Few People Know You Can Visit Connecticut's Stunning State Parks For Free
Natalie Clunan
Author
We have some stunning state parks here in the Nutmeg State, but many of us may have to forgo the beauty they have to offer just because of the parking fees that were charged once upon a time. As of 2018, access to every one of Connecticut’s state parks is free to residents! Let’s look at how the launch of the Passport to Parks Program is changing the way Nutmeggers can utilize all that our magnificent state parks have to offer. Craving state parks to visit in Connecticut without the fees? No worries; we’ve got you covered.
Related Stories
Take This Unforgettable Road Trip To 4 Of Connecticut's Least-Visited State Parks
A Visit To This State Park In Connecticut Is A Great Way To Kick Off Summer
If You Didn't Know About This Swimming Hole In Connecticut, You've Been Missing Out
Are you excited about these changes to Connecticut’s state parks? Which state parks to visit in Connecticut made your list? Do you plan on visiting many more of them now that parking is free? Let us know what you think in the comments section.
Take a closer look at Connecticut’s very first state park in this previous article.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
More to Explore
State Parks to Visit in Connecticut
What are some of the best state parks in Connecticut?
Believe it or not, there are more than 135 amazing state parks and forests in the beautiful state of Connecticut; we might be a tiny state, but we’re big on fun things to do outside! Some of our favorite state parks in Connecticut include gems like Hammonasset Beach State Park, which is home to the largest beach in the entire state. It’s excellent for a long day waterside, where your only care in the world is whether or not you put on enough sunblock. Next, check out Kent Falls State Park, home to incredible hiking as well as the 250-foot-tall cascade known as Kent Falls. It’s astonishingly beautiful and well worth the effort to reach it. Then, Lover’s Leap State Park is waiting. It’s fairy-tale beautiful and features some of the best scenery in Connecticut. It’s also got a story-esque suspension bridge to explore (and take plenty of pictures of). Finally, check out Devil’s Hopyard State Park, where Chapman Falls is waiting to blow your mind. Need more inspiration? Check out this list of the best lesser-known state parks in Connecticut.
What are the most popular hiking trails in Connecticut?
With just over 1,700 hiking trails in Connecticut to choose from, how do you know where to begin? It's probably easiest to start with some of the more popular hiking trails in the state, such as the heavily trafficked delight that is Bear Mountain Trail. It’s a challenging 6.1-mile hike to the top and is rated as moderately difficult (and worth every step for the spectacular views at the top). Then, be sure to add Ragged Mountain Blue/Red Blazed Loop, at Ragged Mountain Memorial Preserve. It’s 5.6 miles long and also rated as moderate; it features epic vistas as well as incredible views of the Wassel Reservoir, which on its own is quite picturesque. After that, embark upon the Wadsworth Falls Loop, an incredible 3.6-mile easy trek through Wadsworth Falls State Park. It’s nice and simple and features some lovely waterfalls as well as a pond. Finally, you’ll love Chauncey Peak Trail at Giuffrida Park. It’s 2.2 beautiful, moderately difficult miles and features a steep (but fun) mountain climb.