New England is famous for its kaleidoscope of fall colors, and Connecticut is no exception. Abundant white oak and hickory trees create a sea of yellow and golden tones. Meanwhile, red maples add some burgundy and bright red accents. Connecticut towns look charming when framed with fall foliage, and there are many parks and forests across the state offering scenic autumnal trails.
Best Time for Fall Foliage in Connecticut
The fall colors season here starts in the last week of September and extends into early November. But peak fall foliage colors explode in October.
Connecticut Fall Foliage Driving Routes
One of the best ways to experience Connecticut's fall splendor is by exploring its scenic loops. The state boasts a network of breathtaking driving routes, each offering its unique beauty. The Scenic Fairfield Loop is a favorite, showcasing a vibrant fall color palette as it winds through Fairfield County and into the southern Litchfield Hills region. For a relaxing break along the way, stop by Candlelight Farms in New Milford or Maple Bank Farm in Roxbury to refresh and refuel.
The Connecticut River Loop starting from Middletown is shorter but equally stunning. This route follows the scenic and historic Connecticut River, crossing it via the nation's oldest swing bridge in East Haddam. Along the way, visitors can relax at picturesque spots like Devil's Hopyard State Park in East Haddam.
Where To See Fall Foliage in Connecticut
Connecticut leaf-peepers live by something other than scenic drives. Below, you can read about some of the best places to soak in fall colors in the Constitution State.
Mohawk State Forest
Mohawk State Forest, located near Cornwall, is renowned for its bogs and the stunning Mohawk Mountain Outlook, accessible via the Mattatuck Trail. At 1,683 feet (513 m), the summit offers breathtaking 360-degree views of the Catskill and Taconic Mountains as well as the Berkshire Range. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities on the park's thirty-mile trail system, including biking, running, and hiking. There is no fee for in-state registered vehicles, but out-of-state vehicles must pay a $15 fee on weekdays ($7 after 4 pm) and $22 on weekends and holidays.
Talcott Mountain State Park
Talcott Mountain State Park, located near Avon, Bloomfield, and Simsbury, offers another fantastic vantage point for leaf-peepers to enjoy the Northeast's fall beauty. The park's main attraction is Heublein Tower, standing 165 feet (50 m) tall. After a short hike to the ridge, visitors can enjoy stunning views of the Farmington River Valley from the tower. The historic Heublein Tower home and museum is accessible by walking trail only, with museum hours from Friday to Monday, 10 am to 4 pm. Note that pets, food, drink, and walking sticks are not permitted in the museum.
Macedonia Brook State Park
Macedonia Brook State Park, located in Kent, Connecticut, is a stunning fall destination featuring wooded valleys and picturesque streams. Hike the scenic Macedonia Ridge Trail to the top of Cobble Mountain for panoramic views extending to Upstate New York. The 6-mile (10-km) trail is relatively short but includes several challenging climbs. Spanning 2,300 acres, the park offers ample opportunities for hiking, fishing, and enjoying breathtaking views. Camping is available for those who want to extend their adventure, with a campsite fee required.
Peoples State Forest
Peoples State Forest, located near Barkhamsted, is renowned for its spectacular autumn foliage. Popular trails include the 7-mile (11-km) Peoples State Forest Loop and the 3-mile (5.5-km) Jessie Gerard Trail, which leads to the Chaugham Lookouts. As for activities, while the rugged terrain offers excellent winter sports, the forest's stunning waterfalls and pristine river also provide beautiful fall fishing opportunities with vibrant views of changing leaves.
Pachaug State Forest
Pachaug State Forest, the largest forest in Connecticut, is located near Voluntown on the Connecticut-Rhode Island border. It's renowned for the scenic Mt. Misery Overlook in the Chapman area, which offers beautiful views and can be reached by car or on foot. The forest features a variety of hiking trails, including the 7-mile (11-km) Quinebaug Trail that runs north to south and the Narragansett Trail, which crosses into Rhode Island's Yawgoog Scout Reservation. With opportunities for camping, hiking, backpacking, snowmobiling, motorcycling, horseback riding, hunting, and more, Pachaug State Forest offers a diverse range of outdoor adventures and natural beauty.
Pachaug State Forest has two main campgrounds and one for equestrians. Mount Misery Campground is near the highest peak and the Rhododendron Sanctuary, while Green Falls Campground offers access to Green Fall Pond for swimming and fishing. A third campground caters to horseback riders near Mount Misery Brook. All campgrounds are rustic, with no showers or RV hookups, offering natural beauty and solitude. In 2024, the campground season concludes on October 14.
Connecticut Fall Foliage Map
When planning your fall foliage adventure in Connecticut, be sure to check local fall color reports and forecasts for the latest updates. Use the Connecticut fall colors map below, which includes all the featured locations, to make your trip truly memorable.
