When visiting Connecticut, there is no need to travel far and wide to find some of the best waterfalls that New England has to offer. The state of Connecticut is filled with waterfalls that are not only beautiful, but also spectacular.
All it takes is a little hiking (not too strenuous) and having one of these beauties calling your name. In this post, I will highlight the 16 best waterfalls in Connecticut that are worth visiting. They range from the smallest yet most accessible waterfall to the most popular waterfalls, which are not only beautiful but also extremely easy to access.
Best Waterfalls in Connecticut
1. Kent Falls
Kent Falls is perhaps the most popular waterfall in Connecticut. Plunging over a quarter mile down a rocky traverse, Kent Falls is perfectly formed with multiple cascades before crashing into the small pool below. The best part about visiting this scenic spot is how close it is to civilization yet how deep into nature you feel.
This waterfall offers much more than just the main drop. There are several cascades nearby that make for attractive foregrounds when taking photographs. You can also climb behind them for an amazing view (not recommended if you aren’t sure-footed). The hike down to the base is fairly moderate but offers some interesting rock formations along the way.
The best part about Kent Falls is the surrounding area that provides photographic opportunities at almost any angle. With plenty of flowers and forests, I stopped here for a few hours to take some great photos. It is an amazing destination for photographers and outdoor enthusiasts looking to see something different in Connecticut.
2. Roaring Brook Falls
Roaring Brook Falls is one of the best waterfalls in Connecticut for photographers and outdoor enthusiasts. The beautiful cascade plunges 80 feet down and has an interesting flow very different than most waterfalls in the state. The best angle for photographing this waterfall is from above, as you can include the surrounding greenery and forest as part of your composition.
The hike to the falls will take through some of the widest variety of ecosystems you’ll find in Connecticut. The hike to the falls is quick and easy (about an hour or less), with very few sections of steep ascents. You will be surrounded by wetlands, forests, meadows, all while walking along a smooth path.
There aren’t many waterfalls that you can admire from a low vantage point like this one. Not only is it a great place to relax, but you will certainly impress your friends with a photo of yourself from the bottom of the falls when you get home. It’s a wonderfully fun hike that any nature lover should take.
3. Southford Falls, Southbury
Nestled in the southwestern part of the city of Southbury is Southford Falls, a well-known Connecticut attraction that deserves more recognition. The Southford Fall cascades a total of 50 feet down into a large pool below, with several small drops along the way. This fall was once harnessed to power local sawmills, gristmills, and the shops of tradesmen. But today, it is one of few waterfalls in Connecticut where you can take a short hike to see it.
The falls are set deep within the Southford State Park, with plenty of greenery around them that can be used to frame your shots. The rocky walls of this fall also provide some interesting foregrounds when taking photos. Combine all these different views with the beautiful setting of a forest and a river flowing down below, and you have a great option for a hike.
So, no matter what time of year you choose, Southford Falls is a beautiful place to visit. The surrounding river provides plenty of opportunities for photography, while the multi-level waterfall makes an impressive scene.
4. Dean’s Ravine Falls
Another impressive waterfall in Connecticut is Dean’s Ravine Falls. It does not get the attention that other waterfalls in Connecticut receive, but it shouldn’t be overlooked because of its size and beauty.
Dean’s Ravine Falls is over 30-feet tall and has an excellent flow that cascades down the rocks before making its way downstream. It is one of the most impressive waterfalls in Connecticut, and it is perfect for people looking to capture stunning photos or just admire nature at its finest. It is surrounded by beautiful forests, making it a great place to experience nature.
The best way to experience Dean’s Ravine Falls would be by hiking the less than a mile trail that leads you down to the base of the falls. The trails are very easy and well-maintained, suitable for children and adults of all ages. The park also offers a few trails that lead you through picturesque meadows and forests, so there’s more than just the waterfall to see here.
5. Enders Falls
Enders State Forest, in the quiet town of Granby, offers some of the best hiking in all of Connecticut. And to make it even better, you get to see one of the best waterfalls in Connecticut: Enders Falls. It is one of the most popular attractions in the forest and for a good reason. The waterfalls here are beautifully scenic and come in a variety of shapes and sizes.
