Wadsworth Falls State Park: A Natural Connecticut Gem

4.5 (2095)

Explore Connecticut's natural beauty at Wadsworth Falls State Park: hiking, waterfalls, swimming, and picnicking await!

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Wadsworth Falls State Park

Wadsworth Falls State Park, nestled in Middletown and Middlefield, Connecticut, offers a refreshing escape into nature with its scenic waterfalls, hiking trails, and recreational activities. Established in 1942, the park's 285 acres provide a diverse landscape for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages.

A brief summary to Wadsworth Falls State Park

721 Wadsworth St, Middletown, Connecticut, 06457, US
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Wadsworth Falls State Park.

Visit during the spring to witness the waterfalls at their fullest, thanks to the melting snow and increased rainfall.
Arrive early, especially on weekends, as parking can fill up quickly, particularly at the Cherry Hill Road lot near the Big Falls.
Out-of-state visitors need to purchase a day pass, which costs $15 on weekends and holidays and $10 on weekdays, from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend.
Bring appropriate footwear for hiking, as some trails can be icy or slippery, especially during winter.
Take the purple trail to visit the Wadsworth Mansion at Long Hill, a historic site adjacent to the park.

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Getting There

Driving

From Middletown, Connecticut, follow Route 66 West. Turn onto Route 157 North. The main entrance to Wadsworth Falls State Park will be on your left. Parking is available at the main entrance (770 Wadsworth St). Note that out-of-state vehicles are charged a parking fee from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend: $15 on weekends and holidays, $10 on weekdays. Connecticut residents with registered vehicles can park for free. Parking at the Cherry Hill Road lot (25 Cherry Hill Rd) provides the easiest access to the Big Falls. This lot is smaller and fills up quickly.
Walking

From the Inn at Middletown, head north on Main Street towards Washington Street. Turn left onto Washington Street and continue onto Route 66 West. Turn left onto Route 157 North and walk for approximately 1.5 miles. The entrance to Wadsworth Falls State Park will be on your left. This is approximately a 30-minute walk. Remember to check the weather conditions and wear appropriate footwear. There are no costs associated with walking to the park.

Discover more about Wadsworth Falls State Park

Wadsworth Falls State Park, a 285-acre natural haven in Connecticut, invites visitors to explore its captivating beauty and engage in various outdoor pursuits. The park's history dates back to 1942 when Colonel Clarence S. Wadsworth, a conservationist, donated the land to the state, ensuring its preservation for future generations.The park boasts two prominent waterfalls: Wadsworth Big Falls and Wadsworth Little Falls. The Big Falls, the more renowned of the two, showcases the Coginchaug River cascading 30 feet over a wide shelf of Hampden basalt. A short, accessible path leads to an overlook, offering stunning views of the falls. For a closer experience, a brief downhill walk brings you to the water's edge. Little Falls, while smaller, presents a charming "staircase falls" effect as it descends approximately 40 feet over sandstone.Wadsworth Falls State Park features over 4 miles of trails that wind through diverse terrains. Hiking enthusiasts can explore the woods, discover the Little Falls, and traverse streams. The purple trail connects to the Wadsworth Mansion at Long Hill, a historic district adjacent to the park. In the main section of the park, the red-blazed trail follows the Coginchaug River and leads to Bible Rock, a granite boulder with a biblical inscription.Beyond its scenic trails and waterfalls, the park offers a range of recreational activities. During the warmer months, visitors can enjoy swimming in the designated swimming area and picnicking in the shaded areas. Fishing is permitted in the Coginchaug River, stocked with trout, though a fishing license is required for those over 16. During the winter, the park transforms into a snowy playground, offering opportunities for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.