Known for its rolling hills and forests, it's easy to forget that Connecticut was once home to volcanoes. But one of its most notable natural wonders is a testament to its long geological history and volcanic beginning. Sleeping Giant is a collection of trap rock ridges that has drawn visitors for years. But the view of the ridges is almost as fun as a visit to the park itself. Probably because the ridges look like a man asleep on his back!
Sleeping Giant even has a legend to go with it.
Native-Americans believe that an angry spirit once inhabited the land, stomping around and making loud noises. A good spirit, called Kietan cast a spell to help him sleep, and there he lies even to this day. But what makes it a geological oddity?
This fault-block ridge was formed 200 million years ago, and despite the lack of any active volcanoes, small earthquakes have occurred over the years. The concentration of iron inside the volcanic rock gives the ridges a reddish hue, making it a colorful sight all year long. But that's not all.
It has a number of microclimates and most of them are unusual for the New England area. Tree rots cling to the cliffs, rare non-native plants grow here, and a number of birds migrate here. It's even host to animal species that are considered globally rare. This ridge is like its own little world with its own unique ecosystem.
The dramatic cliffs provide excellent views, but the real sight is the ridges themselves. This place is definitely worth exploring.
To get an idea of what the hike is like, check out this video:
Sleeping Giant certainly sets itself apart from other outdoor destinations in the state. If you've hiked this place before, tell us about it! And check out this Haunted Hike for another odd experience in the Connecticut hills.
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