5 Things to Do at Connecticut’s Amazing Waterfalls

Five winding miles of trail take mountain bikers across stone arched bridges to both the Little and Big Falls in Middlefield’s Wadsworth State Park. It’s a great way to get a scenic workout and then cool off in the refreshing mist of a waterfall.

In downtown Norwich, you will discover a waterfall that is also a piece of Connecticut history. Yantic Falls, also known as Indian Leap or Uncas Leap Falls, was the site of an ill-fated 1643 meeting between the Mohegan and Narragansett tribes. Later, it was developed for industrial use in the early 20^th century. You can view the falls from a footbridge above or via a short hike on a trail alongside the gorge. (Look for the plaque that tells the whole story!)

The impressive Great Falls can be found in the aptly named town of Falls Village, or Canaan, Connecticut. The Housatonic River flows over the 60-foot ledge, but the falls are particularly spectacular when the dam just upriver releases. You can put a kayak in the whitewater beneath the falls and make the most of this awesome spot.

Enjoy a hike on the trail to Spruce Brook Falls, located in the Naugatuck State Forest. The 15-foot drop causes rushing water to swirl and bubble around like a bath, just one reason many have called this one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Connecticut.

Named for a Native American legend surrounding this Shelton park's scenic waterfalls and the splash pool that creates a “well” at the base of the falls, Indian Well Falls feature a shaded picnic grove at the water's edge. You can’t swim in the falls themselves, but there is a beach area at adjacent Indian Well State Park where you can cool off in the Housatonic River.

For free and easy transportation to Indian Well State Park check out ParkConneCT for more information. Need help planning your trip? Visit CTrides.com/transit for more details.

In downtown Norwich, you will discover a waterfall that is also a piece of Connecticut history. Yantic Falls, also known as Indian Leap or Uncas Leap Falls, was the site of an ill-fated 1643 meeting between the Mohegan and Narragansett tribes. Later, it was developed for industrial use in the early 20^th century. You can view the falls from a footbridge above or via a short hike on a trail alongside the gorge. (Look for the plaque that tells the whole story!)