Among natural-wonders hunters’ the state of Connecticut is one of the best spots to visit as wanderers can explore numerous natural wonders along with breathtaking waterfalls in Connecticut. Travelers do also enjoy the absolute and gorgeous scenic beauty of this graceful state in New England, US. Some of the Connecticut waterfalls are too big, some are small, while some are perennial, and some are seasonal.
According to me, all of these stunning CT waterfalls are worth visiting. Moreover, Connecticut waterfalls come with amazing hiking and walking trails. Here are some of the best waterfalls in Connecticut. Definitely visit some of these stunning falls in your next trip to CT. Must visit these remarkable waterfalls and get totally amazed!
1. Nonnewaug Falls, Woodbury, Litchfield County
Nonnewaug Falls is one of the prettiest waterfalls in CT to visit. The falls is separated in two parts- the upper falls and the lower falls and it’s located in the Nonnewaug Falls Open Space Preserve. The main Nonnewaug Falls is 20 feet high and cascades into the mouth of the gorge. Nonnewaug Falls is nestled in the town of Woodbury but the trailhead is located in Bethlehem. Must bring your camera to photograph one of the most stunning and best waterfalls in CT.
Must explore the great 1.8-km out-and-back easy and short hiking trail. The complete trail takes only 28 minutes of your time. The hike is little down to the falls. Visitors get overwhelmed while approaching this scenic trail as they discover amazing birding and hiking experiences. Due to the flooding reason, the area sometimes gets muddy. So, visitors are strongly recommended to wear sturdy shoes. The best time to cover the trail, is in dry season.
If you decide to hike during rainy season, you’ll get the nicest views of the falls along with the entire surroundings. But at that time, the entire land gets too slippery and muddy. And hiking is very risky. So, you must avoid hiking after heavy rain. And talking about the views, the falls looks always breathtaking!
After completing the trail, you will reach to the base pool. The water is cool and refreshing. This spot is quite serena and you can enjoy the lovely place all to yourself. For its easy accessibility, short hiking trails and less crowd, Nonnewaug Falls is one of the most family-friendly waterfalls in Connecticut.
In a little distance, there is a private property. Visitors are not allowed to trespass the property. So, stick to the public accessible trails. Must carry bugs spray with you. The trailhead parking is a large space. So, no worries for parking!
Address: Falls Rd, Bethlehem, CT 06751.
2. Great Falls, Falls Village, Litchfield County
Great Falls, also known as Canaan Falls, is a 50-foot waterfall located on the Housatonic River. It’s truly a hidden gem in CT. Finding the falls is itself a difficult task. If you have great navigation skill, only then go for the Great Falls hike.
Great Falls is the most powerful waterfall in the region. Sometimes people call this falls the “Niagra Falls” of Connecticut.
Though the path is tricky to reach to the falls, it’s not long that much. From the parking lot, it is a short walk. For kayakers, it is a great spot. They can paddle right below the waterfall. If you visit in peak season (between March and May), you’ll encounter numerous visitors are enjoying this fun-activity.
The nearby Falls Village is a great attraction among many visitors. If you have extra time, must explore that place as well. Here you can observe the lush vegetation and wonderful natural surroundings.
3. Campbell Falls, Campbell Falls State Park, Norfolk, Litchfield County
Campbell Falls is a must-to-visit waterfall in Connecticut. While covering this waterfall hike, visitors can visualize the true beauty of nature. Located inside one of the most popular Campbell Falls State Park, this natural wonder offers to get close with deep forest and diversified natural wonders along with its unique features. The zig-zag dramatic plunge from 50-feet upon the gorge makes Campbell waterfall more alluring and a great photographic spot.
In the state park, there are numerous hiking trails visitors can enjoy. Several running and walking trails are also available. Must try the most popular 1.6-km out-and-back trail near Norfolk. The trailhead is easy to find and it is close to the parking area. This family-friendly easy hike takes nearly 25 minutes to complete.
Sometimes visitors need to cover the hill down and back up path. Otherwise it’s a nice pathway. The best thing is leashed dogs are welcome in this hike. There are some smaller waterfalls that visitors can explore.
The parking space is also a nice area. Moreover, stream fishing is popular here. So, a day trip to this waterfall with your dear ones and enjoying the fun activities, is a great way to enjoy and celebrate your weekend in a different way.
Address: Old, Spaulding Rd, Norfolk Historic District, CT 06058.
Phone: (860) 424-3200.
