It’s true that the Niantic Bay Boardwalk is pretty great — allowing walkers a nice, long, flat expanse right along the bay — but sometimes you want a different place to trod. If you’re up for some hilly terrain, try Oswegatchie Hills Nature Preserve.

The trails lead you through gorgeous wooded areas and is dotted with some waterways — Clark and Smith ponds — and some wonderful views. The preserve, which overlooks the Niantic River, covers more than 450 acres. It was created through a public/private partnership.

And if you want to stick closer to the Flanders section of East Lyme, the Richard H. Goodwin Trail off Mostowy Road is a great option.

Oswegatchie Hills Nature Preserve, 8 Memorial Park Drive, Niantic; Oswhills.org; Goodwin Trail, 16 Mostowy Road, East Lyme.