Connecticut is home to many beautiful waterfalls, ranging from cascading falls in the northwest corner of the state to powerful plunges in the south. All of these waterfalls have one thing in common: they are great places to take a break and enjoy nature’s beauty. Below are New England’s best kept secrets.
1. Buttermilk Falls – Plymouth, CT
Buttermilk Falls is a spectacular waterfall located in Plymouth, Connecticut. The falls are found along the Naugatuck River and offer stunning views of the surrounding area. The falls have several levels and feature cascading waterfalls that range from 10 to 15 feet high. There is also an observation platform at the top which offers panoramic views of both sides of the river valley below and beyond into rural Litchfield County.
Buttermilk Falls has been designated a Natural Area Preserve by The Nature Conservancy due to its unique geological features and abundance of plant species such as black cherry trees, wildflowers, ferns, and mosses.
Address: 41.64398 -73.00482 | From Hartford CT: Map
2. Mount Carmel Springs Falls – Sleeping Giant State Park
Mount Carmel Springs Falls is a beautiful waterfall located in Sleeping Giant State Park, Connecticut. It is a scenic cascade of water that drops approximately 25 feet into an inviting pool below. The falls are easily accessible from the park’s main road and can be reached by either taking a short hike or driving to the designated parking area.
The view of the falls from above provides the most stunning views of both its height and breadth. Mount Carmel Springs Falls has been known as one of the most scenic spots within Sleeping Giant State Park since its creation in 1921.
The water cascades over large rocks before finally emptying out into a large swimming hole. There are also several other activities in the area to enjoy such as swimming (the depths vary depending on rainfall), fishing (with valid license), or simply exploring the park with their various trail system.
Address: 200 Mount Carmel Ave. Hamden, CT 06518 | From New Haven CT: Map
3. Burr Falls
Burr Falls is a beautiful waterfall located in Burr Pond State Park, Connecticut. It cascades over 45 feet through rocky ledges and tiers before ending within a pond below. The area around the falls also offers great hiking opportunities with trails leading to nearby attractions such as Mount Tom and other waterfalls.
Fishing can also be enjoyed at Burr Pond where trout, bass, and yellow perch are present. If that isn’t enough, spend a full day here and go explore nearby historical sites such as the historic old Torrington Cemetery.
Address: 384 Burr Mountain Rd, Torrington, CT 06790 | From Hartford CT: Map
4. Chapman Falls – East Haddam
Chapman Falls is a beautiful water attraction located in Devil’s Hopyard State Park in East Haddam, Connecticut. The falls are named after the local farmer, Amos Chapman, who owned the land in the late 1800s.
The park encompasses 860 acres of pristine woodlands and includes a variety of attractions such as miles of hiking trails, fishing spots, campgrounds, and more. The highlight of this state park is undoubtedly Chapman Falls where visitors can view its spectacular cascading waterfalls from multiple viewpoints along its banks. A short trail leads to an observation deck that overlooks the 60-foot tall waterfall which flows over granite rock ledges before plunging into a deep pool below.
Address: East Haddam, CT 06423 | From Hartford CT: Map
5. Great Falls – Canaan
Great Falls in Canaan, Connecticut is a stunning natural attraction located on the Housatonic River. The falls are made up of three separate cascades that drop a total of thirty feet. Visitors to Great Falls can experience the beauty and power of this unique waterfall while enjoying its history and scenic landscape.
The area around Great Falls was an important stop along the Underground Railroad during the Civil War era. Today, visitors can explore trails that meander through woodlands filled with wildlife. There is also plenty of fishing spots near Great Falls for those who want to try their luck at catching some trout or bass from the river’s edge. During summer months when water levels are low enough, visitors can even take part in whitewater rafting activities near Great Falls.
Address: 41.64398 -73.00482 | From Hartford CT: Map
6. Burlington Falls
Burlington Falls is a beautiful and tranquil spot located in the state of Connecticut. It’s an ideal place to relax and take in the breathtaking views of nature at its finest. The falls are part of the Farmington River, which runs through Burlington on its journey from Massachusetts to Long Island Sound.
