Best time to travel to Connecticut

Kent Falls State Park in Connecticut

Enjoy the beauty of several hiking trails up and around the magnificent gush of water

Best time: all year round (best in March–October)

Kent Falls State Park
Kent Falls State Park
Kent Falls State Park
Kent Falls State Park
Kent Falls State Park
Kent Falls
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Located 5 mi (8 km) north of Kent on Route 7, Kent Falls State Park is home to one of the most visited waterfalls in Connecticut. Although the falls remain the park's main attraction, this site is also a great place to throw a frisbee, organize a picnic, or just take in some fresh air.

Here, you can find a small trail loop that goes up the Kent Falls, over into the forest, and back to the main parking lot. The better half of the falls is not visible from the road, so you'll have to hike up a short steep trail loop to see it in all its glory. The path and wooden lookouts are frequently maintained, and that allows visitors to climb right up alongside the falls all the way to the top for fantastic postcard views of the water. The trail from the start and to the top is about a 0.25 mile (0.4 km), and the vertical height of the falls is about 150-200 ft (45.7-61 m).

Generally, you can visit Kent State Park all year round. The best time for a visit runs from March to October when the weather is more comfy for a hike and nature along the way is lush. The flow in the cascade waterfall is typically heaviest in the spring months when the winter snow is melting. Fall is another excellent season at Kent State Park for leaf-peeping. Summers tend to get busy here, and when the parking lot reaches maximum capacity, the park closes. The park reopens for visits when the lot has at least 10 available spots.

Practical info

When is the best time to visit Kent Falls State Park in Connecticut?

The park is open year-round; however, the best time to visit Kent Falls State Park is between March and October. The forest is full of life and ideal for hiking, whereas the spring months are suitable for viewing the heaviest waterfall flows occasioned by snow melting. The fall, on the other hand, offers great leaf-peeping opportunities, while winter is also perfect, although visitors can only hike on the flat areas for safety reasons due to possible icy and slippery conditions. Show more

Where is Kent Falls State Park located in Connecticut?

Located 5 miles north of Kent on Route 7, Kent Falls State Park is situated in the Litchfield Hills, an area characterized by several picturesque waterfalls, scenic drives, and walking trails within quaint villages. Visitors traveling along the route can easily access the park, making it a popular attraction site. Show more

How long does it take to hike the trail loop at Kent Falls State Park?

The trail loop at Kent Falls State Park covers about 0.25 miles. Generally, it can take approximately 30-45 minutes to complete, accounting for differences in fitness level, age, and rest periods taken. Visitors, especially those using the steep trail loop up Kent Falls, should allocate more time to explore the waterfall fully and admire the scenic views of the park. Show more

What is the vertical height of the Kent Falls, and is it visible from the road?

The Kent Falls waterfall at Kent Falls State Park stands about 150 to 200 feet tall. While not entirely visible from the roadside, visitors can hike up a short steep trail loop to access the other side of the falls for better panoramic views. The park management ensures that the trail and wooden lookouts are properly maintained for safe and easier access, providing visitors with an unforgettable experience. Show more

Can I visit Kent Falls State Park in winter, and what are the typical activities visitors can do during that period?

Kent Falls State Park is accessible throughout winter, subject to visitors adhering to the park regulations, safety precautions, and limitations. Everything aside from flat areas is off-limits to visitors. Typical activities during winter include cross-country skiing, winter hiking, and snowshoeing. Visitors tend to enjoy a peaceful atmosphere away from the usual summer crowds with clear views of the waterfall and quiet walks through a winter wonderland. Show more

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Last updated: by Dari Vasiljeva