Connecticut has an abundance of lovely waterfall trails but this is one of favorites for families! Ayers Gap is a stunning 80-acre nature preserve that features the gorgeous cascades of Bailey’s Ravine. Not only can you take the trail for a warm-weather waterfall, you can also discover quite the frozen treat in the wintertime! Let’s take the trail to explore more of this hidden oasis:

Don't be fooled by the countryside scene, you're only a few steps away from the Ayers Gap Nature Preserve!
Google/ M M
This beautiful oasis is located north of Franklin, alongside the Ayer Mountain Farm. The trail is perfect for anyone needing a short-but-sweet nature retreat.
Heading into the preserve you'll come into a rugged, yet stunning plot of wilderness.
Google/Sohaib Ahmad
You'll immediately feel reconnected to nature when you step into this forest! The trail is a 1.4-mile long loop with a little over 300-ft. in elevation gain. The trail is not paved and rocky at parts. However, hike-loving families will enjoy adding this one to their list!
Although this land has been preserved by the Nature Conversancy since 1988, the history of the area goes back much further.
AllTrails/Paul Donaldson
The preserve was officially established in 1988 after the Nature Conversancy purchased the land from Felice Marnicki. The area is named for its first settler, John Ayer Trapper. He lived in this area as early as 1665!
This trail is filled with rock outcroppings and fascinating formations.
Google/
Do take precautions but kids and kids-at-heart will enjoy this natural playground! The numerous exposed rock outcrops and rare plant habitat are what lead this area to be a preserved site in the first place.

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The main feature to discover along the trail are the gorgeous cascades of Bailey's Ravine.
Google/Bruce Caisse
The cascades aren't nearly as neck-craning as Roaring Brook Falls but they're quite photo-worthy nonetheless! Between the sounds of the brook, eyepopping greenery, and crisp air, Ayers Gap is a hike for the senses.
You'll want to plan a trip during the springtime for the best temperature and waterfall flow combination. However, don't hesitate to revisit this trail later in the year, too!
AllTrails/Shawna Simas
During the winter you may just stumble into a icicle wonderland! The crystalized cascades are downright jaw-dropping if you catch them during a freeze.
The waterfall is beautiful but don't forget to look out from the ravine as well.
AllTrails/Shannon Cousineau
Above the ravine, the trail follows along the ridgeline and exposes hikers to sweeping views of the valley below.
Whatever time of year you decide to peruse Ayers Gap, you'll be in for a beautiful nature escape!
Google/Eileen Dolan
Before taking that first step be sure to research this area further and, as always, practice the Leave No Trace Principles. See the work the Nature Conservancy has done to this area by visiting their website. Download a GPS-friendly map of the trail right here.

Where’s your favorite Connecticut oasis? Share your nature retreat in the comments below!

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Ayers Gap, Franklin, CT 06254, USA