Paffard Woods - Stonington, CT
Paffard Woods Dog-Friendly Trails in Stonington, Connecticut
Paffard Woods offers a scenic woodland escape on the north side of Stonington, Connecticut, featuring pet-friendly hiking trails perfect for stretching your legs with your furry companion. This beautiful nature preserve is known for its well-marked loop trails, picturesque stone walls, unique rock outcroppings, wildflowers, and the tranquil sights of a bubbling brook. Trails are suitable for gentle hikes, though visitors are encouraged to watch their footing for rocks and tree roots, especially during the fall leaf drop.
While Paffard Woods is not a traditional fenced dog park, it provides a peaceful, dog-friendly hiking environment where leashed pets are welcome to explore. The car park accommodates around 10 vehicles, but the entrance is narrow—drive with care. Bring your own supplies for your pet, as there are no designated dog water fountains or enclosed off-leash areas. This lovely spot is ideal for anyone seeking pet-friendly trails in Stonington and a relaxing nature experience within Connecticut.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, Paffard Woods features wooded loop trails marked with blue blazes, ideal for walking or hiking with dogs.
- Is there shade or shelter available? The park’s wooded environment offers plenty of natural shade along the trails.
- Where is the best place to park? There is a small parking lot at the entrance on N Main St that can fit approximately 10 cars. The entrance is narrow and flanked by stones, so drive carefully.
- Is the park muddy after it rains? Parts of the trail can become slightly muddy after rain, so appropriate footwear is recommended for you and your pup.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, the area is known for its well-marked loop hiking trails suitable for dogs on a leash.
Reviews
Not a long hike, but a nice short one that’s good for stretching out your legs. Very nice scenery also.
Nice little wooded area with a hood riding/running trail.
Really enjoyed the interesting Stone walls and trees and rocks growing together on this hike. Took about an hour to do the largest loop but we went slowly and it was relatively easy to hike. Just need to watch where you are walking because of all the wonderful rocks. The brook was a deep amber color and very pretty.
A loop trail but in the fall the leaf litter makes it hard to see what’s going on and where the trail is and covers a lot of hidden tree roots so pay attention to your footing. The trail is marked by blue blazes on the tree. Stick to the trail since private property and a military recreation area are adjacent. Despite the fact hunting isn’t allowed, several of the metal signs have bullet holes…so maybe wear orange? The car park can probably fit about 10 cars and has a really narrow entrance flanked by stones so take care when driving in.
This is a great place for a short hike. Trails are well marked and maps are posted at intersections. Trail conditions are good, there are some easy inclines, a slightly muddy part, and a few areas that are rocky. There are many interesting features including some large rock outcroppings, many wildflowers and a beautiful little river. Disappointing that someone had harvested some mushrooms. This is a nature preserve, take only pictures, leave nature where it belongs so others can enjoy it.