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4. Westledge Trail Cascades, Simsbury, Hartford County
This is the place where you will find the highest concentration of beautiful waterfalls in CT. There are numerous small and large cascades making the whole area more bewitching! All CT visitors must cover the Westledge Trail. There are actually three hiking trails visitors can explore.
Westledge Trail Cascades are perfect for all types of hikers. The main attraction of this trail is the 8-feet tall cascading waterfall. You will see a nice pool at the basin. Taking a dip in this 4-feet deep pool is a must-to-do activity to refresh the body and mind as the water quality is very clean and clear.
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5. Roaring Brook Falls, Cheshire, New Haven County
Roaring Brook Falls is located in Roaring Brook Park and it is one of the most stunning CT waterfalls. For active hikers, it is a great spot. Roaring Brook Falls is widely known for its 2.4-km loop trail. Furthermore, Roaring Brook Falls is the second tallest waterfall in CT.
The year-round open and beautiful trail makes the 80-feet tall Roaring Brook Falls a dream destination among many hikers. There is a nice observation point. Here you will get stunning views. It’s a great photographic spot too.
The only disadvantage is the hike to Roaring Brook Falls is a very steep trail at most of the time. Dogs are allowed on the trail.
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6. Wadsworth Big and Little Falls, Middletown, Middlesex County
You will find Wadsworth Falls at Wadsworth Falls State Park. The falls is just half an hour north of New Haven. In the park, visitors can experience two stunning CT waterfalls, Big Falls and Little Falls. The Big Falls looks more powerful and flows the highest volume of any undammed waterfall in New England.
Hike to the Big Falls is very easy and all types of hikers can easily complete it. And the Little Falls is nearly half mile away from the big one. You need to trek on the orange trail from the Big Falls and you are welcome to the Little Falls. The trail runs through the lush forested area and covers so many scenic areas!
Swimming and picnicking are strictly prohibited at Big Falls. So, most visitors like to spend most of their time at Little Falls. Swimming, picnicking and some other fun activities are enjoyed by most of the visitors in the Little Falls. If you want to enjoy serenity in the forested area along with the majestic waterfalls, must visit this falls.
No doubt, Wadsworth Falls is one of the best waterfalls in the state, and it is always ready to please you and your crew with all its magical glory and beauty!
Address: 721 Wadsworth St, Middletown, CT 06457.
Phone: (860) 345-8521.
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7. Enders Falls, Granby, Northern Hartford County
Enders Falls is some of the most marvelous cascading waterfalls in CT and it is located in Enders State Forest. The entire land is very popular with walking and hiking trails. The hike to the waterfall is super easy. You can easily choose this spot as your next weekend getaway with your whole family. Your kids will definitely enjoy the easy hike.
The easy 1.6-km out-and-back trail starts near West Granby Historic, CT. It takes only 27 minutes to complete. You will encounter several families with their younger kids are experiencing and enjoying the terrain. The entire area is peaceful and most of the hiking path is covered with lush vegetation.
The main entrance to the park is on Route 219 in Granby. And it’s open daily to the public. But remember, smoking, consumption of alcohol and firing are not permitted inside the park. Many families and other groups enjoy picnicking here. The park is famous for birdwatching and hunting, also.
The best time to visit Enders State Forest and Enders Falls is from April to October. Most go and explore the place. It’s so beautiful. At whichever side you turn your head, you will only see the magical power of nature and the natural wonders!
Address: Granby, CT 06035.
Phone: (860) 424-3200.
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8. Ayers Gap Falls, Franklin, New London County
Ayers Gap is a rugged place inside Ayers Gap Preserve and here you can experience a dramatic cascading waterfall. The existing gorge, known as the Bailey’s Ravine is a must-to-visit spot. There is a nice trail above the ravine that follows the spine of a ridge. It is one of the best views across Franklin countryside.
Get ready for another easy hike that begins near North of Franklin. The hike is all together 2.4-km loop trail and takes nearly 45 minutes to complete. At the beginning, you’ll find two steep and rocky inclines. But after that the trail is easy to complete.
Its’ a great hike for families with the kids. Don’t forget to carry a bug spray. Plus, there are poison ivy throughout the trail. So, be prepared for that. Wear proper shoes as the terrain gets muddy and slippery sometimes, specially, after rainfall. There are lots of tree roots that will create impediment on your path.
After exceling all these struggles, you can watch one of the majestic waterfalls of the state. Feel the serenity while encountering lot of other smaller waterfalls, rock scrambles and lush greenery.
