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Devil's Hopyard State Park: A Natural Escape

Explore scenic waterfalls, hike diverse trails, and discover local legends at this 1,000-acre Connecticut state park.

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Devil's Hopyard State Park in East Haddam, Connecticut, is a 1,000-acre haven featuring Chapman Falls, diverse hiking trails, and a rich history steeped in local folklore. It's a perfect spot for outdoor activities and scenic beauty.

A brief summary to Devil's Hopyard State Park

  • Monday 8 am-5:30 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-5:30 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-5:30 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-5:30 pm
  • Friday 8 am-5:30 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-5:30 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-5:30 am

Local tips

  • Visit during the spring or fall for the best birdwatching opportunities and comfortable hiking weather.
  • Explore the Orange Vista Loop for panoramic views and a glimpse of the Devil's Oven.
  • Bring a camera to capture the beauty of Chapman Falls and the surrounding natural rock formations.
  • Pack a picnic to enjoy at the scenic picnic areas near the Eightmile River.
  • Wear sturdy shoes for hiking, as some trails have uneven terrain.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Devil's Hopyard State Park is accessible by car. From CT Route 9, take Exit 7 and turn left onto CT Route 82 East/154 North. Turn right at the first traffic light, following CT Route 82 east and look for signs leading to the park. From I-395, take Exit 80 west and turn right onto CT Route 82 west. Navigate to Hopyard Road, following the signs. There is no fee for parking.

  • Walking

    If you are near the center of East Haddam, follow CT Route 82 East. Turn right onto Hopyard Road and follow the signs to the park. The walk is approximately 2 miles and should take around 40 minutes. There are no sidewalks for a portion of the route, so exercise caution.

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Discover more about Devil's Hopyard State Park

Devil's Hopyard State Park, located in East Haddam, Connecticut, offers a diverse landscape spanning 1,000 acres. The park's main attraction is Chapman Falls, a 60-foot cascading waterfall over a Scotland Schist stone formation. The falls powered Beebe's Mills in the 1800s, adding to the area's historical significance. The park's name is rooted in local legends. One story suggests a man named Dibble had a hops garden, while another attributes the name to the Devil's supposed hoofprints found in the potholes near Chapman Falls. These cylindrical potholes were formed by stones trapped in eddies, gradually carving depressions into the rock. Established in 1919, the park provides various recreational activities. Hiking enthusiasts can explore trails like the Orange Vista Loop, offering panoramic views and geological formations. The Blue & Yellow Loop showcases pegmatite boulders and metamorphic schist outcrops. The park also features a covered bridge, adding to its charm. Birdwatching is popular, and anglers can fish for trout in the Eightmile River. The park also offers picnic areas with tables and grills. For those wishing to extend their stay, the Devil's Hopyard Campground provides 21 wooded sites.

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