Mt. Tom w/ Connecticut River, by Richard Nowak Walking, hiking and running are the few remaining safe, healthy and mentally recharging activities during this unusual period of pandemic. While many of Connecticut’s parks and beaches have been closed, hidden treasures of natural beauty are nearby, offering safe accessible escapes. Short adventures, lasting a few hours or a whole day, can be quickly reached from most parts of Connecticut. An outdoor trip permits responsible social distancing, and the opportunity to get much needed exercise and leave the confinement of the four walls of home. Castle Craig, Meriden, CT Connecticut has more than 130 State Parks and Forests with endless miles for a walk, run, or a quiet spot to just sit and relax. While the State Parks along the shoreline are familiar to many of us, most of Connecticut’s parks are located inland. The Connecticut State Park network was thoughtfully planned more than 100 years ago to preserve unique places of natura