Hiking is always a scenic and exciting adventure. But with a bit of history thrown into the mix, you’re really in for a memorable outing. The Regicides Trail in New Haven is an intriguing 7-mile journey that leads to a historic hideout cave. Take a trip to West Rock Ridge State Park and experience it first-hand. The story behind this unique destination is truly fascinating.
The Regicides Trail is a moderately difficult hike known for its narrow pathways, stunning vistas, and incredible cave.
Cathy Milburn/AllTrails This walking path is part of West Rock Ridge State Park and it’s marked by blue blazes.
Along the way, you’ll be met with awe-inspiring views of the New Haven Harbor and Long Island Sound.
Eliesia Mendes/AllTrails The state park rises up to 627 feet above sea level, and experts estimate visitors can see about 200 square miles all around them.
But what really makes this place fascinating, however, is a story from the 1660s.
Cathy Milburn/AllTrails
In 1649, 59 British judges sentenced King Charles I to death. This act dissolved the monarchy and placed Oliver Cromwell in charge. But in 1660, King Charles I’s son rose to power, and he wanted revenge.
John Jackson/AllTrails
Charles II sentenced all 59 judges to a grizzly death. To escape this dismal fate, judges Whalley and Goffe fled to New Haven, Connecticut.
Dirk Flachbart/AllTrails
With the help of sympathetic Puritans, the two judges fled to this cave in the woods.
Debbie Samilenko/AllTrails
The men took shelter within the tiny crack in the cave for several weeks, surviving off scraps donated from locals.
Debbie Samilenko/AllTrails Today, this natural structure is known as “Judge’s Cave,” and it’s marked by a commemorative plaque.
After the judges came across a panther in the woods, they fled to Massachusetts and lived there for the rest of their lives.
Cathy Milburn/AllTrails The Regicides Trail is both beautiful and historic, and it’s an incredible place to spend an afternoon. West Rock Ridge State Park is open daily from 8 a.m. to sunset. To learn more, visit their website here.
Have you ever hiked the Regicides Trail in Connecticut? If so, share your thoughts with us in the comments below! And if you’re looking for another incredible outdoor adventure, check out this enchanting fairytale hike in Connecticut.
Cathy Milburn/AllTrails
This walking path is part of West Rock Ridge State Park and it’s marked by blue blazes.
Eliesia Mendes/AllTrails
The state park rises up to 627 feet above sea level, and experts estimate visitors can see about 200 square miles all around them.
John Jackson/AllTrails
Dirk Flachbart/AllTrails
Debbie Samilenko/AllTrails
Today, this natural structure is known as “Judge’s Cave,” and it’s marked by a commemorative plaque.
The Regicides Trail is both beautiful and historic, and it’s an incredible place to spend an afternoon. West Rock Ridge State Park is open daily from 8 a.m. to sunset. To learn more, visit their website here.
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Address: West Rock Ridge State Park, 1134 Wintergreen Ave, New Haven, CT 06514, USA
