Higby Mountain is known for its high cliff faces, unique microclimate ecosystems, and rare plant communities.

It rises steeply 600 feet (180 m) above the Quinnipiac River valley and the city of Meriden to the west as a continuous 2-mile (3 km) long ledge.

The mountain forms a conspicuous, sharp 2-mile (3 km) long cliffline visible throughout the upper Quinnipiac River Valley and metropolitan Meriden.

Subsequent faulting and earthquake activity tilted the strata, creating the cliffs and ridgeline of Higby Mountain.

[4] Hot, dry upper slopes, cool, moist ravines, and mineral-rich ledges of basalt talus produce a combination of microclimate ecosystems on the mountain that support plant and animal species uncommon in greater Connecticut.

[1] Activities enjoyed on the mountain include hiking, snowshoeing, bird watching picnicking, and other passive pursuits.

The second trailhead is located at the north end of the mountain at the junction of Miner Street and Interstate 91, exit 20 in Middletown; parking is permitted along the road.