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Kent Falls State Park: A Cascading Connecticut Treasure

Discover the beauty of Kent Falls State Park: cascading waterfalls, scenic trails, and a peaceful escape in the Litchfield Hills of Connecticut.

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Kent Falls State Park, nestled in the Litchfield Hills, is a scenic escape renowned for its stunning 250-foot waterfall. The park offers accessible trails, picnic areas, and a covered bridge, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers of all abilities.

A brief summary to Kent Falls State Park

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

Local tips

  • Visit during the quieter months (November-April) for a more peaceful experience and a chance to see the falls partially or fully frozen.
  • Connecticut residents with state-registered vehicles enjoy free parking, while out-of-state vehicles are charged a fee.
  • Arrive early, especially on weekends and holidays, as the parking lot tends to fill up quickly, and the park may close temporarily when full.
  • Bring a camera to capture the stunning views from the various viewing platforms along the trails.
  • Wear comfortable shoes suitable for hiking, especially if you plan to explore the trails beyond the ADA-accessible path.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Kent Falls State Park is located on Route 7 (Kent Cornwall Road) in Kent, CT. From the North, travel south on Route 7; the park is approximately 3 miles south of the intersection with Route 45. From the South, travel north on Route 7; the park is about 4.5 miles north of the village of Kent. Parking is available in the park's lot. Out-of-state vehicles are charged $10 on weekdays and $15 on weekends and holidays. Connecticut residents with state-registered vehicles park for free.

  • Walking

    From the center of Kent, CT, follow Route 7 North for approximately 4.5 miles. The walk is along a state highway, so exercise caution. Once at the park entrance, a short walk across the covered bridge leads to the base of the falls. This initial path is ADA-accessible. Be aware that there are no pedestrian-specific paths alongside Route 7.

Unlock the Best of Kent Falls State Park

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Discover more about Kent Falls State Park

Kent Falls State Park, located in the charming town of Kent, Connecticut, is a natural wonderland that draws visitors with its breathtaking series of waterfalls. The park's centerpiece, Kent Falls, plunges 250 feet down a rocky gorge in a quarter mile, creating a mesmerizing display of nature's power and beauty. The largest cascade dramatically drops over 70 feet into a serene reflecting pool before continuing its descent. Historically, the area was known as Scatacook by Native Americans, who utilized the falls for fishing and camping. During colonial times, the brook's power was harnessed by mills. Kent Falls officially became a state park in 1919, thanks to a donation from the White Memorial Foundation. Today, visitors can explore several trails offering different perspectives of the falls. The ADA-accessible paved path leads to the base of the falls, providing stunning views for all. For a closer experience, the Kent Falls Steps Trail winds up along the falls, offering scenic vantage points. The moderate 0.84-mile Red and Yellow Loop trail provides a more challenging hike with rewarding views. The park also features a replica covered bridge, picnic areas, and restroom facilities, making it ideal for a family outing. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat or an adventurous hike, Kent Falls State Park offers a memorable experience in the heart of New England.

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