
For fitness fanatics and extreme sports enthusiasts alike, there is nothing more exhilarating and romantic than a shared fitness adventure. There is a wealth of the outdoors to explore in Connecticut, but the following is a list of the top ten spots you’ll want to check out for biking, hiking, golf, skydiving, rock climbing, cliff jumping and/or scuba diving.
1. Grab the bikes and head over to the Mountain Bike Trail at Riverside Park on Riverside Park Road in Hartford. There are eight heart pumping miles of single and double track mountain bike trails. More information can be found at www.riverfront.org
2. Visit Collinsville Canoe & Kayak and take an energizing afternoon kayak fitness class on the CT river. A bargain at only $19, it is offered on Tuesday afternoons throughout June, July and August. More information can be found at www.cckstore.com 860-693-6977.
3. Spend the day at the Brownstone Exploration & Discovery Park at 161 Brownstone Avenue in Portland, CT. A daily pass is only $26.00, with rock climbing, cliff jumping, scuba diving, snorkeling, wake boarding, zip lines, hiking and biking. More information can be found at www.brownstonepark.com
4. Take a leisurely 1.5 mile hike at Talcott Mountain State Park, on Route 185 in Simsbury, CT. At the end of the trail, climb to the top of the Heublein Tower. At 165 feet high, there are breathtaking views with four states visible from the top. Definitely a romantic spot.
5. Check in at Eastern Mountain Sports Rock Climbing School in W. Hartford to meet with a guide for a first ascent climb at Ragged Mountain. Top rope climbing is $95.00 per person. More information can be found at www.emsclimb.com
6. For the more extreme adventurers, visit the Boston/Hartford Skydiving Center at Danielson Airport, I395Hwy Exit 91/93. Extreme, fun skydiving adventures for beginners and more advanced skydivers alike. More information can be found at www.funskydiving.com
7. Ride the rapids with Clarke Outdoors whitewater rafting on Route 7 in W. Cornwall. Whitewater rafting runs through May, and there are also kayak and canoe lessons. More information can be found at www.clarkeoutdoors.com
8. For golf lovers, visit the gorgeous 18 hole course at Lake of Isles Golf Course adjacent to the Foxwoods Casino in Ledyard CT. There are breathtaking views, special golf packages, and reservations can be made online. More information can be found at www.foxwoods.com
9. Visit a nationally recognized trail at Mattabessett Blue Trail in Middletown CT. With miles of challenging trails, caves, and amazing views, this trail runs through CT, Mass. and N.H.
10. Check out Mountains Unlimited Whitewater Adventures at www.gopaddle.com for listings of outdoor adventures across the state.