East Rock Park

East Rock Park is a 425-acre urban park located in New Haven, Connecticut. The park is centered around East Rock, a 366-foot high trap rock ridge that offers panoramic views of New Haven, Long Island Sound, and the surrounding area.

Formed around 200 million years ago, East Rock is composed of diabase, an intrusive igneous rock. The park's unique geology and varied microclimates support diverse ecosystems, from oak savannas on the dry upper ridges to hemlock forests on cooler north-facing slopes.

The park features an extensive network of hiking trails, including the popular Giant Steps Trail that ascends steeply to the summit. At the top of East Rock stands the Soldiers' and Sailors' Monument, a 112-foot high tower erected in 1887 to honor New Haven's Civil War veterans.

East Rock Park offers numerous recreational opportunities for visitors. The park includes sports fields, tennis courts, and playgrounds at its base. The Mill River, which flows along the western edge of the park, provides opportunities for fishing and boating.

The Pardee Rose Garden and Greenhouse, located within the park, showcases a variety of roses and other flowering plants from spring to fall. The Trowbridge Environmental Center offers educational programs and displays about the park's geology and ecosystems.

East Rock Park is open year-round, with seasonal hours for vehicle access to the summit. The park's natural beauty, recreational facilities, and historical significance make it a valuable resource for New Haven residents and visitors alike.