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Nature|Waterfalls

This Marvelous 1.2-Mile Trail In Connecticut Leads Adventurers To A Little-Known Set Of Waterfalls

Spruce Brook Loop in Naugatuck State Forest offers a family-friendly, scenic 1.2-mile hike featuring six waterfalls.

Updated Feb 4, 2024

Written by 

Lisa Sammons

Lengthy treks through the woods are great, but sometimes, you just want an easy hike in Connecticut. Maybe you're hitting the trails with your kids, or maybe you're trying to get back into shape after some time off. Whatever the reason, there's no shortage of easy Nutmeg State trails that are just as worthy of exploration as our longer, more adventurous hikes. One of our favorites is within the mighty Naugatuck State Forest. The massive preserve spans over 5,000 acres and contains miles of trails, but the Spruce Brook Loop near Beacon Falls is a great family-friendly hike that packs a lot of sightseeing into its 1.2-mile length. Spruce Brook Falls is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Connecticut.

The trail can get a little slippery, especially if it's been rainy, so, as always, make sure to wear appropriate footwear.

A serene forest scene featuring a flowing stream, rocky terrain, and trees lining the banks.
Ann Marie Lombardo/Alltrails

However, after a rainfall is a great time to come out here. This trail features six waterfalls!

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A serene stream flows over rocks, with small waterfalls surrounded by lush greenery and trees in a sunlit forest.
Alex M/Alltrails

The falls are typically best visible throughout the spring, particularly when the weather has been rainy.

A serene waterfall cascades over moss-covered rocks, with a fallen log resting nearby in a lush green forest.
Sweetburrito/Google Local

However, you'll usually find at least a trickle at any time of year.

A serene forest scene featuring a flowing stream surrounded by moss-covered rocks and lush greenery.
Al Kulla/Google Local

Since the trail follows along a creek, it can get pretty icy if the weather is cold. If you're visiting in winter, you might want to have spikes on your shoes and skip bringing the kids for a warmer day.

A serene forest scene featuring a winding stream, moss-covered rocks, and trees in a tranquil, natural setting.
Dave Scarmozzino/Alltrails

Shorter trails like this are often overlooked in favor of longer, more impressive hikes, but this one certainly has big payoff(s) in spite of its lack of mileage!

A serene forest scene featuring a small waterfall cascading over rocks, surrounded by trees and fallen branches.
Dave Scarmozzino/Alltrails

If you're looking for a great waterfall hike in Connecticut, it doesn't get much better than the Spruce Brook Loop.

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A serene waterfall cascading over rocks in a lush, green forest.
Bryan Pfalzgraf/Google Local

We think this gorgeous trail is one of the best hikes in Connecticut. Have you gotten the chance to experience it for yourself? What did you think? Please let us know in the comments section. We love to hear about your trips! And if you're looking for some great hiking gear to enjoy more Connecticut hiking trails, check out REI.

For a trail map of the Spruce Brook Loop and other trails within the Naugatuck State Forest, check out the Connecticut State Parks website's trail map.

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Nature|Waterfalls

The Magnificent Natural Wonder In Connecticut That’s Located Barely A Quarter Mile From The Parking Lot

Find a quick and easy waterfall hike in Granby, CT at the McLean Game Refuge's Westledge Cascades Trail, which is barely over a quarter mile.

Published Aug 29, 2024

Written by 

Lisa Sammons

Here at Only In Connecticut, we love a good lengthy all-day trek. We've got tons of amazing trails in the Nutmeg State, and we're firm believers that everyone should work their way up to exploring them all! There's so many options for those who want to enjoy long hikes that span 10 miles or more. With that being said, shorter hikes are important to feature, too, and they can certainly be just as fun. We realize that not everybody is capable of a multi-mile hike, and sometimes it feels good to just try something easy. If you're looking for a short easy trail in Granby, CT that still boasts some amazing views, we think you'll love the Westledge Cascades Trail in the McLean Game Refuge. Check it out:

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The McLean Game Refuge is a 4,400-acre nature preserve in Granby with 20 miles of hiking trails to enjoy. It's a great spot for birdwatching and immersing yourself in nature.

