Tidal Marsh Trail - North Haven, CT
Tidal Marsh Trail – Dog-Friendly Hiking in North Haven, Connecticut
Tidal Marsh Trail offers dog owners and outdoor enthusiasts a scenic place for pet-friendly hikes along the Quinnipiac River in North Haven, CT. While not a traditional fenced dog park, this area is popular for dog-friendly walking and adventure, with easy-to-moderate trails, unique views of Sleeping Giant State Park, and fascinating discoveries like abandoned railroad tracks and buildings, including the local “polar bear” sculpture. The natural setting is teeming with wildlife, including ospreys, herons, turtles, and more, making each walk a memorable experience for both dogs and owners.
Located just behind Target on Universal Drive, Tidal Marsh Trail is ideal for those seeking dog-friendly hiking near North Haven. Visitors should be aware of seasonal pests like ticks and come prepared with bug spray and appropriate clothing. The paths offer shady sections and a few benches where you can pause to enjoy peaceful river views or let your pet rest. This trail is great for family adventures, pet owners looking for an outdoor outing close to town, and anyone interested in local urban art and nature.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, Tidal Marsh Trail features pet-friendly hiking trails that wind along the river and abandoned railway lines.
- Is there shade or shelter available? Yes, much of the trail passes through wooded areas providing natural shade.
- Are there benches or seating areas for owners? There are some benches along the trail where visitors can sit and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
- Is the park muddy after it rains? Some trail sections can become muddy after rain, so proper footwear is recommended.
- Are ticks or other pests common in the area? Yes, ticks can be common here, so wearing long pants and using bug spray is advised.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, the trails connect throughout the area, including paths to cool abandoned buildings and unique art installations.
Reviews
If I were with a group I’d have went further in. It’s a really raw trail. Bends and turns. Blind spots. Right trees and branches. You can’t really see ahead too far bc of trees and bushes. But the trail is clearly marked nonetheless. I just didn’t feel comfortable going too deeply in alone. As I was leaving I saw more people going in. The views were magnificent. I wasnt the only one out there for photos. I could see going to just sit in the bench in peace. Wear bug spray, long pants and sleeves, and cover your hair!
We spent a couple hours on this trail. The kids love picking up sticks and rocks on the way, and enjoy discovering ruins and parts of the abandoned railway. Some parts are easy to hike and some aren’t. Great place to have a little adventure with young children!
Nice easy trail along the Quinnipiac River. Across the Quinnipiac River, you can see Sleeping Giant State Park Mountains in the background.
To find the Polar Bear , you have to finish the Marsh Trail and then get into the White trail it’s a little tricky .
Once you are on the white trail, you follow that all the way down, and you will run into an abandoned building. I side this building you will find the Polar Bear.
There are so many cool things to see on this trail , I would recommend it to anyone .
This is a nice area to hike when it gets back open. You can follow the trail and if you’re lucky, find the metal polar bear. You are also able to see different kinds of wildlife, such as what I believe to be osprey, some red tail hawks and some herons. As well as turtles. if you’re into the art of graffiti there is graffiti and various areas. You will find this located right behind Target.
Ticks, lots of ticks… but big abandoned building bear sculpture which is cool!! You walk along a river for most part then along old abandoned railroad tracks with some cool abandoned buildings along the way to the bear… but seriously so many ticks