The Natchaug Trail is an 18 mile Blue Blazed CFPA Trail in the Windham County Area. It passes through James L Goodwin State Forest and Natchaug State Forest.

In Depth Guide

The Natchaug Trail shares its start with the Nipmuck Trail and was created sometime around the early 1970s. Natchaug is a Nipmuc Native American word that means ‘land between 2 rivers’. The hiking or trail running is relatively easy along this route with very few hard climbs or hard rocky sections under foot,but the low lying nature of this trail means much of the trail can be wet in places so be prepared and bring bug spray most of the year round.

There are camping spots in both of the State Forests along the trail. Almost all of the trail is surrounded by areas that are active in hunting so you should try to wear bright colors during hunting season.

James L Goodwin Forest

This forest is named after James L Goodwin who donated the land. He was one of Yale Universities first Forestry Graduates and began using modern forestry management in the area.

Natchaug State Forest

The Natchaug State Forest has the Natchaug River running through it.

The Bulk of the trail meanders next to or near either Bigelow Brook or the Natchaug River.

Just before you reach James L Goodwin Forest you’ll find the Orchard Hill Lockout and the Cascade Falls.

Nathan Lyons Memorial Park

Nathaniel Lyon was the first Union General to die in the Civil War and there are memorials to him in the state park int he form of the fireplace and chimney that still stand from the house he used to live in.

Airline State Park Linear Trail

The Airline State Park Linear Trail runs through James L Goodwin Forest at the Southern end.

Parking Info

Northern Trail Head

Southern Trail Head