exploring Nutmeg State wilderness and state parks in CT. Stumbling upon a hidden waterfall or beautiful fall foliage is an experience like no other. But if you start to feel like you’re getting bored of traditionally beautiful scenery, there are some unique hikes in Connecticut that can provide you with other kinds of thrills. One particularly creepy trail in Connecticut is at Gay City State Park in Hebron. We love this haunted state park in Connecticut, which has natural beauty but also contains the remnants of an abandoned village. A hike on the Gay City State Park trails will show you all the natural beauty you’d expect from a state park, but you’ll also get to see gravestones and old ruins from the days when these woods contained a thriving town.

This tranquil scene doesn't look like what you probably think of when you hear the term "ghost town in Connecticut." It looks like your typical quiet state park in CT.
Roger Barthelet/Alltrails
However, the Gay City State Park trails are not what they seem. This state park lies on the ruins of Factory Hollow/Gay City (the town's name changed during its lifetime).
K Soban/Alltrails
Gay City was first settled in 1796 by the leader of a religious sect. It grew with time, eventually numbering around 25 households. Most were members of the Gay family, hence the town's name.
Deb London/Alltrails
The little town was at one point quite self-sufficient, having a sawmill and wool mill. Gay City thrived for many years, but fighting within the community led to its decline and the town had pretty much died out by the Civil War.
Joanne Britton/Alltrails

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The land was eventually transferred to the state and became a state park in CT in 1944.
Dave G/Alltrails
It's now home to one of the most unique hiking trails in CT. Some old remnants of the town remain, most notably structures like this and various grave markers.
David Bernor/Google Maps
It's easy to see why Gay City State Park is considered haunted, as there's something eerily beautiful about the scenery here.
Walking through the park, it's easy to forget that this was once a thriving community. It's only when you stumble across the occasional gravestone that you think about all of those who lived and died here.
Robert Starkey/Alltrails
There are rumors that Gay City State Park is haunted. Some hikers report hearing drunken brawls or seeing ghostly specters out in the woods. Are you brave enough to tackle the creepiest hiking trail in CT?
Christina Vaiciulis/Alltrails

Head to the website for Gay City State Park for the most up-to-date information. You can get more information about the Gay City State Park trails from our friends at Alltrails. If you’re an avid hiker, consider signing up for a free trial of Alltrails+, which gives added benefits like downloadable trail maps.

Have you ventured out to this haunted state park in Connecticut? Do you think Gay City State Park is haunted? Share your experiences and thoughts in the comments!

Looking for more spooky spots? Check out these haunted places in Connecticut.

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Hiking Trails In CT

Rachel Raimondi | February 13, 2023

Which state parks should I visit in Connecticut?

If you want to get outside and explore the Nutmeg State, there are some great state parks in CT:

Devil’s Hopyard State Park: This 1,000-acre park is located in East Haddam. There are several hiking trails available as well as stream fishing, bicycling, and camping.

Dinosaur State Park: Located in Rocky Hill, this 80-acre park’s main focus is the preserved dinosaur tracks from a 200-million-year-old Dilophosaurus. Here, you can also head to the exhibit center, arboretum, and some nature trails.

Bigelow Hollow State Park: With over 9,000 acres, you’ll find plenty to do in this Union park. There are five miles of trails to hike and fishing, boating, and swimming opportunities in the pond.

What are the best beaches in Connecticut? 

If you want to take a refreshing dip while in the Nutmeg State, know that you can find some of the best beaches in Connecticut. Here are just a few options:

Hammonasset Beach State Park: At 600 acres, this park along the Long Island Sound in Madison has the largest beach in the whole state. Swim or kayak here and enjoy the luxury of also having a boardwalk to stroll and concessions available. You can also camp here.

Silver Sands Beach State Park: Aside from swimming, there is quite a bit of exploring to do at this state park in Milford. Be sure to check out Charles Island and its ruins and possible treasures.

What are the most charming small towns in Connecticut? 

For those who like exploring new places, check out some of these charming small towns in Connecticut:

Milford: Although not far from New Haven, you can experience real small-town life here within the Old Town Milford area and its historic district. And don’t forget the access to the water and the second-biggest green in New England.

Washington: Located in Litchfield County, here you’ll have the convenience of both worlds: many shopping and dining options and great proximity to the Berkshire Mountains.

Chaplin: This Windham County town will provide visitors with some quiet country life. You won’t find tons of shopping or tons of restaurants, but you will find peace. Explore the outdoors through several farms or the Natchaug State Forest.

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Gay City State Park, 435 North St, Hebron, CT 06248, USA