Racebrook Tract - Orange, CT
Racebrook Tract: Dog-Friendly Hiking Trails in Orange, CT
Racebrook Tract is a popular destination for dog owners seeking an adventure in nature near Orange, Connecticut. This pet-friendly space boasts a vast network of well-marked hiking trails—including the Red, Purple, and White loops—perfect for dog-friendly hiking and scenic walks among pine and deciduous trees. The trails range from easy, wide paths to more challenging, unmarked tracks with a few steep climbs and rustic bridges over brooks. The peaceful, serene environment makes it a favorite for local dog walkers and families alike.
Visitors enjoy plenty of open space, the sounds of local wildlife, and access to a large, flat parking lot with room even on busy days. While the area is generally well maintained, be aware that some muddy patches may appear after rain, and trash can occasionally be an issue in certain sections. Racebrook Tract does not have a designated fenced dog park area, but leashed, well-behaved dogs are welcome to explore the extensive trails. For those looking for dog walking in Orange, CT, or a pet-friendly hiking experience close to town, Racebrook Tract offers a refreshing outdoor retreat.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, there is an extensive network of well-marked hiking trails with a variety of loops and scenic paths.
- Where is the best place to park? The park features a very large and flat parking lot that is easy to find and generally has open spaces, even when busy.
- Is the park muddy after it rains? Some parts of the trail can be muddy, especially after rainfall, so plan accordingly.
- Is there shade or shelter available? There are plenty of shaded areas throughout the wooded trails, providing relief on sunny days.
- How busy does the park get on weekends? The park can get popular with many cars in the lot, but there is usually still plenty of space on the trails.
Reviews
parking lot is a great size very flat and easy to moderate. too much trash for some reason these places especially the valley area Antonia, Derby, orange all do not understand how to clean up after themselves. trails you can see the blazes but need to be bigger a little confusing. also many trails not even marked I thought
I’m not a fan of walking on a trail but this one is super special. It’s so peaceful and serene.
I walked with my mom and mom-in-law and we brought our 2 dogs.
Paopao loves it so much.
We saw woodpecker. It was so cute.
Highly recommended!
Easy well marked trails and lots of space to explore smaller paths off shooting from the main larger loops. Brooks, trail biking, dog walking, unpaved, wide trails, a mix of deciduous and pine, a few vernal ponds with seasonal peepers, and you may spot deer and turkey occasionally. This is a local favorite spot of mine to really feel like you’re in the woods without having to drive too far.
Hiking Trail Review
Race Brook, Pine, and Wepawaug Trail – ~3 Miles
Trailhead is very easy to find. Very large parking lot so parking shouldn’t be that difficult. The trail is very popular and there was a lot of cars but still plenty of open spaces. The trail is very well marked and maintained. Some intersecting trails as well and connectors to other nearby trails. A bit muddy today but otherwise great!
We had a great hike here with our two dogs. We took the wide loop: Red, Purple, White trails. There are also several smaller unmarked trails off of the main trails, but there are some pretty steep parts on those, and some sketchy bridges over streams on the smaller trails. The main trails have a lot of rocks and tree roots to trip on, but overall they are pretty good trails.