Autumn is a favorite time for hiking in Connecticut. Cooler temperatures and a stunning array of changing leaves to color the landscape make outdoor adventures enjoyable. For a short hike that leads to fall foliage views that stretch on for miles, climb Chauncey Peak.

Find the Chauncey Peak Trail winding through Giuffrida Park in Meriden. With an elevation of 351 feet, this trail leads to an incredible vista where the scenery stretches on for miles.

AllTrails/Dan Dilbeck

Begin with a walk alongside the beautiful reservoir under the canopy of changing leaves. Pace yourself, the entire trail is just over two miles and this first bit is the easiest.

Flickr/Morrow Long

While the views from the bottom of the park are incredible in the fall, you’ll want to take the time to ascend to the top.

AllTrails/Leah Pinette

Expect some rocky terrain as you head toward the peak but it’s nothing too strenuous. Once you achieve the overlook, you’ll feel like you’re on top of the world.

AllTrails/Justin McEntee

180-degree views show the glassy surface of the reservoir framed by a carpet of green, golds, and reds. This is the kind of scenery that you find on the front of postcards.

AllTrails/Julie Turner

Soak in the autumn colors, these views of endless color only happen once a year.

AllTrails/Julie Turner

The loop trail should take between 1 - 1 1/2 hours to complete but if you linger a the top for an extended stay, plan on allowing more time. Dogs are allowed to hike the trail too but must be kept on a leash.

AllTrails/Julie Barnofski Portfolio Find Giuffrida Park and the Chauncey Peak Trail at 800 Westfield Rd.. Meriden, CT 06450. The park is open sunrise to sunset daily.

Have you ever hiked to the top of Chauncey Peak? Share your experiences and photos in the comments section below or in our Connecticut Nature Lover’s Group on Facebook. Check out this other great fall hike that takes you to a sweet observation tower.

AllTrails/Dan Dilbeck

Flickr/Morrow Long

AllTrails/Leah Pinette

AllTrails/Justin McEntee

AllTrails/Julie Turner

AllTrails/Julie Barnofski Portfolio

Find Giuffrida Park and the Chauncey Peak Trail at 800 Westfield Rd.. Meriden, CT 06450. The park is open sunrise to sunset daily.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.