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Hubbard Park: A Natural Oasis in Meriden

Discover natural beauty and recreation at Hubbard Park in Meriden, CT, featuring hiking trails, scenic views, and historic Castle Craig.

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Hubbard Park, nestled in the Hanging Hills of Meriden, Connecticut, offers 1,800 acres of woodlands, scenic views, and recreational activities. Established in 1898 and donated by Walter Hubbard, the park features Mirror Lake, Castle Craig, and numerous trails, providing a natural escape for all.

A brief summary to Hubbard Park

  • Monday 8 am-10 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-10 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-10 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-10 pm
  • Friday 8 am-10 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-10 pm
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit Castle Craig for panoramic views, but check the seasonal road opening times (typically May to October).
  • Explore the Metacomet Trail for a challenging hike with rewarding vistas.
  • Attend the annual Daffodil Festival in late April for a vibrant display of flowers, food, and entertainment.
  • Enjoy the Festival of Silver Lights during the winter holidays for a magical, illuminated experience.
  • Pack a picnic to enjoy by Mirror Lake or in one of the designated picnic areas.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the intersection of West Main Street and Mirror Lake, enter the park and follow the paved road towards Castle Craig. The walk to the base of the peak is a moderate incline, taking approximately 30-40 minutes. From there, you can either hike up the trail or continue along the paved road, which is open seasonally, to the summit. No costs are associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    From the Meriden Transit Center, take the CTtransit Route 565 towards West Main Street. Disembark at the stop closest to Smithfield Avenue, a short 4-minute walk to Hubbard Park. From there, enter the park and follow the paved road towards Castle Craig. The one-way fare for the bus is $1.75.

  • Driving

    From I-691, take Exit 4 for Route 322/Southington. Turn left onto West Main Street. Hubbard Park will be on your left in about a mile. Parking is available near Mirror Lake. During the Daffodil Festival, parking within the park is unavailable, but free shuttle services are provided from designated parking areas, such as the Meriden Mall. Parking at the park is free.

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Discover more about Hubbard Park

Hubbard Park, a sprawling 1,800-acre park located in the Hanging Hills of Meriden, Connecticut, has been a beloved landmark since 1898. Donated by Walter Hubbard, president of the Bradley & Hubbard Manufacturing Company, the park was designed in consultation with the Olmsted Brothers, sons of Frederick Law Olmsted, the designer of Central Park. Hubbard's donation stipulated that the park remain free for the people of Meriden, with no commercial concessions allowed. The park's diverse landscape includes woodlands, streams, dramatic cliff faces, and flower gardens. Mirror Lake serves as a centerpiece, offering a tranquil setting for visitors. Castle Craig, a stone observation tower atop East Peak, provides panoramic views of the Quinnipiac Valley and beyond. The park is also home to the James Barry Bandshell, hosting concerts and festivals. Hubbard Park offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, biking, and picnicking. The 51-mile Metacomet Trail traverses the park, offering challenging hikes and scenic vistas. The park is also known for its annual Daffodil Festival in the spring and the Festival of Silver Lights in the winter, drawing visitors from all over. The Hanging Hills themselves are a geological wonder, formed by volcanic activity 200 million years ago. The resulting trap rock ridge offers dramatic landscapes and unique hiking experiences. Hubbard Park stands as a testament to the vision of Walter Hubbard and the enduring appeal of natural spaces.

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