The Pine Knob Loop Trail

The AT Pine Knob Junction

Mr. Drew on the Trail

    Located in Northwestern Connecticut, The Pine Knob Loop Trail is one of the States Premier Blue Blazed Trails.
 Access to the trail is found in Housatonic Meadows State Park.  The trail head is right off Rt.7.    The trail makes its way up along a small stream to the AT.  From here it goes up to the  two look out areas on the Pine Knob and back down to the parking areas.  I would list the trail as moderate in difficulty.  There are no real rock scrambles, but there is a good amount of elevation gain.  On the way down you will in counter some steep sections.  Views from the look out areas are fantastic!  I would rate the first one an 8 out of 10.  As i mentioned earlier part of the Pine Knob Loop is the AT.  So if you are looking to extend your hike a little or all the way to Maine you have the option. Also, the Mohawk trail is only a mile to the south of the Pine knob loop/AT junction.  Trail Condition is excellent and well marked.  You will also find the Housatonic River across the street from the trail head and it is known for good fishing.  The Housetaonic Meadows camp ground is located .5 mile north of the trail head on RT 7 and in my opinion is the best in CT.  Housatonic State forest is located at the top of the hill and it is open to hunting.  So wear your orange and or go hunting.  Tons of stuff to do in this area and i am glad to have enjoyed some of it.  

Here you go Alan

    My Visit to the Trail was last week.  We parked on RT 7 and went up the trail to the AT where we quickly made our way up to the first look out.  From here we stayed on the AT for a while before we turned around and headed back to the Loop trail.  At  the second lookout area we had a hot lunch of  Mountain house and headed back to the parking area.  We had a nice over cast day with a breeze and cool temps.  I did hike part of this trail on a really hot day over the summer and found it tougher with the heat and humidity.  Along the way we did come across a steep incline going up to the second look out area, however, it was short and not a problem.  We took a break at the second area and ate lunch which i fired up with the snow peak giga power stove.  The hot mountain house was great since it was about 50 degrees out.  The Leaves during our hike were starting to turn and made of awesome scenery.  In all it was a great day to get out and enjoy some hiking.  I strongly recommend a visit to this area for any outdoor activity.