Case Mountain — Attraction in Glastonbury

This trail is one serious work out if you experience it to the fullest. There are a couple entrances to the location, and I prefer the more quiet one off of Birch Mountain Rd., but there is another one at the base of the mountain that is across the bridge from Highland Park Market. Be sure to bring a water bottle and snacks to this area because it is an intense vertical climb to get top-side. Beware the misleading signage that points you towards "the cabin;" this area is right by the water and gets very muddy and hard to traverse. I would recommend following the white trail if you are coming from Birch Mountain, or the pink trail if you are coming from the Highland Park area. However you may choose to get there, the view at the top is worth the walk, and on a clear day (like today for me) you can see for miles, peering off into Downtown Hartford and Manchester alike. I love it here, for sure. Proper attire is required as there many rough and rugged paths, and could be harsh on the feet and ankles. There are a couple of swampy areas, so if you are there in the summer time, be sure to equip yourself with bug spray so that you don't get...

Case MTN is absolutely beautiful anytime of the year that it's accessible. I say this because it can be nearly impossible to climb after snowfall. We entered by the Spring st side of the mountain on the Fourth of July to see the fireworks from the hill. It's a great view for miles & makes for a fun spot to watch several different shows. Groups of people gather there every year. Oops, did I just spill the secret? The walk up can be a bit strenuous. It's not exactly an easy climb. To the victor go the spoils, & what a majestic view to be rewarded with if you can best the climb. I've spent many wonderful days & nights at Case & find something new often. There's another entrance on the Vernon side of the mountain located on Birch Mountain road. Aptly named for its many birch trees. The hike to the peak on this side is a much softer incline & is probably better for those who can't make the more challenging incline on the Spring st side. Please remember to use these trails responsibly. The beauty of these special places isn't a privilege, it's a responsibility. One that we all should be mindful of when enjoying the wonders of the...

This is a nice peaceful spot right in the middle of Suburbia. In less than a minute from the highway exit you can be parked, and at the trailhead. The nice thing about this is that they were a multitude of ways to get up to either Lookout or Case Mountain. You can take a quick 15-minute hike up to the top, or you can make it a seven or eight mile Loop if you want. Every trail that I've been on is suitable for young kids, and the ones that don't go the shortest route to The Summit are usually never crowded. You will find some broken glass and trash at the top of Lookout, but overall the area is pretty well-maintained. This is a nice Day hike, you can make it a half hour, or you can make it an all day affair if you want. Keep an eye out for mountain bikers on some...