Posted in Connecticut National & State Parks, Nature December 20, 2021 by

You’ll Want To Spend All Day At The Criminally Underrated Dennis Hill State Park In Connecticut

With 139 state parks in Connecticut, some are going to fall through the cracks. People have limited time with which to explore the state. Some places that are perfectly deserving of attention end up not getting the love they should. One underrated park we always advocate for is Dennis Hill State Park in Norfolk. Nestled in the beautiful Litchfield Hills, this oasis has some of the best views in the state. It doesn’t get nearly as much publicity as some of the more famous state parks in Connecticut, but it is just as worthy of a visit! 

The park features a neat bungalow, called the Tamarack Lodge Bungalow. It was once a summer lodge home and is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Tony Bolduc/Google Maps
Dennis Hill spans 240 acres and its high elevation means it features some remarkable views.
Jason Marchant/Google Maps
It's especially stunning in the fall, but each season brings out the area's beauty in a different way.
We love the gazebo loop. The 1.8-mile trail has some spectacular vantage points to look down at the surrounding areas.
Monica Claros/Google Maps
This is a great hike regardless of your skill level. On a clear day, you can see all the way to Vermont and Massachusetts.
You'll see plenty of old stone walls and remnants of historic structures all over the park.
Jason Marchant/Google Maps
The park was originally the summer home of Dr. Frederic Dennis. His estate was named "Tamarac," but when he gifted the land to the state, it was named in his honor.
M QM/Google Maps
Dennis was the official White House doctor of multiple presidents, including William Howard Taft, who visited the lodge often.
This is a great spot for a hike, picnic, or just to get out and explore.
Cara MacDonald/Google Maps
Between the trails, views, and history, it's easy to see why we consider this one of the most underrated state parks in Connecticut.
jim catalfamo/Google Maps

Have you visited Dennis Hill State Park? Share your experiences in the comments!

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Address: Dennis Hill State Park, 519 Litchfield Rd, Norfolk Historic District, CT 06058, USA