Backpacking 101 At Bigelow Hollow State Park, A Hidden Connecticut Wilderness Off The Map

Nestled Deep in the rolling hills of Connecticut is a place where most locals seem to have forgotten. Bigelow Hollow State Park, long known for it's recreational boating and swimming, weighs in at an anemic 516 acres. But when coupled with hiking trails in nearby Nipmuck State Forest, you have some serious potential to get lost.

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Breakneck Pond is a scenic distraction, and the hub of this hiking loop.

The woods of Bigelow Hollow aren't as evil as they look in this picture.

Pond-side campsites are a luxury, and there's at least 3 to choose from here.

As spooky as that may sound, don't be afraid. Consider this dynamic duo the perfect "Intro to Backpacking" course. It has well-marked trails that have challenging spots that aren't life-threatening. It has plenty of water. Most importantly, it has beautiful and isolated campsites, making you feel like you're really alone in the middle of nowhere. On a July 4th weekend, we were the only campers. The next day, on the long hike back to the parking lot, only two other pairs of hikers were spotted. For a tiny state with 4 million people living in it, you'd be amazed at how alone you'll feel!

The wildlife does a good job hiding out in these parks, but if you're quiet and observant enough, you're bound to come across deer, frogs, fish, beavers, and many different species of birds.

The trail network in Bigelow Hollow allows you to adjust your loop between 8 and 12 miles. If you were so inclined, you could complete this hike in a day. But what's the rush, when you can bring some marshmallows and hotdogs and get a taste of outdoor life. That's right, open fires are permitted.

As an added bonus, for a few minutes you'll cross the state border into Massachussetts. Just say the words "Multi-state hike" together. That's bound to make your coworkers think you're out of your damn mind Monday morning.

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