Posted in Connecticut Road Trips January 22, 2023 by

Connecticut’s Scenic Waterfall Loop Will Take You To 4 Different Waterfalls

When it comes to natural wonders, the waterfalls in Connecticut are one of everyone’s favorites. And if you’re looking for a great road trip that will show you some of the best waterfalls in Connecticut, you’ll definitely want to check out this scenic waterfall loop in Connecticut!

Google Maps
The entire trip will take right around four hours of driving time. You'll get to see some of the biggest and most hidden waterfalls in Connecticut, along with two of our loveliest state parks. You can view the entire itinerary on Google Maps and add or remove stops if you like.
1. Kent Falls State Park: 462 Kent Cornwall Rd, Kent, CT 06757
Mike Stewart/Google Maps
Did you know Kent Falls State Park was named the most beautiful place in Connecticut? The crown jewel of this state park is the series of cascades that continue for 250 feet.
Kent Falls State Park, 462 Kent Cornwall Rd, Kent, CT 06757, USA
bob sweezey/Google Maps
However, the rest of the park is definitely worth exploring if you have the time. There are several creeks, wonderful hiking trails, and even a covered bridge to see here.
2. Enders State Forest: Granby, CT 06035
Michael M/Google Maps
Enders Falls is a rare quintuple waterfall within a massive state forest that shares its name.
Enders State Forest, Granby, CT 06035, USA
Koby Kovitz/Google Maps
While this place is deemed a state forest, it also includes wetlands and creeks within its 2,100+ acres. A recent improvement project means that you can now get even better views of the waterfall than before!
3. Chapman Falls at Devil's Hopyard State Park: Devil's Hopyard State Park, 366 Hopyard Rd, East Haddam, CT 06423
Brendon T./Google Maps
Devil's Hopyard State Park is an allegedly haunted state park in East Haddam that has some fascinating legends surrounding it.
Vinh Phuc/Google Maps
According to Puritan folklore, the devil himself used to sit atop Chapman Falls and play his fiddle! Lesser demons sat at the base, brewing mysterious potions.
Devil's Hopyard State Park, 366 Hopyard Rd, East Haddam, CT 06423, USA
4. Buttermilk Falls: Plymouth, CT 06786
David Scarmozzino/Alltrails
The last stop on this road trip in Connecticut is the lovely Buttermilk Falls. The trail that leads to the falls is one of our favorite easy hikes in Connecticut.
Buttermilk Falls, Plymouth, CT 06786, USA
Lauren Palasiewicz/Alltrails
The entire trail spans about 38 miles, but to reach the waterfall, you just need to trek about 0.6 miles.

You don’t need to Google waterfalls near me anymore with this incredible road trip experience. How many of these waterfalls in Connecticut have you seen? Do you have any favorites that weren’t included on this road trip? Share your thoughts in the comments!

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The OIYS Visitor Center

Waterfalls In Connecticut

January 23, 2023
Megan Todaro

What are the best waterfall hikes in Connecticut?

Waterfalls in Connecticut can be enjoyed in various ways, including outdoor hiking! Oftentimes the best hidden waterfalls in Connecticut can only be reached via a hike. A few of the best waterfalls in Connecticut include:

  • Wadsworth Big Falls, Middletown
  • Indian Well Falls, Shelton
  • Blackledge Falls, Glastonbury
  • Chapman Falls, East Haddam
  • Falls Brook Falls, Hartland
  • Enders Falls, Granby
  • Great Falls of the Housatonic, Canaan
  • Nonnewaug Falls, Bethlehem
  • Kent Falls, Kent
  • Yantic Falls, Norwich

The best part about these Connecticut waterfalls is that the hikes aren't too strenuous. Most of these waterfall trails are short and sweet.

Are there any good swimming holes in Connecticut?

Yes, there are quite a few swimming holes in Connecticut that are worth exploring. Usually a seasonal activity, locals and visitors flock to these swimming holes in order to enjoy a bit of reprieve from the summer heat. For instance, Enders Falls in Granby is known for being a delightful swimming hole. Meanwhile, Salmon River in Colchester also offers some riverside swimming. There are even a few remote waterfall swimming holes, like Riga Falls in Salisbury. Even being so remote, this place can get a bit busy on really hot days.

What are the best outdoor adventures in Connecticut?

The best outdoor adventures in Connecticut vary in terms of attraction, experience, and season. A few of the best Connecticut outdoor activities include: 

  • Grassy Hill Country Club (Orange)
  • Westmoor Park (West Hartford)
  • Pardee Rose Gardens (Hamden)
  • Hurst Farm (Andover)
  • Ellsworth Hill Orchard & Berry Farm (Sharon)
  • Burgis Brook Alpacas (Canterbury)
  • Putnam River Trail (Putnam)
  • Sunny Valley Preserve (New Milford)
  • Creamery Brook Bison (Brooklyn)
  • RiverQuest (Haddam)
  • Rolnick Observatory (Westport)
  • New London Mural Walk (New London)

Keep in mind the seasons for these adventures. You probably wouldn’t be searching for the best hidden waterfalls near me during wintertime. Nor would you attempt to ski during summertime.