Babbling brooks, sunny meadows, and vibrant trees aren’t just the stuff of fairytales. Connecticut is home to astonishing hiking trails that rival even the most famous destinations. One of the most unsuspecting natural attractions sits in the town of Wolcott. Take a day trip to Peterson Park and embark on the Mattatuck Trail. You’re in for a magical adventure.

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At first glance, Wolcott's Peterson Park looks like any other public recreation area.
Luis O./Foursquare
If you visit on a typical Saturday, you're likely to see kids frolicking through the playground and couples enjoying a picnic under the pavilion.
Venture a little further, however, and you'll see this area is anything but ordinary.
Alyssa Kolessar/AllTrails
Let Route 69's traffic roar behind you. In this secluded area, you'll only hear the peaceful sounds of nature.
Alyssa Kolessar/AllTrails
On warm days, sunlight peeks through the trees and casts a heavenly glow on the ground below.
Suzanne Spindler Verrastro/AllTrails
Look up at the majestic hemlock trees and soak up the beauty of the moss-covered boulders. Along your route, you'll smell fragrant mountain laurel and spot sprawling ferns.

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The Mattatuck Trail spans a total of 42 miles, but you don't need to hike all day in order to catch the most breathtaking sights.
Suzanne Spindler Verrastro/AllTrails
From this entrance point, you only need to walk 5.7 miles to see something truly spectacular.
Alyssa Kolessar/AllTrails
Follow the trail past the Mad River, some peaceful roads, and a residential neighborhood.
Thomas Armistead/AllTrails
Soon, you'll reach Buttermilk Falls in Plymouth.
Chris (Dirty Bird) Perry/AllTrails
This enchanting waterfall has three different levels. Watch in awe as water spills onto the rocks below.
Exploring The Mattatuck Trail is like entering another world.
Shelly Maritzer-Lawrence/AllTrails
The easiest way to experience this whimsical hike is to take two cars and park one at the beginning and another at the end. That way, you can simply cruise back to your starting point rather than circling back. If you're looking for something less strenuous, you can also experience buttermilk falls from this .6-mile hiking trail.

Have you ever been on this whimsical hike in Connecticut? What are your favorite hiking trails in the Nutmeg State? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below! And if you’re looking for more outdoor adventures, take this Connecticut natural wonders road trip.

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123 Mad River Rd, Wolcott, CT 06716, USA