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9. Northgate Falls, Simsbury, Hartford County
Northgate Falls is a great roadside attraction. There are three different tiers of Northgate Falls, you’ll discover while exploring the land. The upper falls is 10-foot tall, the middle falls, which is the tallest among Three Falls, is a 12-foot horsetail waterfall and the lower falls is 8-feet tall and flows in the cascading form.
Many past visitors have reviewed that it is one of the best waterfalls in CT. And no waterfall lover should skip this stunning CT waterfall. There are four trails you can explore. All of them lead to the same destination. The hikes are moderately challenging but very scenic. For outdoor enthusiasts, these hikes are perfect pick!
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10. Kent Falls, Kent, Litchfield County
Kent Falls is located inside Kent Falls State Park and the park itself is a great public recreation area. The entire park is very peaceful and packed with lots of natural wonders. Kent Falls State Park is one of the most family-friendly getaways in Connecticut.
Hiking the falls, wandering across the covered bridge inside the park offer visitors immense joy and happiness! Kent Falls is a series of waterfalls on a mountain stream popularly known as Falls Brook.
For sightseeing, this is a great spot. The hike is easy to access and there is beautiful scenery in each corner. Dogs are allowed. Sometimes it is steep hike along the little river.
Lastly, don’t forget to carry a bug spray.
Address: 462 Kent Cornwall Rd, Kent, CT 06757.
Phone: (860) 927-3238.
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11. Aspetuck Falls, Washington
Aspetuck Falls plunges from 20-foot through the village center and it is one of the most unique waterfalls in CT. The falls is both natural and man-made. The surrounding area is very historic and visitors can watch the Aspetuck River, that’s flowing through a small gorge, while covering Aspetuck Falls hike.
This adorable CT waterfall in the small village of New Preston, is one of the state’s most gorgeous waterfalls. Hike to the waterfall is little strenuous and it takes more than two hours to complete. It is a point-to-point 9.7-km trail. Wildlife is active in this area and visitors can encounter different types of bird species while exploring the trail.
The entire terrain is very scenic and to experience the most of natural beauties, you have to cover the hike. The trail is open year-round.
Must visit the village of New Preston. It’s home to some electric boutique shops and some tasty eateries as well.
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12. Chapman Falls, East Haddam, Middlesex County
Chapman Falls is located inside the most popular Devil’s Hopyard State Park. This amazing waterfall is very close to the parking lot. It is one of the best Connecticut waterfalls and a visit to this fantastic location is going to be your one of the best memories!
It is a great hangout spot among many couples, families and other groups. Hike to this beautiful 60-foot Chapman Falls is just a few minutes by walking down a clean trail. Picnicking on the upper portion of the falls is a fun thing.
Besides the waterfall, there are numerous hiking, biking, and walking trails, birding and fishing available in the state park. You will encounter a nice campground in the park. Several groups enjoy the nightlife in the campgrounds of this park.
13. Blackledge Falls, East Glastonbury, Tolland County
To get completely lost with natural wonders, must visit the gorgeous Blackledge Falls. Blackledge Falls Park is widely famous for offering scenic views, nice parking area, amazing hiking and walking trails and great fishing opportunity. The biggest attraction of this park is the gorgeous Blackledge Falls.
This is an easy, family-friendly hike. But if you want to see the strongest waterflow at the Blackledge Falls, the best time is during the Spring. There is a clean pond you will discover in the nearby area. For spending some relaxing time in the nature, the spot is second to no other places.
Address: 3874 Hebron Ave, Glastonbury, CT 06033.
14. Cathles Trail Falls, West Simsbury, Hartford County
Cathles Falls has the drop of 60-foot in total, and the main falls is about 30-feet tall. These falls do not have any official name originally. The Cathles Trail starts at the back of the cul-du-sac that is at the end of North Saddle Ridge Drive.
The trail is little uphill and is roughly half mile long. It’s a totally family-friendly easy hike. This waterfall is seasonal. People who visit the spot in dryer seasons, cannot even realize its existence. But, if you decide to visit Cathles Falls during the Monsoon, you will surely say that it is some of the best waterfalls in Connecticut.
15. Buttermilk Falls, Plymouth, Litchfield County
Buttermilk Falls, in Buttermilk Falls Nature Preserve, is another fantastic waterfall the state boasts. You need not to invest an entire day for this waterfall hike. The hike is super easy, just a short 0.6-miles trail. The hike is great for all ages and it will take only 15 minutes to reach the falls.
The trail runs through a hemlock forest and visitors need to cross a footbridge. The entire setting is very picturesque and peaceful. You can hear the soft sound of water flow. After reaching your destination, three different levels of Buttermilk Falls are spilling the water and creating a dramatic effect. At the base pool, picnicking is popular.