This fall has five distinct drops flowing over massive trap rock cliffs. With multiple cascades tumbling down the rocks, Enders Falls has an excellent visual impact. You can see all five falls by walking along the trails that lead you to closer views of each fall. The hike along the rocky ledges takes about 1 hour and gives you some dramatic viewpoints for your camera.
The highlight of the hike comes at the end when you reach the fifth fall, which consist of two drops and a natural pool below. This is a popular swimming hole for those looking to cool off after their hike. In addition, it offers magnificent views, perfect for capturing some fantastic photos.
6. Seven Falls, Middletown
Perhaps the most unique waterfall in Connecticut is Seven Falls. The falls are actually seven separate plunges that range in height from 10 to 30 feet each. Although they are spread out along the trail, you can see all of them as they are close to each other.
One of my favorite parts about this waterfall is how it seems out of place. The surrounding environment does not seem like it would be home to a series of impressive waterfalls. Yet somehow, the Seven Falls manages to survive here with some interesting rock formations that support the falls and create small plunge pools below.
One thing that makes Seven Falls so unique is that the trail allows you to get close enough to photograph or observe each of the falls along the way. The trail is fairly easy, and there are multiple points of interest along the way. There are also spaces where you can sit and enjoy your packed lunch.
7. Northgate Falls
Known as one of Connecticut’s most spectacular waterfalls, Northgate Falls offers interesting sights. This waterfall, while not tall, packs a powerful punch with its volume of water. Multiple cascades along the hillside make up this spectacular waterfall. It may not be tall, but it has more volume than any other waterfall in Connecticut.
The trail to Northgate Falls is a moderate one with rocky steps, so even beginner hikers should attempt it. The effort needed to visit this waterfall is well worth the rewarding experience you will have.
The best way to describe my experience was an assault on all five senses. The smells of the forest, the sounds of the birds and insects, the feel of the rocky trail, and the sights of multiple waterfalls coming down from steep slopes created a powerful sensory overload. This is truly a hidden gem in Connecticut that few people get to see.
8. Wadsworth Big and Little Falls
Located in Middletown, Wadsworth Big and Little Falls are some of the best waterfalls in Connecticut. The two waterfalls are close to each other, and it is easy for visitors to get a view from both angles.
The two waterfalls are located within minutes of each other. The hike to get there is very moderate, but it does require some climbing (don’t worry, there are plenty of handrails). You will first reach the Wadsworth Big falls, an impressive sight. It tumbles down the rocks in a large cascade, almost as wide as it is tall. A small path also leads down to the base of the falls, where water rushes over the rocks with great force.
About a half-mile away is the Wadsworth Little Falls. It is a small, yet picturesque waterfall. The best part is that it has a natural swimming hole at its base and a beach.
It doesn’t take long to realize that Wadsworth waterfalls are some of the most magnificent in Connecticut. The best part about them is how close they are together, making it easy for you to see both from multiple angles and get great photos.
9. Burr Falls
Located deep within Burr Pond State Park, Burr Falls is the most powerful waterfall in Connecticut. This waterfall has the most interesting shape, looking more like a ribbon than a traditional sheet of falling water. It’s made even more impressive given that it cascades over 45 feet down to the lower pool.
The surrounding area adds to the charm of this waterfall, with a beautiful backdrop of trees and foliage. And to get the best views of this fall, you need to descend down to get a completely unobstructed shot.
Although not as impressive as some other waterfalls on this list, Burr Falls are pretty rare. So it is one of the best places to visit if you want something unique and different when exploring Connecticut’s waterfalls. The falls are also very picturesque, which makes it a great place to visit if you’re looking for some good Instagram photos.
10. Buttermilk Falls, Plymouth
Buttermilk Falls is often called one of Connecticut’s most beautiful waterfalls, and with good reason. The 55-foot multi-tiered cascade has a picturesque location among the surrounding forest. And for those not used to hiking in Connecticut, Buttermilk Falls offers an easy hike that only takes about 15-20 minutes to reach the falls.
While at the falls, you cannot help but notice how special the area is. The flow of Buttermilk Falls invites you to sit, relax and enjoy a breath of fresh air in nature’s kingdom. It has a quality that makes you want to come back time and time again for a refreshing escape from a busy schedule or a place just to enjoy the surroundings.
On many weekends you will see people swimming at the base of this waterfall, which means you have an amazing opportunity to take photos from above. In short, Buttermilk Falls is nature at its best, offering everything you need in one place.
