Mount Tom State Park

Low-​profile state park with a small but well-​cared-​for beach and facilities. The real fun here, though, is the hiking trail to the top of Mount Tom, with its medieval-​feel stone tower, which provides stellar views of the surrounding countryside.
The hiking trail is poorly marked near the bottom, and it’s a bit challenging (think slippery rocks) in spots. But after a scramble of about 20 – 30 minutes, you get to the tower at the top. The steep staircase inside is its own challenge, but the views at the top are spectacular. (Supposedly, you can see Long Island Sound on a clear day, but I’ve never even gotten close to that.)
A great little foliage adventure in the autumn. Fun in summer too, when you can reward your sweaty self with a cool dip after your hike.