There’s No Better Place To Spend Your Summer Than These 6 Hidden Connecticut Spots
Summer’s great, but sometimes the usual places can get a little over-populated. Have you ever gone to the water to relax but found your quiet day ruined by too many nearby beach-goers? It’s a frustrating situation, and one that likely left you wishing you had chosen somewhere a little more tucked away. Lucky for you, enjoying your summer in Connecticut is a piece of cake. The Constitution State has plenty of spots with more than enough space for you to enjoy a relaxed day by the water and feel miles away from everyone.
During these uncertain times, please keep safety in mind and consider adding destinations to your bucket list to visit at a later date.
Enders State Forest, Granby, CT 06035, USA
Enders State Forest is a massive 2,100-acre wooded area that is home to several waterfalls. Since there's so much shade, it's a well-known spot for nature lovers looking for summer fun. But with six waterfalls along the trail, there's plenty of room to spread out and you'll feel like you're all alone. Entering the water is discouraged as the rocks can get very slippery. There have been several accidental drownings. Find out more information on the Connecticut State Parks website.
Bigelow Hollow Road, Bigelow Hollow Rd, Union, CT, USA
Bigelow Hollow State Park is a massive park filled with thick evergreen woods. There are 35 miles of hiking trails and the park features Breakneck Pond, as well as the smaller Bigelow Pond. The park also borders Mashapaug Lake. The ponds and streams in the park are popular with fishermen looking to score bass and trout. Whether you're looking to cast a line, hike, swim, or just relax by the water, you're sure to find entertainment here. You can find out more information on the Connecticut State Parks website.
Indian Well State Park, 1 Indian Well Rd, Shelton, CT 06484, USA
Did you know Connecticut has 139 state parks? Another great one you'll want to visit this summer is Indian Well State Park. The 150-acre park is home to several trails and areas that are perfect for picnicking. Best of all, there's a 15-foot waterfall with a splash pool at the bottom. The Connecticut State Parks website has more information on this beautiful place.
Enders Island, Stonington, CT 06355, USA
Enders Island is an 11-acre island off the coast of Mystic. It's home to St. Edmund's Retreat, a Catholic retreat center. Not only is the island itself beautiful, but the priests there host many workshops for counseling and drug rehabilitation. The island is also home to the Sacred Art Institute, where you can attend classes on oil painting, Gregorian chanting, calligraphy, and more. The island welcomes people of all faiths, as well as those who are not religious. Visit the Enders Island website for more information and a list of upcoming events.
Outer Island, Branford, CT 06405, USA
Outer Island is a 5-acre island that is the outermost of the Thimble Islands. It's so remote that you can only reach it by boat! Outer Island is home to boulder and cobble beaches and two small salt marshes. It's great for bird watching or those who just want to feel at peace in nature. The island is open for visitors each summer from late May to late September. This is such a beautiful, secluded island.
Bear Mountain Reservation, 17 Bear Mountain Rd, Danbury, CT 06811, USA
Bear Mountain Reservation is a 140-acre paradise located in Danbury. The park boasts miles of trails, most of which are rather easy and suitable for amateurs just looking to get away for a bit. It's a great spot for dogs or families with kids. It's got plenty of woods and also some open meadows. You can check out the trail maps on the City of Danbury website.
Did we forget your favorite secluded summer spot in Connecticut? Share your suggestions in the comments!
Address: Enders State Forest, Granby, CT 06035, USA
Address: Bigelow Hollow State Park, 298 Bigelow Hollow Rd, Union, CT 06076, USA
Address: Indian Well State Park, 1 Indian Well Rd, Shelton, CT 06484, USA
Address: Enders Island, Stonington, CT 06355, USA
Address: Outer Island, Branford, CT 06405, USA
Address: Bear Mountain Reservation, 17 Bear Mountain Rd, Danbury, CT 06811, USA
