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Fitness Challenge

You can run your own version of a triathlon any time you want in Connecticut’s Quiet Corner, and you can make it as difficult or gentle as you wish. Some times of the year, you’ll have many of these venues virtually to yourself, too, so make your plans, bring along your bikes/kayak and/or skis and get busy!

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Natchaug State Forest Air Line State Park Trail Kayaking on the Salmon River Bigelow Hollow State Park
Natchaug State Forest

Natchaug State Forest

Warm up with a hike (or a run, if you insist) through Natchaug State Forest in Eastford. There are numerous loops available from the Kingsbury Road parking area. Natchaug is an extensive wooded playground, known for picnicking, fishing, horseback riding trails and hiking - and it will interest history buffs, too. The large stone fireplace and chimney are the remains of the birthplace of General Nathaniel Lyon, the first Union General killed in the Civil War.

Air Line State Park Trail

Next, depending on outdoor conditions, it's cycling or cross-country skiing time along the remarkable, historic Air Line State Park Trail. Built in 1870 as a railroad right of way, the trail runs today from East Hampton to Pomfret in two sections - in all, it’s 50 miles through the towns of East Hampton, Colchester, Hebron, Lebanon, Columbia, Windham, Chaplin, Hampton and Pomfret, with an extension to Putnam and Thompson. Do as much or little bicycling or skiing as you want – the idea is to enjoy the fresh air, easy roadbed and panoramic views.

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The Inn at Woodstock Hill

The Inn at Woodstock Hill
The Vanilla Bean Café

The Vanilla Bean Café
Salmon River State Forest

Kayaking on the Salmon River

Leave from the Salmon River State Boat Launch in East Haddam for a very pleasant 4.5-mile paddle up and back on one of Connecticut’s loveliest rivers. Any non-motorized vessel is welcome.

Bigelow Hollow State Park

Bigelow Hollow State Park

If snowshoeing is your thing, carbo-load at breakfast for your third adventure. After checking out of the B&B, opt for snowshoeing a loop in Union’s Bigelow Hollow State Park, or hiking if there’s not enough snow cover. Bigelow Hollow State Park and the adjoining Nipmuck State Forest offer over 9,000 acres of recreation opportunities including miles of hiking trails and an 18-acre pond.
 

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