Hike Indian Council Caves to Pine Mountain, Barkhamsted, CT

Come along on a beautiful adventure in Litchfield County – a hike leading you to Indian Council Caves followed by a scenic view atop Pine Mountain!

Located in Barkhamsted, a town way north towards the Massachusetts border, you’ll find an area that feels untouched. With no bustling downtown or large major stores (thank goodness) you feel like you’re in a different state up here – New Hampshire? Vermont?

It’s rural, and unless this blog post goes viral, which I doubt ;), you’ll likely only see one or maybe even no other people on this trail, which I love.

🌟 Further in the post under the ‘Trail Details’ section, I provide a link to the trail I made on AllTrails along with GPS coordinates and directions so you know where to park! 🚗🚗

We do feel comfortable letting the dogs off leash here since 1) they come back when called, 2) they have GPS tracker collars on, and 3) there usually aren’t a lot of people here. I would just be aware that there could be animals making their home here – we’ve seen beavers and their dams when you walk by the pond! 🦫

I’ve lived in CT almost all my life and have been hiking here for decades. This is a hike that never gets old to me. I’ve done it multiple times, and it’s truly beautiful in any season!

Indian Council Caves History

Despite their name, these formations are not true caves but rather a collection of large boulders and rock overhangs that create sheltered spaces. 🪨🪨

But still, how fun are these little “cave” openings?! We did find animal droppings at the entrance of this one and the dogs were going crazy smelling around, so I wonder if in wintertime animals make their homes there. 😱

I did a little digging online, but the origin of the name “Indian Council Caves” is somewhat ambiguous, as there is no substantial evidence to confirm that Native American councils or gatherings took place at this site.

The town of Barkhamsted, incorporated in 1779, is also full of history. It is a quiet town with roots in agriculture and industry. One of its most famous historical landmarks is the Barkhamsted Lighthouse, a former settlement of Native Americans and freed African Americans.

Barkhamsted is the perfect destination in CT to venture for rural, natural beauty. And exploring the caves and Peak Mountain is a great first stop!

Trail Overview (keep scrolling for directions & AllTrails link I made)

The hike to the Indian Council Caves is part of the blue-blazed Tunxis Trail system, a network of trails that spans 83 miles in northwestern Connecticut. This particular section of the trail is moderate in difficulty, with wide trails that are more rolling hills than steep climbs.

For the first 0.6 miles, you’ll be walking along a wide logging access road.

After 0.6 miles you’ll meet up with the blue-blazed Tunxis Trail and you’ll arrive at the caves at just 0.8 miles in.

There is a slight view at the very top of the caves, and after exploring here, you’ll pick up the blue trail again where you’ll walk north along the blue Tunxis Trail.

And after about 1.4 miles, you arrive atop Pine Mountain at mile 3.2.

Then you’ll return the way you came! 🙂

Indian Council & Pine Mountain Trail Details

• 🔗 AllTrails link 🔗 (Tip: download or preview the trail ahead of time since service can be limited here) I made this trail since I could not find a trail that combined both the caves & Pine Mountain!
• 🥾 Miles: 5.65 miles
• 📈 Elevation: 712 ft elevation gain
• 💪🏼 Level: Moderate
• 🔁 Trail Type: Out & Back
• ⏰ Average Time: 2+ hours
• 🚗 Parking: Navigate here: 41.9525, -72.91532 Small pull-off (2 to 3 cars) along RT 179, E Hartland Rd.
• 🐶 Dog-friendly: Yes, there are no steep climbs unless you walk to the top of the caves which is optional since there isn’t much of a view at the top.

Tips for Your Hike

• What to Bring: Wear sturdy hiking boots, and bring water, snacks, and have the trail downloaded in case you don’t have service here which is possible. While the Tunxis Trail is well-marked, it’s always a good idea to have a backup.
• Best Time to Visit: I loved hiking here in late spring/early summer when the brooks were flowing. But I also really loved the peace of hiking here in the snow this winter!
• Leave No Trace: Help keep this area beautiful by carrying out all trash and respecting the environment.

Why You Should Go

The Indian Council Caves trail is the perfect mix of history, adventure, and natural beauty. From the moment you step onto the trail, you’ll feel a sense of excitement and curiosity about the land’s past and its role in the present.

The caves themselves are a fascinating destination, but the journey through the Barkhamsted Reservoir Watershed Reserve to Pine Mountain is just as rewarding.

Whether you’re hiking solo, with friends, or bringing your family along, the Indian Council Caves trail promises a fun hiking experience in Connecticut.

So lace up your boots, pack your backpack, and get ready to explore one of Barkhamsted’s hidden gems!