Hiking with Dogs at Hewitt Farm 🐾
Walking in the crisp New England air, with leaves rustling beneath your feet and your dog’s tail wagging excitedly, is pure magic. For dog lovers in Southeastern CT, hiking with dogs at Hewitt Farm is the perfect way to enjoy nature, breathe fresh air, and bond with your pup. Whether you’re a seasoned trail explorer or new to hiking, Hewitt Farm offers a beautiful blend of nature, history, and dog-friendly fun.
Exploring Hewitt Farm 🌳
Nestled along the Shunock River, Hewitt Farm boasts over 100 acres of open fields, woodlands, and wetlands. The well-maintained trails🏔️ are both peaceful and engaging, ideal for on-leash pups and their humans. Dogs will love the variety of terrains—from grassy paths🦗 to shaded woodsy areas—and you’ll love the views of the river and the old mill dam.
One highlight is the Bicentennial Trail, which leads to Tipping Rock, a massive glacial boulder that’s a fun pit stop and a great photo op! The trails are easy to moderate, making hiking with dogs at Hewitt Farm accessible for most dogs and pet parents.
📍 Trail tip: Be sure to bring water 💦for you and your pup and keep an eye out for wildlife along the way—there are often deer and small critters that might pique your dog’s curiosity!
The History of Hewitt Farm 🏡
Hewitt Farm is rich with history. Once home to a woolen mill and family farms, it still holds echoes of its past. Remnants of the old mill near the dam and the John Dean Gallup farmhouse (circa 1750) offer a glimpse into Connecticut’s colonial roots. Walkin
g the trails feels like stepping back in time—while your pup enjoys sniffing scents from the present!
For more about the farm’s history, visit the Hewitt Farm Committee’s page
Dog-Friendly Adventures Near Hewitt Farm 🐕
After your hike, why not explore more? There are plenty of dog-friendly spots nearby:
- Barkin’ Barley Taproom & Coffeehouse (4 miles)
Enjoy a coffee or pint while your pup relaxes at this dog-friendly gem. - Barn Island Wildlife Management Area (9 miles)
Coastal trails and open spaces for adventurous dogs who love new scents. - Olde Mistick Village (10 miles)
A dog-friendly stroll with outdoor shops and scenic paths perfect for cooling down after a hike. - Dog Watch Cafe (10 miles)
A dog-friendly cafe to grab some grub after a nice hike.
Why Join a Barks Community Hike? 🦴
Our monthly community hikes, facilitated by Barks & Recreation, are all about fostering community, making memories, and learning about all the great hiking spots in our area. All while keeping you and your dog living your best lives🤼. Whether you’re new to hiking in the woods or a regular trailblazer, it’s a great way to meet fellow dog lovers and explore Southeastern CT’ hiking spots.
Our community hikes are free to everyone and are always the 3rd Saturday of the month at 10 AM—we’d love to see you and your pup there! Hewitt Farm is our January 2025 hike, check out our Facebook group, Barks Community, or the info about each month here.
Trail Etiquette and Tips 🥾
You can learn more about trail etiquette here, but TLDR:
- Leash up: Even if your pup is friendly, not all dogs are comfortable off-leash. Keeping your dog leashed ensures a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.
- Pack the essentials: Bring waste bags, water, and maybe a trail treat to keep your pup energized.
- Respect the space: Stick to the paths and clean up after your pup to keep Hewitt Farm beautiful for all visitors.
Plan Your Visit 🗺️
Location: Hewitt Farm, 43 Hewitt Rd, North Stonington, CT
Hours: Open from dawn to dusk
Parking: Free, with plenty of space at the main lot
Whether you’re looking for a peaceful escape or an adventurous social outing, Hewitt Farm offers something special for dogs and their humans alike. Join our Barks Community hike and make some new friends (two- and four-legged alike)! 🐾
We hope to see you on the trail!
