The Quinnipiac River State Park hugs the Wilbur Cross Parkway to the west and the river of the same name to the east.
In between are acres and acres of riverscapes, wetlands and green forest that provide a refuge of quiet hiking and open space.
For some six miles the natural trail runs along the flood plain of the river bank from North Haven to Wallingford, and eventually connects with the trail system in Hamden.
The park, a state-regulated hunting area, was first formed when the Wilbur Cross Parkway was built in the 1930s-40s.
The southern portion of the area previously was the home to a small community of residents. But increasing problems with flooding and other concerns, led the homeowners to abandoned their properties.
The state Department of Environmental Protection bought the residents out, and finally took over control of the land in 1972.
Over the last several years the water quality of the lower portion of the river, which runs through the park, has improved. This has led to a jump in the area's biodiversity.
Case in point is the first recorded over-wintering — and possible permanent residence — of two bald eagles in the winter of 2006-07.
The park also boasts robust wild turkey and deer population, as well as the occasional otter, great blue heron, kingfishers, osprey, owls and wood duck nests in dead trees.
The Quinnipiac State Park Trail is accessed off Banton Street in North Haven. Use of the park is free. Pets are allowed along the trail but they must be leashed.
For more information, view the state park's page on here. And for a good pre-trek primer of general hiking tips, check out this of basic do's and don'ts.
