Welcome to Our Hammonasset Recreation Area

Lake Hammonasset opened in 1990, offering 10 miles of trails around the reservoir. Allow several hours for a moderately challenging hike all the way around the lake. Take the trails around the peninsula for great views of the lake and to see rock “caves.” If you want the same opportunity for great views of the lake, but prefer a short hike, the Hemlock trail is minutes from the parking lot.

Please stay within the boundaries of the recreation area at Hammonasset. Your safety and the safety of our drinking water are our primary concerns. Please abide by our rules and regulations and encourage others to do the same.

A Guide to the Trails at Hammonasset

Here is a brief description of the trails at Hammonasset.

Remember: Permit holders receive easy-to-read trail maps with detailed descriptions. As a permit holder, you can also enjoy the convenience of free parking and a system-wide trail guide as well as invitations to guided nature walks, our annual kids fishing derby and other special events which are only open to our permit holders.

Hemlock Trail

0.6 Miles

This trail offers scenic views of the Lake Hammonasset shoreline and rock formations along a small peninsula. In the spring you may hear the sound of the waterfall from the dam as you walk this trail. This is the best trail for a short walk and a good place for observing waterfowl.

Hammonasset Trail

6 Miles

This trail offers enthusiastic hikers the opportunity to hike completely around Lake Hammonasset. On the east side of the reservoir, the footbridge at the north end of the reservoir is 2.3 miles from the parking area. Notice the evergreens planted along the edge of the lake to keep the leaves of deciduous trees out of the water. This leaf screen extends along the lake’s shoreline to protect our water supply.

Indian Cave Trail

1.4 Miles

This trail offers spectacular views of the lake and caves where Native Americans once found shelter. Expect some rough and uneven terrain.

Lookout Trail

0.1 Miles

Offers a lookout point. where you can stop and rest.

Peninsula Trail

0.9 Miles

This loop continues to the end of the peninsula from the Indian Cave Trail and offers a nice south-facing view of the lake.

Lake View Trail

0.6 Miles

This trail offers an alternate route closer to the lake than main Hammonasset Trail on the west side of the lake.

Oak Shortcut

0.2 Miles

Provides a shortcut between trails at the head of the lake.

White/Yellow Connectors

0.1 Miles.

Another shortcut between trails at the head of the lake.

For more information, please call the Regional Water Authority Recreation Department at 203.401.2654.