First Day Hikes 2025

Founded in 1998, the Friends of Gillette Castle State Park are a community of volunteers with a shared appreciation for the historic and unique Gillette Castle and the legacy of William Gillette.The park is managed by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP), and we supplement their work by engaging the local community in:  events and activities that keep the spirit of William Gillette alive, small scale restoration and trail projects on the park grounds, and advocacy to ensure adequate funding and support for this unique Connecticut gem.Our mission is to support and promote the preservation of William Gillette's legacy, the conservation of park grounds, and the restoration of Gillette Castle, in partnership with DEEP.Membership, volunteers, and donations fuel everything we do.  We invite you to join us whether you live nearby or far away. We always welcome new members!

The Friends of Gillette Castle State Park

Start the year with fresh air and sunshine!  Join a guided hike of the train trail, and rejuvenate with free hot cider afterwards!

Gillette Castle State Park

Join us on a guided hike of the route followed by William Gillette's narrow-gague train. Gillette's train system runs through very scenic areas of the 122 acre state park, with numerous historic features along the way. The hike is a about an hour and fifteen minutes, and is generally gentle and flat trail with a couple of brief scrambles.After the hike, rejuvenate with some free hot cider at the Visitor Center.The hike is limited to 20 visitors, and REQUIRES advance registration. Sturdy shoes and warm clothing is recommended. To ensure the comfort of all hikers, please leave your pets at home, or take a walk without a trail guide (leashed dogs are allowed at the park). We hope to see vou there!

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First Day Hikes 2025

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First Day Hikes 2025

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