The main attraction at Burlington Falls is the scenic waterfall itself, which stands approximately twenty feet tall as it cascades down into a pool below. Visitors can view this natural wonder from various angles, including atop one of two stone bridges that span over the river or from a nearby overlook platform. During springtime, when snowmelt runoff is highest, visitors may be lucky enough to witness some truly impressive displays of waterfalls thundering down the rocks!
At Burlington Falls there are plenty of other activities for visitors to enjoy besides just admiring nature’s beauty. Hiking trails meander around and along both sides of the river offering stunning views as well as opportunities for bird watching or wildlife spotting. Not far away lies Lake Garda State Park with miles upon miles worth of trails available for biking or hiking within its boundaries.
Address: Canaan, CT 06031 | From Hartford CT: Map
7. Wadsworth Little Falls
Wadsworth Little Falls is located in Wadsworth Falls State Park, a scenic park located in Middletown, Connecticut. The park is named after Colonel Benjamin Wadsworth who purchased the land back in 1709 and developed it into an agricultural estate. The highlight of this state park is the picturesque waterfall known as Wadsworth Little Falls.
This 16-foot cascade over traprock ledges and can be viewed from several vantage points throughout the park. It’s also possible to get up close to the falls by taking one of two trails, the Orange Trail or Blue Trail that lead directly to them. After you have completed your journey, there are other activities around to enjoy like fishing and boating on Lake Lillinonah or camping at one of five designated campsites.
Address: 721 Wadsworth St, Middletown, CT 06457 | From Hartford CT: Map
8. Roaring Brook Falls – Cheshire
Roaring Brook Falls is a popular natural attraction located in Cheshire, Connecticut. The falls cascade down over a 70 foot cliff in the woods of Roaring Brook Park. The impressive waterfall draws thousands of visitors every year take in all its beauty. The park has been open since 1877 and features many walking trails that lead up to the top of the falls.
These paths are well maintained by local volunteers and offer stunning views of both Roaring Brook Falls as well as other nearby attractions such as Sleeping Giant State Park, Quinnipiac River Gorge, and even parts of Long Island Sound on clear days. There are plenty of benches along the way for you to rest at or take time out just to admire nature’s artwork around you.
At the bottom of Roaring Brook Falls is a great swimming hole perfect in summer months when visitors need to cool off before hiking back down. Many people come here simply to experience a day out in mother nature and enjoy Connecticut’s natural beauty.
Address: 827 Roaring Brook Rd, Cheshire, CT 06410 | From Hartford CT: Map
9. Enders Falls – Granby
Enders Falls is a scenic waterfall located in Enders State Forest, Connecticut. The falls are part of the Westfield River and drop approximately 20 feet over several ledges. They can be accessed via an easy 1-mile loop trail that begins at the park entrance. Once at the falls, take some time to relax and take in all the spectacular views of the cascading water from high above.
The area around Enders Falls was originally owned by John Enders who purchased it in 1745. In 1855, Enders’ grandson sold off much of the land surrounding the falls to local farmers for agricultural use. The remaining portion became known as “Enders Park” and included a pond near the base of the falls that was used for swimming and fishing. Today, Enders Falls remains an important natural attraction for residents and tourists in Granby.
Address: Granby, CT 06035 | From Hartford CT: Map
10. Yantic Falls – Norwich
Yantic Falls in Norwich, Connecticut is a beautiful natural attraction located along the Yantic River. The falls are made up of two sections: an upper tier that has a single drop of about 30 feet and a lower tier with multiple drops totaling around 65 feet. The total fall from top to bottom is 95 feet, making it one of the highest waterfalls in Connecticut.
At Yantic Falls you can view the attraction by several scenic overlooks.
Address: Yantic Falls, Norwich, CT 06360 | From Hartford CT: Map
11. Carpenter’s Falls
Carpenters Waterfall is a natural waterfall located in the town of Granby, Connecticut. The waterfall is located on the West Branch Farmington River and is one of the most popular attractions in the area. It is especially popular with hikers and kayakers due to its easy access from nearby trails, rivers, and roads.
