Mianus River State Park Scenic Reserve - Stamford, CT
Mianus River State Park Scenic Reserve – Dog-Friendly Trails and Nature in Stamford, CT
If you’re searching for a top dog park in Stamford, Connecticut that offers plenty of nature, hiking, and space for your pup, Mianus River State Park Scenic Reserve is a fantastic choice. Spanning beautiful woodlands and scenic riverside trails, this pet-friendly park welcomes local dog owners to explore miles of picturesque, well-maintained paths. Many describe it as a tranquil escape in Fairfield County where you can feel far from city life, featuring a range of trails with both challenging elevations and easy, flat areas. This park is perfect for dog-friendly hiking and enjoys a reputation for cleanliness, natural vistas, and a peaceful atmosphere even during busier weekends.
While this is not a traditional fenced dog park, dogs are a common sight on the hiking trails and fields—just be sure to follow posted leash requirements and stay alert for horses, kids, and other park visitors. Water views, lush tree cover (great for shade), and shallow streams add to the park’s natural appeal. Parking can be limited, especially during peak times, so plan ahead. While amenities like playgrounds, sports fields, and picnic spots make this park great for families, pet owners will appreciate the sense of freedom and the authentic outdoor experience that Mianus River offers their furry companions.
FAQ
- Are dogs allowed off-leash at this park? Dogs must be kept on leash while visiting the trails, especially due to shared use with horses and other visitors.
- Is there a fenced area for dogs? No, there is no specifically fenced dog area at this park.
- What are the park’s leash requirements? All dogs should be kept on leash while enjoying the park’s trails and open spaces.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, there are extensive hiking trails throughout the Mianus River State Park Scenic Reserve.
- Is there shade or shelter available? Yes, the park is heavily wooded and offers plenty of shady areas, especially along its trails.
- Is there a playground or activities for kids nearby? Yes, the park features a playground and additional recreational amenities for families.
- Is there parking available? Yes, limited street parking is available, but some weekends may be busy.
- How busy does the park get on weekends? The park can be busier on weekends but tends to remain peaceful and not overly crowded.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, the park is known for its scenic and pet-friendly hiking trails.
Reviews
This is a wonderful park with tons of great trails and the ability to walk anywhere from half a mile to 6 mi really easily. Some of the trails have challenging elevation and others are flat. You would never know you were in the middle of Greenwich and Stamford when you are hiking in this park because you’re in a gorgeous woods and it feels like you’re in the middle of nowhere. And there are not even that many people using it. I hide here on a Saturday afternoon on a gorgeous July summer day and only saw about 10 people in 2 hours.
Beautiful park! My 4 month old and I walked about a mile in along the River. It was peaceful and a relatively easy walk. Not stroller friendly, no bathrooms that I saw. Although, the old barn could be converted possibly! Beautiful stroll, would highly recommend.
Peaceful walk in the woods with a few small, gentle hills. Limited street parking. There are a few small, shallow streams to cross by stepping from stone to stone. In October, the paths are covered by leaves, so watch your step. There are small (1.5 ft.) obstacles for horses to jump. Keep dog on leash in case of meeting a horse or another dog.
Maybe it’s the quarantine talking but REALLY ENJOYED the quiet walk along the newly established trail that follows the river opposite of the area that allows bikes and dogs. Granted there were a lot of people milling around, it was still super peaceful and mostly well kept.
Great forest for hiking. If you familiar with Geocaching there is a lot of interesting hides around here