Nothing is better than flowing fresh waters and natural wonders to calm and rejuvenate the spirit. Kent, Enders and Wadsworth Falls are popular designations; however, there are many more waterfalls cascading in shady lush forests, flowing out of crisp blue reservoirs and down rugged steep gorges to explore. These are a few lesser known falls throughout the Connecticut to enjoy.
Falls Brook Falls — Tunxis State Forest, CT
Find sluice in this short tranquil hike. Falls Brook the most picturesque and tranquil waterfalls in Connecticut. The series of cascading falls, pools and shady mile long trail is good for all hiking skill levels. The upper falls with a 20’ drop is easily accessible; however, the larger lower 30’ falls requires some off-trail hiking.
Yantic Falls Indian Leap — Norwich, CT
Yantic Falls also known as Indian Leap is part of the Norwich Heritage Trail and the sacred site of Mohegan Tribe. During the Pequot War (1636-1638), the Battle of the Great Plains occurred here and instead of surrendering, legend has it Narragansett warriors leaped to the deaths attempting to jump the gorge and escape. It is a stunning historic tail and waterfalls with 40’ drop into a narrow rocky gorge. There is also a smaller falls viewable from Upper Dam Park.
Pryden Falls — Newtown, CT The only thing more wonderful than Pryden Falls is getting here. Located in the center of the Paugussett State Forest along the Housatonic River, the moderate hiking trail provides picturesque views, rich lush forests and moss-covered landscapes all the way to the falls. It is one of the best scenic hiking trails in Connecticut. Pryden Falls is 45-foot cascading falls.
Kent Falls — Kent, CT
The Jewel of the Inland Parks within the Litchfield Hills—Kent Falls is beautiful 250-foot cascading waterfalls and one of the most easily accessible—with only a short walk to the falls. Kent Falls State Park is great for families offering hiking, picnicking and fishing—there are two moderate hiking trails along each side of the falls with many lookout points.
The village of Kent is a few miles south with delightful shops and cafes—including the Sloane-Stanley Museum, Connecticut Antique Machinery Exhibit and Bulls Bridge. Bulls Bridge is one of the last remaining covered bridges in Connecticut. Macedonia Brook State Park and Lake Waramaug are also nearby with great wineries worth exploring. For more on CT waterfalls visit Waterfall Escapes—Discover Connecticut.
Great Falls — Canaan, CT
Located on Housatonic River in the northwest corner of Connecticut, Great Falls is one of the best kept secrets—with the high water volume and 50’ drop it is impressive and often thought the largest waterfalls in the state, but is smaller then Kent Falls and Roaring Brooks Falls. There is a short river trail and above the falls is a dam—best to visit in the early spring or after a heavy ran.
Southford Falls — Southbury, CT Fast flowing 50-foot cascading waterfalls along Eight Mile Brook is beautiful and one of the most easily accessible waterfalls—with only a short walk to the falls. It is the former site of a gristmill and Diamond Match Company—producer of cardboard matchboxes. It is interesting the match marker burned down twice before becoming a state park in 1932. Southfield Falls State Park is great for families—offering hiking, picnicking, ice-skating and fishing. It is also a designated Trout Park.
Lower Lagoon — Milford, CT
Milford is the classic New England town, rich in history and traditions. The Lower Lagoon Dam Falls is on River Street near City Hall and Government Center—and offers a picturesque view with duck pond and white steeple church. The town is known for its annual oyster festival and collection of war memorial monuments honoring veterans and heroes on the town green.
Archer Dam Falls — North Lyme, CT Classic New England farmhouse and waterfalls along 8 Mile River and Mt Archer is almost a dream with rushing blue waters, lush landscaping and painted skies. It is truly on the most beautiful countryside farmhouse estate in all of Connecticut. The falls however is on private property and only visible from the bridge.
New Preston Falls — New Preston, CT
Hidden behind charming shops and antique stores, New Preston Falls on Aspetuck River is delightful surprise and local favorite. With a 20-foot steep drop, strong flowing waters and house nestled on the falls edge—it is beautifully unique waterfalls and easily viewed.
Farmington River Falls — Collinsville, CT The Farmington River Trail is a running and cycling path and wonderful way to explore the river, dams and several towns including Avon, Unionville and Southington. Collinsville has a series of dams, the first at the Collins Company Axe Factory & Mill; and second a mile south of the town. Collinsville is scenic town made for outdoor adventure with canoeing, kayaking and hiking but also offers live entertainment, charming shops, bistros and markets. It is no wonder, Frommer’s Travel Magazine named it one of America’s 10 Coolest Small Towns.
Newman Mills Falls — Stamford, CT
Newman Mills Falls Dam is part of an old grist and sawmill that stood on the banks of the Mianus River from 1726-1968. The dam falls is simple, steady flowing water and is easily accessible from River Bank Road—however, recommend entering from the Taylor Preserve entrance on June Road for a brief nature walk along the river and hillside.
Connecticut offers many more waterfalls, tranquil hikes, charming towns and beautiful countryside—so get out and explore. Return for future posts on Connecticut’s Historic Homes, Douro Valley Vineyards and Wineries of the Finger Lakes Region.