The falls are named after Thomas Carpenter, who settled near here in 1680. He was an early settler of what would eventually become Granby. The falls were used by him for grinding grain, but today they serve as a scenic spot for to enjoy nature’s beauty up close. The waterfalls are about fifteen feet high with several tiers cascading down into a deep pool below. The waters then continue into an old mill pond before joining back up with the river downstream.
Address: 41.9462535 -72.8525750 | From Hartford CT: Map
12. Stair Brook Falls – North Branford
Stair Brook Waterfall is a stunning natural waterfall located in North Branford, Connecticut. The waterfall can be found at the intersection of Route 80 and Stair Brook Road. It’s an easy drive from New Haven or Hartford and makes for a great day trip!
The waterfall cascades down a rocky cliff face that is nestled among the trees. Its beauty has attracted photographers, hikers, and nature lovers since its discovery in the late 1800s. In fact, it was even featured on postcards during that era! At the top of the falls you’ll find two small pools where you can relax and enjoy your surroundings.
There are also several trails nearby that offer great views of Stair Brook Waterfall. Although it may not be considered amongst some of America’s most impressive waterfalls, this Connecticut attraction still offers visitors an unforgettable experience.
Address: 41.4245 -72.7237 | From Hartford CT: Map
13. Aspetuck Falls – Litchfield
Aspetuck Waterfall is a stunning natural landmark located in the town of Litchfield, Connecticut. The waterfall is well known in the state for its majestic and powerful 20 foot plunge into a pool below. It is one of the more popular waterfalls in the New England area and provides visitors with an awe-inspiring experience.
The Aspetuck River flows through a narrow valley before tumbling over the edge of a geologic formation, creating this incredible attraction. The waterfall can be seen from a few observations areas during your hike up to the base. Other common points of interests that travelers come to enjoy is the Housatonic Meadows State Park and White Memorial Conservation Center.
Address: Aspetuck Falls, Fairfield, CT 06824 | From New Haven CT: Map
14. Kent Falls
Kent Waterfall is a picturesque set of plunges and cascade waters located in Kent, Connecticut. It’s breathtaking views, scenic wilderness, and over 250 feet of various falls attracts thousands of people from all over the country.
There aren’t many places like Kent Falls State Park where you can see five different classes of waterfalls in the same area. A trip to Kent Falls is one way to view just about every different classification of waterfall. From horsetails to punchbowls, each falls has their own unique style of flowing waters that cascade down rocks and ledges. We recommend spending at least 3-4 hours here to try and take in everything the state park has to offer.
Other popular activities near Kent Waterfall is swimming at Lake Waramaug State Park or exploring historic sites such as Bulls Bridge and Bull’s Ferry Inn.
Address: 462 Kent Cornwall Rd, Kent, CT 06757 | From Hartford CT: Map
15. Dean’s Ravine Falls
Dean’s Ravine Waterfall is a stunning natural feature located in Canaan, Connecticut. This majestic attraction of water cascades down a rocky ravine and into the Housatonic River. The waterfalls are fed by two separate streams that merge at the base of Dean’s Ravine before continuing on.
Visitors to this area can enjoy an easy hike along the wooded trails before admiring this horsetail fall.
Address: Litchfield County, Connecticut | From Hartford CT: Map
Location and Map of Waterfalls in Connecticut
Check out our Connecticut Waterfalls Map for even more locations and directions on some of the states best falls to visit.
15 Best and Scenic Waterfalls in Connecticut
Aspetuck Falls
Burlington Falls
Burr Falls
Buttermilk Falls
Carpenter’s Falls
Chapman Falls
Dean’s Ravine Falls
Enders Falls
Great Falls
Kent Falls
Mount Carmel Springs Falls
Roaring Brook Falls
Stair Brook Falls
Wadsworth Little Falls
Yantic Falls
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