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Lisa Washko/AllTrails

There are plenty of longer trails here, but the Westledge Cascades Trail measures barely over a quarter mile and is perfect for anyone seeking a short adventure.

Hiking off-trail is strictly prohibited here, so make sure that you stay on the blazed trails at all times.

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Mark Morrell/AllTrails

You'll also want to note that dogs are only allowed on certain trails here. You can check out the full list of rules at the McLean Game Refuge website.

All kinds of critters live in this beautiful preserve, and you never know what sort of wildlife you'll spot, so keep your eyes peeled.

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Deidre Chill/AllTrails

The real gem of the Westledge Trail, though, is the adorable little waterfall along the route.

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Kelly B/AllTrails

This is such a peaceful wooded area that's got a ton of shade, so the quick trail won't even subject you to the hot sun in summertime.

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Addie Aubin/AllTrails

Next time you're looking for an easy waterfall hike near Granby, CT, the McLean Game Refuge is the perfect place.

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Erik Barboza/AllTrails

For more information about this great short trail in Granby, CT, check out our friends at AllTrails.

Are you a big fan of hiking in Connecticut, or trying to get out and explore our great state more frequently? Enjoy a free trial of AllTrails+. It's got tons of great benefits like turn-by-turn directions and wrong-turn alerts.

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Nature|Waterfalls

The Zoar Trail Is One Of The Best Waterfall Hikes In Connecticut

Published Jul 8, 2024

Written by 

Lisa Sammons

There are so many waterfalls in Connecticut that it can be tough to keep up with them all. If you've got a hankering for a great hike with a cascade or two, you won't have much difficulty finding one, no matter where you are in the state. One of our favorite hiking trails with a waterfall in Connecticut is the Zoar Trail near Monroe, CT. It's tucked away in the wild and rugged Paugussett State Forest, and at 6.3 miles in length with quite a bit of elevation gain, it's moderately challenging and might not be the best option for inexperienced or out-of-shape hikers. However, the views are definitely worth the effort, and you'll even get to enjoy a little waterfall along the route! Check it out:

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You'll start the route along the shore of Lake Zoar, right across the water from Kettletown State Park.

A serene lake surrounded by lush greenery and trees, with a cloudy blue sky reflecting on the water's surface.
Michael Verselli/AllTrails

The water views are lovely, but keep in mind that in the warm months, the shade and water will bring quite a bit of bugs. Don't forget your insect repellent!

A serene river scene with lush green hills, calm water, and fallen logs along the shore under a clear blue sky.
Raven Harden/AllTrails

The trail passes right by the lovely little Pryden Brook Falls, a lengthy waterfall featuring a plunge followed by 40 feet of cascading falls.

A serene forest scene featuring a small waterfall cascading over rocks, surrounded by lush green trees.
Rich Infante/AllTrails

If you explore the entirety of the 6.3-mile trail, it will take about three hours.

A serene lake surrounded by lush greenery, with a clear blue sky reflecting on the water's surface.
Daniel Okech/AllTrails

There are a few rocky scrambles when you get to the forested portion of the trail, and in all, it's considered moderately difficult.

A rocky path through a lush green forest with sunlight filtering through the trees.
Daniel Okech/AllTrails

Once you get deep into the forest, it'll feel like you entered another world! This is such a pretty trail that's definitely worthy of adventure.

A serene forest scene featuring a small, rocky stream surrounded by lush green foliage and trees.
Greg Johnson/AllTrails

For more information about this great waterfall trail near Monroe, CT, check out our friends at AllTrails.

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Are you a big fan of hiking in Connecticut? Consider a free trial of AllTrails+. It's got great benefits like downloadable trail maps, wrong-turn alerts, and more.

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