This Lakefront Cottage Is the Perfect Home Base for Connecticut’s Best Hiking Trails

Where do you think the best hiking trails in Connecticut reside? Do you prefer coastal paths that hug the water, or are you more interested in wandering through a thick forest with vibrant shades of green everywhere you look? For me, I’m all about those mountain views. Luckily, this waterfront cottage in Watertown is the perfect home base for exploring some of Connecticut’s most scenic hiking trails. Let’s check it out:

Whenever I’m on a nature-driven getaway, I always match my lodging to be as nature-inspired as possible. This waterfront cottage in Connecticut is just the ticket for a weekend of hitting the trails and enjoying beautiful scenery from the moment you wake up. The cottage overlooks Lake Winnemaug, and boy oh boy, do you have a front-row seat to view the lake!

The cottage has four beds and can accommodate up to six guests comfortably, but I think I’d keep it to two people max for the ultimate bang for your buck. The rental is a hybrid of a traditional cabin and a glamping cabin. There is WiFi, a fridge, and an air fryer for cooking, but there is no running water. There is a bathroom with a toilet, but no indoor shower. Instead, guests can use the outdoor shower that’s fitted with solar bags, and water is provided. 

Since this is a nature-driven getaway, we’ve got to talk about the hiking trails in the area. The Nonnewaug Falls Trail is only six miles away, and it’s the perfect beginner-friendly trail. It’s about a mile long, the route is very easy, and it leads to a waterfall finish—short, sweet, and scenic!

If you’re looking for more of a challenge, consider the Whitestone Cliffs Trail. The two-mile loop trail is considered moderately challenging, but the views pay off well. For a unique hike with a fascinating history, check out the Leatherman Cave Trail.

If you really want to challenge yourself, check out the Jericho and Mattatuck Trail. This out-and-back trail is just shy of eight miles and has an elevation gain of 1,800 feet. It’s a beautiful hike through the Mattatuck State Forest that includes a waterfall, a forest hike, some rock scrambling, and even some tree-top views. A little bit of everything all rolled into one hike! Keep this hike in mind for the fall, judging by the photo above, it looks like a great spot to do a little leaf peeping!

After a long day of hiking, return to the cottage and enjoy an evening on Lake Winnemaug. Guests are welcome to use the kayaks/canoes to paddle around, or you can build a fire in the fire pit on the edge of the lake and enjoy a sunset over the water. Keep an eye out for the resident bald eagles that live in the area! The lake is stocked with fish, and if you’re patient, you’ll catch an eagle swooping in for a snack. 

Visit the Airbnb listing to check dates and availability and start planning your nature-driven getaway today! Don’t forget to share this article with your favorite hiker pal who’s always itching to get back on the trail.