Bridgeport: Seaside Park, Pequonnock River Trail

Bridgeport is an oft-overlooked Connecticut seaport between New Haven and Stamford. Here are some of the best places to run in Bridgeport:

Seaside Park. This is the most scenic running option in Bridgeport. A multi-use path/sidewalk runs along Long Island Sound and along Seaside Beach. There are great water views the whole way along this 5 mile out and back route. Park near the Perry Memorial Arch off Howe Ave. Run on the path paralleling Soundview Dr. & Barnum Blvd. There’s a Soldiers Monument and status of a cannon, Elias Howe, and PT Barnum. At the end, there are nice views of Fayerweather Island Light. For the return, you can retrace your steps or vary it by running for 0.8 miles along the Cedar Point Marina. ROUTE MAP

Pequonnock River Trail. This rails-to-trails multi-use path follows the former Housatonic line from Bridgeport north for 14 miles through Trumbull and Monroe along the Pequonnock River Valley. It’s a combination of paved and crushed stone, and passes through several parks. The section through Parlor Rock State Park is especially nice. Shortly after, in William E. Wolfe Park, it meets the Housatonic Valley Rail Trail. Note: There are a few gaps/road sections in the trail. INFORMATION   ROUTE MAP