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The New England National Scenic Trail (or NET) is one of several trails that were added to the United States' list of eleven National Scenic Trails in 2009. The trail is 215 miles long and trails through some of New England's most historic regions. What better way to explore the charm of New England?
New England is famous for its rich colonial history and for its picturesque autumn foliage. The region is steeped in history and has some of the oldest general stores in the country that are still operating. The New England Trail combines history with scenic landscapes and goes through Massachusetts and Connecticut. While in Massachusetts, explore Boston's Freedom Trail and learn about the birth of the nation.
How The New England Trail Explores The Best Of New England
The NET travels through some of New England's classic landscape features - one will see forests, large river valleys, and rural towns. Hikers see colonial historical landmarks and a range of ecosystems - mountain ridges, forested glades, wetlands, lakes, waterfalls - much of the best New England has on offer.
- Designated: March 30, 2009
- Length: 215 Miles or 346 km
- States: Connecticut and Massachusetts
While the trail may be impassible in winter from snow, the fall presents an opportunity to see the best of New England's famous autumn foliage.
The New England Trail has been in existence for over half a century and is composed mainly of the historic Mattabesett, Metacomet, and Monadnock (M-M-M) Trail systems.
Three Main Trails Of The New England Trail:
- Metacomet-Monadnock Trail
- Mattabesett Trail
- Metacomet Trail
The New Hampshire part of the M-M Trail is not included in the New England Trail. While the New England Trail designation terminates by the New Hampshire state line, one can continue hiking up further and deeper into New England on interconnecting trails.
The trail is closed to motorized transport and is only open to hikers. The highest point is Mount Grace (1,617 feet) and ranges from moderate to strenuous. The hiking season is longer than many of the National Scenic Trails that cross mountain ranges with the hiking season lasting from spring to fall.
- Hiking Season: Spring To Fall
The NET is administered by the National Park Service and managed by the Connecticut Forest and Park Association and the Appalachian Mountain Club - they are both volunteer and not-for-profit organizations. For detailed and up-to-date information about the trail, refer to the trail's official website the website also maintains an interactive map of the trail.
Long-Distance Hiking The New England Trail
At 215 miles long, the New England Trail is considerably shorter than many of the other great National History Trails. But while it is much shorter, a traditional thru-hike (like one does on the Appalachian Trail) is not currently possible.
- Traditional Thru-Hiking: Not Possible On The New England Trail
That is because they don't have the infrastructure in place and the region is densely populated. Still, it is possible to hike the full length of the trail by being creative and flexible. The New England Trail Organization details how this is possible.
Much of the NET passes over private property. It is asked that hikers treat the trail with respect and leave no trace behind and not leave the trail. Do not stealth camp as the trail is possible only by the generosity of the landowners.
Camping Accommodation On The New England Trail
There are a number of camping options, but they are still rather limited. The trail has only relatively recently received a National Scenic Trail designation and the densely populated nature of this part of New England limits the overnight site options.
There are currently nine designated overnight sites on the New England Trail. Note that camping is only permitted at overnight sites. Pets are permitted but on a leash.
- Camping Sites: 9 Designated Overnight Sites
- Accommodation Types: Cabins, Lean-tos, and Campsites
There are a few cabins, lean-tos, and campsites along the trail. These help hikers to go for long-distance hikers on the trail. The cabins can be reserved in advance while the lean-tos are on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Learn more about the camping sites on their website.