16. Knife Shop Falls, Litchfield County
In Litchfield County you’ll discover the gorgeous Knife Shop Falls, it is located in one of the southern parts of Humaston Brook State Park. This state park is an undeveloped park in CT.
The three layers of the falls are divided into the upper falls, middle falls and the lower falls and each falls is totally different from the other and plunges dramatically into the gorge. The upper falls which is a 12-foot plunge, is the most suitable waterfall where visitors can enjoy a refreshing swimming.
This waterfall is a gem of CT. You just need to park your vehicle on the road side and then follow the narrow trail. While approaching the trail, you will see the Knife Shop Dam. Be aware of the poison ivy around the trail.
The upper falls is the most attractive among all. The middle falls is 15-feet high and is easily visible from the upper falls, and the lower falls is 10-feet high.
Address: Northfield, CT 06778.
17. Day Pond Brook Falls, Colchester
Day Pond Brook Falls is inside the amazing Day Pond State Park. It is a small and beautiful state park, perfect for a day trip. Visitors can access a nice and small beach inside the state park. Must have a nice picnic in this spot, and picnic tables are available. But don’t make the place dirty by throwing any trash there.
To visualize the falls, visitors need to cover a very short walking trail. And it goes deeper into the lush forested area. There is a pond nearby. Trout fishing is popular here. Many visitors like to swim in the pond.
Dogs are allowed in this state park. There are some nice walking trails inside the park that lead to the scenic natural beauties. Here is a nice bridge. The best thing is, the park is less-known for most of the year, so, crowd will not make any disturbance in your exploration.
Address: Colchester, CT 06415.
18. Carpenter’s Falls, McLean Game Refuge, West Granby, Hartford County
Carpenter’s Falls is a beautiful and 18-feet high seasonal waterfall. The base pool of Carpenter’s Falls is not so clean, and swimming is not a good idea in the pond. But you don’t need to be upset at all! The entire setting is dramatically beautiful and mosses on the both side of the Carpenter’s Falls make the land a great photographic spot.
The short 1.5-mile hike is good for all ages. For nature exploration, it’s a great hike. Carpenter’s Falls is located in the Caruso-Collamore-Carpenter Preserve that is owned by the McLean Game Refuge. If you want to visualize this stunning waterfall, reach early as the parking area is too small and it can fit only 4 vehicles.
After completing the easy hike, you’ll get the reward! And it is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Connecticut, Carpenter’s Falls.
FAQs
1. Does Connecticut have waterfalls?
Connecticut is home to some of the stunning waterfalls in the US. The best thing is Connecticut waterfalls offer amazing walking and hiking trails, most of which are easy to complete and family-friendly as well. The height of most of the CT waterfalls fall below 50 feet in height.
2. What is the biggest waterfall in Connecticut?
The biggest waterfall in Connecticut is Kent Falls, located at Kent Falls State Park. The waterfall plunges from 240 feet height.
3. What is the Niagara Falls of Connecticut?
Great Falls is considered as the Niagara Falls of Connecticut. But it is not the perennial waterfall. So, visitors can’t enjoy Great Falls during any time of the year. When the dam releases water, only then the waterfall looks spectacular.
4. Where is Great Falls in CT?
Great Falls is in Falls Village, Litchfield County, Connecticut.
5. Can you swim at Enders Falls?
Yes, swimming is quite popular at Enders Falls. You’ll also find another popular swimming spot, Dianas Pool, close to Enders Falls.
6. Can you swim at Nonnewaug Falls?
No, you can’t swim at Nonnewaug Falls. Rather, swimming is strictly prohibited here. The waterfall cascades in two tiers and from 4 feet and 6 feet respectively. Moreover, you could only explore some limited areas as there is a private property nearby.
7. How many waterfalls are at Buttermilk State Park?
Buttermilk State Park, best known for the beautiful Buttermilk Falls, boasts 10 small but pretty waterfalls along the creek. There is also a natural pool, visitors enjoy very much at Buttermilk State Park.
8. Is Buttermilk Falls easy to hike?
Buttermilk Falls is a very enjoyable trail. For its easy hiking route, the trail gets busy among families, specially, on weekends. If you’re planning to go for this hike, start from the Buttermilk Falls parking lot. It’s the easy and short trail to get the pleasant views of Buttermilk Falls. Though, sometimes the path gets slippery.
9. Is Buttermilk Falls State Park free?
Yes, Buttermilk Falls State Park is free to the public. Even visitors need not to register here, though, visitors have to pay charges for parking their vehicles.
