Reviews & Comments
Marlborough, CT
recreation oportunities in and around marlborough -
10/8/2014Marlborough's proximity to Hartford, NYC, and Boston offers the usual opportunities for big city entertainment and cultural events. My interests are found closer to home. Marlborough is a rural community with acres of state forest land, rivers and streams, low traffic (accept at am and pm rush hour), and a gem of a spring fed lake. My interests include cycling, hiking, paddling and swimming. The roadways offer multiple and challenging cycling routes, most with light traffic. There are some hiking trails in town and a more extensive network of trails in adjacent towns and nearby state parks. Part of a Rails - to - trails path is located in town and is suitable for cycling and hiking. The jewel of the town is the lake. Access is limited to town residents, their guests, and those attending special events. It is too small for large boats but great for paddling - sup (stand up paddleboard), kayaks, canoes, small sail boats. The water quality is excellent and the swimming superb. The lake is approximately .8 of a mile long and a few hundred yards wide at different points. Over a dozen people swim the length of the lake each day during the season - June thru September. Many triathletes from throughout the state come to train here - even LL Bean offers Outdoor Adventure School paddling rentals. Facilities at the town beach include ample parking, a pavilion, and bathrooms. A playscape is also located at the town park which includes the beach area.