Connecticut’s Best-Kept Secret for Nature Lovers Is This State Forest

We have so many natural wonders in Connecticut, but a few remain overlooked by most, except maybe locals. Salmon River State Forest, undeniably a hidden natural gem in Connecticut, promises an idyllic backdrop for exploring. Its hidden gem status often means fewer crowds, promising visitors the chance to relax and reconnect with nature and each other. If you’ve not been, add it to your must-visit list.

Soak in the endless beauty of nature at Salmon River State Forest in Colchester, a gem that spans nearly 7,000 acres and promises plenty to do for visitors of all ages. Make it an adventure for the whole family, including your pup. Leashed pups are allowed on the forest’s trails and picnic areas.

Parking at Salmon River State Forest is free, and if you’re a morning person, you might want to start your day fishing in the Salmon River. Cast a line to catch several types of trout and salmon, and enjoy the sounds of the forest - birds singing as they greet the day, trees rustling in the breeze, and the gentle flow of the streams.

Or, if you’re not into fishing, fuel up for your day at the park with a leisurely meal at one of the picnic tables. Since the forest is open from 8 a.m. to sunset, you’ll have plenty of time to eat, relax, and explore. Remember to pack out what you bring to help keep Connecticut’s natural spaces clean.

With nearly a dozen trails ranging from easy to difficult, hiking makes it easy to explore the forest. If you prefer short and sweet, follow the 1.7-mile Dickinson Creek Trail, which usually takes around 35 minutes. The kid-friendly trail meanders through the forest and past a creek, wildflowers in the warmer months, mushrooms popping out of the ground, and moss-covered logs.  

One of the longest trails in Salmon River State Forest, the 8.4-mile Greyville Falls Loop Trail promises more of a challenge. The trail is popular with hikers and mountain bikers, so you may have to share the path if it’s busy. Allot around three hours for your hike that will take you over wooden footbridges and past creeks, tiny waterfalls, and rock formations. Wear sturdy shoes to help navigate the muddy sections, and download a map from AllTrails+ to help with the lack of trail markings.

Try letterboxing, too, a fun activity at this hidden gem forest. Here’s how it works: As you explore the forest, look for a plastic container (the letterbox) with a stamp, a stamp pad, and a record book inside. Bring a stamp, stamp pad, and record book, too. When you find the letterbox, use the stamp in the container to stamp your record book, and stamp the container’s record book with your stamp. Before you can do that, you’ll have to find the containers by looking for clues hidden in many of the forests in Connecticut, including Salmon River State Forest.

After a day exploring Salmon River State Forest, grab a burger and fries at Harry’s Place in Colchester, a seasonal burger joint in Connecticut.

Do you have a favorite hidden natural gem in Connecticut? Share it with us, and we might feature it in an upcoming article. And if you're more into discovering new places rather than sharing them, give our new Travel Planner a shot!