Walking & Hiking in Norfolk, CT

Safely Enjoying the Great Outdoors

Norfolk and the surrounding towns offer miles of hiking trails, plus the scenic Rails-to-Trails line that once carried trains through Northwestern Connecticut. Whether you’re into geo-caching, casual strolls, or challenging hikes, there’s something here for everyone.

The key to enjoying these trails is preparation. Search and Rescue professionals say most emergencies could have been prevented with a little planning. With the right steps, your adventure will be safe, fun, and memorable.

Before You Go

  • Check the weather forecast and dress appropriately.
  • Tell someone your planned route, start location, and return time.
  • Practice short hikes to build stamina before attempting longer ones.
  • Charge your phone fully and pack a small backup charger.
  • Download maps ahead of time (many parts of Norfolk have no service).
  • Always hike with a buddy—never alone.

👉 Click here for FREE Trail Maps of Norfolk and Litchfield County
(Trail maps include public parking locations. Click a highlighted trail for details.)

If You Get Lost

  1. Stay calm and stop moving. Wandering makes rescue harder.
  2. Call 911 if you have cell service (dispatchers can often locate your call).
  3. Stay put and make yourself visible to rescuers.
  4. Remember: 95% of rescues happen within 6 hours.

In Case of Emergency

If you encounter someone in distress:

  • Stay with them (or leave someone with a phone).
  • Call 911 and provide:
    • Names and ages of those involved
    • Number of people in the group
    • Injuries and medical needs
    • Where they started and what they drove
    • How long they’ve been in the woods

👉 The Norfolk Volunteer Fire Department has trained responders and a Utility Quad with a backboard to assist in rescues.

The Modern 13 Hiking Essentials

Bring these items every time you head out:

  1. Navigation Tools – Printed map & compass, downloaded phone maps
  2. Charged Cell Phone & Backup Power – Portable charger & cable
  3. Hydration – Sufficient drinking water + pet water if hiking with a dog
  4. Nutrition – Energy bars, granola, trail mix (avoid salty foods)
  5. Sun Protection – Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses
  6. Proper Clothing – Weather-appropriate layers, sturdy footwear (no flip-flops)
  7. Illumination – LED headlamp or flashlight with spare batteries
  8. First-Aid Kit – Bandages, ointment, gauze, personal medications (EpiPen, inhaler, insulin, etc.)
  9. Fire Starter – Waterproof matches, lighter, small tinder
  10. Repair Kit – Duct tape, rope/webbing, pocket knife
  11. Shelter – Emergency bivvy bag or lightweight tarp
  12. Signaling Devices – Whistle, mirror, or old CD for reflecting sunlight
  13. Trash Bag – Pack it in, pack it out!

Wildlife & Outdoor Safety

  • Norfolk is home to black bears, coyotes, bobcats, moose, snakes, ticks, and deer.
  • Never approach wildlife. Use “bear bells” to avoid startling animals.
  • Carry bug spray to protect against ticks and mosquitos.
  • Be alert for heat exhaustion in summer and hypothermia in winter.

Quick Safety Reminders

✅ Stay on marked trails—no shortcuts.
✅ Hike year-round but watch conditions (ice, storms, high heat).
✅ Make your presence known with noise in dense woods.
✅ Keep matches and fires controlled—extinguish fully before leaving.
✅ Respect the forest: take photos, not souvenirs.

Emergency Numbers

📞 911 – For all emergencies (lost, injured, or in distress)

📞 Litchfield County Dispatch (LCD) – Non-Emergency Line: [860-496-0711]
📞 Norfolk Fire Department – Non-Emergency Line: [860-542-5021]

✨ Most of all: bring your camera and binoculars—capture the beauty of Norfolk!