11. Great Falls
Great Falls is one of the most popular waterfalls in Connecticut that can’t be missed. This fall stands 50-feet high, and it’s a fantastic place to experience the raw power of rushing water. This is popular with whitewater kayakers, who enjoy the exhilarating rapids here.
The surrounding area for this waterfall is special because it provides plenty of open space to picnic and relax. There are also some nice trails around for hikers to explore too. But by far, the best part is checking out the falls and seeing people kayak down it.
This is a special place that shouldn’t be missed. The falls are beautiful, the rapids are exciting, and there is plenty of space to relax in between. So if you’re looking for some whitewater kayaking or just want to have a picnic with a waterfall in the background, this is the one-stop shop.
12. Mount Carmel Springs Falls
Next, I turn my attention to a lesser-known waterfall in Connecticut. Mount Carmel Springs Falls is set in the Sleeping Giant State Park in the town of Hamden. This spot is particularly unique due to its lush forest and clear waters.
The waterfall is roughly 75-feet high and composed of the main drop and several smaller falls along the way. What makes it special is its rock formations and surrounding greenery. The trees provide nice scenic views from the pool below with great shots. And while you’re here, the only sounds around this place are the trickling waterfalls and chirping birds high up in the tree. This gives you a chance to soak in the natural beauty that Connecticut has to offer.
So if you are looking for an outdoorsy weekend with great scenery and no crowds, visit Mount Carmel Springs Falls. This waterfall is a good choice for anyone looking to escape the city and find peace in nature.
13. Mill Pond Falls
Mill Pond Falls is one of the most-photographed waterfalls in Connecticut. With a footbridge that takes you over Mill Pond, this waterfall has an entirely different feel than others on this list. This is because it is much wider and very short. This has made locals refer to it as the “smallest natural waterfall in the United States.”
There is an observation area where you can see the fall drops straight into the pool below. But since most people just view them from above, I recommend making your way down the short path. You will see it is much more dramatic from this angle. While you are here, take some photos of the waterfall with the surrounding forest in the background.
Mill Pond Falls is also part of a very popular recreation area, which makes it a more accessible option than other waterfalls in the state. So while it doesn’t offer the same seclusion or wild surroundings, it can be a great place for visitors looking to take a photo.
14. Campbell Falls
If you’re looking for a waterfall with a great variety of scenery, Campbell Falls in Norfolk is hard to beat. What makes Campbell Falls unique in Connecticut is the fact that it offers several things to see and do. The falls are set deep within the Campbell Falls State Park Reserve, which offers miles of hiking trails, but the hike to get to the waterfall is short and easy.
As you make your way to the falls, you will hear the rushing water gets louder. And soon enough, you will see it plunging down with rock formations surrounding it and a small beach at its base. This gives you the opportunity to swim up close while taking in the gorgeous surroundings.
Campbell Falls is a great place for families and adventurers of all ages. It’s not incredibly large, but it’s perfect for the nature lover who enjoys a bit of easy hiking and swimming.
15. Spruce Brook Falls
Having experienced and enjoyed much of what Connecticut has to offer, it’s hard for me to pick a favorite. Nevertheless, I feel confident saying that Spruce Brook Falls is the best waterfall in Connecticut.
Spruce Brook Falls consists of a few small cascades that join together into a picturesque fall dropping over 15-feet into a quiet pool at the bottom. I was impressed by its quiet location, which makes it an appealing spot for those that love nature. It’s a nice place to sit and relax, which makes it one of the best waterfalls in Connecticut.
16. Aspetuck Falls, Washington
Set in the small village of New Preston, this 20-foot fall offers a handful of rocky cascades and interesting formations. In addition, the ample greenery surrounding it makes this fall one of the most scenic sites in Connecticut. This becomes an excellent choice for photographers looking to capture some beautiful images.
The trails leading up to these historic falls are quite nice with their gentle ups and downs along the riverside. As you make your way closer to the cascade, stop along the trail to take some photographs of the surrounding cascades. This makes for a wonderfully scenic hike that captures all different kinds of images.
Conclusion
As you can see, Connecticut has some amazing waterfalls just waiting to be explored. Whether you prefer large falls or small cascades, there is something for every waterfall enthusiast in Connecticut. I hope my list gives you some inspiration for your next outdoor adventure in this state.
