Connecticut
Nature|Waterfalls

Discover One Of Connecticut’s Most Majestic Waterfalls – No Hiking Necessary

Wadsworth Falls State Park offers accessible views of two beautiful waterfalls without the need for hiking.

Updated Mar 8, 2022

Written by 

Natalie Clunan

Everyone should be able to witness firsthand the natural wonder of a spectacular waterfall. For small children or people with mobility challenges, it can be quite a task to take the long journey to see some of the falls in Connecticut. Luckily, Wadsworth Falls is accessible to anyone and you don't even have to hike to see this magnificent sight. Looking for "waterfalls near me"? Add this one to the top of your travel bucket list!

Wadsworth Falls State Park in Middletown and Middlefield has two beautiful waterfalls. Visit the Big Falls without any hiking, just a very short stroll.

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Wadsworth Big Falls is the site where the 52-foot wide Coginchaug River pours over a rocky shelf and tumbles 30 feet into a pool below.

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Park in the lot off of Cherry Hill Road and you'll hear the rush of water as you step out of your vehicle. This parking lot is connected to the base of the falls by a short level path.

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Connecticut Department of Energy & Environmental Protection

The dramatic waterfall is quite a sight to behold in any season — during the winter the ice formations are incredible.

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During the warmer months, the flow varies with the seasons but this oasis is always worth a visit.

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There's no swimming at the falls, but a nearby sandy swimming spot in the park will satisfy your need to cool off on a warm day.

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Bring a picnic and enjoy lunch in the shaded area along the brook. If you enjoy hiking, explore the network of trails within the park.

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Google Images/Carlos Quiles

Are you ready to pay a visit to this great state park and its stunning waterfall?

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Google Images/Deepak Basapathi

You can find Wadsworth Falls State Park at 721 Wadsworth St., Middletown, CT. To access the parking lot nearest the Big Falls, continue down the road and turn onto Cherry Street. For more information about this park, visit the Connecticut DEEP website.

Have you visited the inspiring Wadsworth Falls recently? To explore even more of Connecticut's amazing waterfalls, take this weekend road trip. You might want to join our Connecticut Nature Lovers Group on Facebook to see the best hiking, beaches, waterfalls, and much more.

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

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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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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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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.

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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!

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

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

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

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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.

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

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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