Nehantic State Forest

Highlights

A bigger, woodsy ride for riders who want room to roam

Riding

This is the kind of place that rewards riders who enjoy woods, variation, and a little more sense of space around them. The ride can feel peaceful and immersive, with enough mileage and forest atmosphere to satisfy horses and riders who prefer substance over spectacle.

Rideable terrain

12 miles

Trailer parking

Nehantic feels more traditionally forested and a little less curated on arrival, so coming prepared matters. Use designated parking, keep trailer expectations practical, and treat the day like a forest ride that rewards riders who handle their own logistics well.

Horse regulations

Ride only on routes where horses are permitted and check posted information before heading out. Standard Connecticut guidance applies: avoid restricted or foot-only sections, stay on trail, respect muddy conditions, and ride with courtesy around other forest users.

Getting here

The Route 156 access is straightforward, but the destination reads more rustic than polished, which many riders will see as part of the appeal. Plan ahead, arrive with the official map in hand, and expect a simpler self-sufficient kind of start rather than an amenity-heavy one.

Planning your visit

No horses are provided, and the forest works best for riders bringing their own horse and a clear plan. Because hunting takes place in many Connecticut state forests, blaze orange and current seasonal awareness are especially important here in fall and early winter.

Where to stay

There is no horse camping here, so Nehantic is strongest as a day destination for riders who want true forest character without committing to a full horse-camp weekend. Pair it with a relaxed coastal-Connecticut overnight and it becomes an especially nice contrast day.