Kent Falls State Park
Connecticut’s Tallest Waterfall
Kent Falls tumbles 250 feet over a quarter-mile cascade, making it Connecticut’s most impressive waterfall. A covered bridge marks the entrance to this Litchfield Hills gem.
Trails
| Trail | Details |
|---|---|
| Falls Steps Trail | 0.25 mi steep climb with multiple viewpoints |
| North Ridge Trail | Alternative route to top of falls |
| ADA Path | Paved access to base viewing area |
Best Time to Visit
Spring (snowmelt) and after rainstorms produce the most dramatic flow. Fall foliage season is extremely popular.
Park Rules
- No swimming or wading in the falls
- No alcohol on park grounds
- No drones
- Pets welcome on leash
⚠️ Parking fills fast on weekends. The park closes when full and reopens only when 10 spaces clear.
Can I swim in the waterfall?
No. Swimming and wading are prohibited at Kent Falls for safety reasons.
Things to Do
Connecticut’s compact state park system packs diverse experiences into a small state — from Long Island Sound beaches and tidal marshes to Appalachian ridgeline trails, glacial lakes, and cascading waterfalls. Activities include swimming at supervised lake and ocean beaches, hiking along the Blue-Blazed Trail system that connects many state parks, fishing in stocked trout streams and coastal waters, camping in forested settings, biking rail-trails and park roads, nature study at wildlife management areas, rock climbing at Ragged Mountain, kayaking coastal estuaries, and exploring historic sites from Revolutionary War battlefields to industrial-era heritage.
Best Time to Visit
Connecticut parks are at their best from May through October. Summer (June–August) brings peak beach season along Long Island Sound and warm lake swimming inland. Spring delivers azalea and mountain laurel blooms (Connecticut’s state flower), plus rushing waterfalls. Fall foliage in Connecticut peaks mid-to-late October and can be spectacular along ridgeline parks like Sleeping Giant and Talcott Mountain. Winter offers cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and peaceful forest hiking when trails are less crowded. All Connecticut state parks are free for pedestrians year-round; vehicle parking fees ($10–$22 for non-residents) apply at beaches from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Visitor Tips
Connecticut state parks are free for walk-in visitors year-round. Vehicle parking fees ($10 residents / $15–$22 non-residents) apply at beach parks during summer season (Memorial Day through Labor Day). Inland parks are typically free year-round. Camping is available at select parks — reservations through ReserveAmerica. Connecticut’s compact size means most parks are within a 90-minute drive of any point in the state, making day trips easy. Dogs are allowed on leash but prohibited at swimming areas.
Explore More Connecticut State Parks
Kent Falls State Park is one of many outstanding state parks in Connecticut. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in Connecticut guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
