From the Sound to the summits: the New England Trail covers 235 miles from Long Island Sound across long ridges to scenic mountain summits in Connecticut and Massachusetts. The trail offers panoramic vistas and close-ups of New England’s natural and cultural landscape: traprock ridges, historic village centers, farmlan
Free — you won’t need your pass here.
Free entry — there is no entrance fee here, so you won’t need your pass to get in.
- Fee type No fee — No fee is charged here.
- HoursAs the New England trail crosses private property and state land, many locations along the trail do not permit night hiking or overnight parking. Before going out on a hike, check the hours of local parks for parking and
- Source National Park Service ↗
- Last verifiedJuly 6, 2026 · Confirmed
- Official pagewww.nps.gov ↗
- Contact 413-351-8182 · net@nps.gov
More than 100 public roads cross the New England Trail, and there are trail head parking areas at or near many of these crossings. Detailed Trail Maps are available from Appalachian Mountain Club and Connecticut Forest & Park Association. For Massachusetts maps, visit the AMC Berkshire Chapter; for
Common questions
Quick Yes / No / Depends answers for New England National Scenic Trail — always confirm with the managing site before you go.
No Is there a fee at New England National Scenic Trail?
No — it’s free to enter, so you won’t need your pass to get in.
Yes Can you camp at New England National Scenic Trail?
Yes — camping is available. Reserve ahead where required; you can check availability on Recreation.gov.
Depends Can you have a campfire?
Sometimes — campfires are subject to seasonal fire restrictions and bans. Always check current fire conditions first.
Yes Are there hiking trails?
Yes — hiking is one of the listed activities at New England National Scenic Trail.
Depends Is there winter recreation?
Yes — snow and winter activities are available seasonally. Check conditions and closures before you head out.
Depends Can you bring a dog?
Usually only leashed and in developed areas, campgrounds, and paved paths — not on most trails or in buildings. Pet rules vary by park, so check first.
No Are drones allowed?
No — launching, landing, or operating drones is prohibited on National Park Service land.
Depends What are the hours?
As the New England trail crosses private property and state land, many locations along the trail do not permit night hiking or overnight parking. Before going out on a hike, check the hours of local parks for parking and
Nearby sites
Silvio O. Conte National Fish and Wildlife Refuge
CheckThis U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service site may charge a fee your pass covers — confirm before you go.
NPS Photo National Park Service Springfield Armory National Historic Site
ConfirmedFree entry — there is no entrance fee here, so you won’t need your pass to get in.