Lush parks, hiking trails and glistening lakes offer rejuvenating options. Get out and enjoy nature, from jogging on a country trail, to fishing or just relaxing in Ballard Park in the town center. Whether a nature walk or a picnic beneath an ancient tree, the enchanting scenery is a reminder of the region’s immense beauty.

Ballard Park (.1 Mile)
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Just steps from The Elms Inn lies this Ridgefield landmark, a five-acre park designed by Ridgefield resident Frederick Law Olmstead, the famous landscape architect of Manhattan’s Central Park. Today, a contemporary gazebo with wooden benches and a red brick floor offers a shady place to sit and take in the peaceful views. During summer months, it is a favorite site for outdoor festivals.

Woodcock Nature Center (3.5 Miles)
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This 146-acre nature center is a haven for aquatic life and birds, with miles of trails meandering by old stone walls and stands of old maple, beech, oak and hickory. A boardwalk spans across part of the wetlands area for pristine views.

Pierrepont State Park Reserve (3.5 Miles)
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Enjoy boating, fishing and hiking at this scenic reserve. For more information call 203-438-2008.

Aldrich Park (3.7 Miles)
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This 37-acre park offers marked hiking trails and baseball. Directions: Route. 35 to Farmingville Rd. Make right onto Farmingville Road. Go approximately 1½ miles to New Rd. Make left onto New Road. Make 1st left into Aldrich Park. For more information call 203-438-2008.

Weir Farm National Historic Site
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Just some 4½ miles away in Wilton, you can visit this spectacular natural setting which is on the National Register of Historic Places as well as a National Historic site. American Impressionist painter, J. Alden Weir (1852-1919) summered at this country retreat for nearly 40 years. Today visitors can stroll the grounds, including wetland areas, streams, hardwood forests and Weir pond; as well as take art classes. The site is open year-round with seasonal hours.

Lake Windwing (5.5 Miles)
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Ridgefield’s Lake Windwing is set on over 100 acres and features fishing, camping and hiking options as well as baseball fields.