Connecticut
Nature|Waterfalls

Complete With A Lovely Cascade, Riga Falls Is A Little-Known Connecticut Swimming Hole You’ll Love

Discover the enchanting Riga Falls swimming hole in Mt. Riga State Park, Connecticut, perfect for a refreshing and scenic adventure.

Published Jul 1, 2020

Written by 

Elisa Regulski

Splash refreshing water on your face and feel the sun warm your skin. When you visit this little-known Connecticut swimming hole, you'll feel like you're in your own little corner of the world. The sound of the rushing cascade will wash away your worries, and the verdant trees will fill your heart with happiness. Pay a visit to Riga Falls in Salisbury. You'll love every second of this incredible adventure.

Tucked inside the endlessly scenic Mt. Riga State Park sits an enchanting little swimming hole you're certain to fall in love with.

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John Roy/AllTrails

The entire 276-acre state park is full of astonishing sights and peaceful hiking trails.

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Riga Falls may be shallow, but it's packed with otherworldly beauty.

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Decaseconds/Flickr

Immerse yourself in the cool waters and listen to the tranquil sounds of nature.

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Decaseconds/Flickr

The impressive waterfall is nothing short of magical.

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Andrea Perretti/AllTrails

Adventurous souls enjoy climbing the surrounding rocks.

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Decaseconds/Flickr

If you want to explore the area, be careful. The rocks are known to become slippery!

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This is a view you could never grow tired of.

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Edward Murphy/Google Images

Of course, this magnificent waterfall swimming hole is just the beginning of what Mt. Riga State Park has to offer.

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Tom Day/AllTrails

After your refreshing swim, why not hike up Bear Mountain or Mount Frissell? The panoramic views from the top of these mountains will fill you with awe.

To learn more about Mt. Riga State Park, visit the Connecticut DEEP website here.

Have you ever been to this little-known Connecticut swimming hole? If so, we want to hear all about your experience! Share your thoughts with us in the comments below. And if you know another must-visit outdoor destination in The Nutmeg State, nominate it for a chance to be featured.

Looking for more refreshing fun? Check out our list of the best waterfall swimming holes in Connecticut.

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Nature|Waterfalls

The Magnificent Natural Wonder In Connecticut That’s Located Barely A Quarter Mile From The Parking Lot

Find a quick and easy waterfall hike in Granby, CT at the McLean Game Refuge's Westledge Cascades Trail, which is barely over a quarter mile.

Published Aug 29, 2024

Written by 

Lisa Sammons

Here at Only In Connecticut, we love a good lengthy all-day trek. We've got tons of amazing trails in the Nutmeg State, and we're firm believers that everyone should work their way up to exploring them all! There's so many options for those who want to enjoy long hikes that span 10 miles or more. With that being said, shorter hikes are important to feature, too, and they can certainly be just as fun. We realize that not everybody is capable of a multi-mile hike, and sometimes it feels good to just try something easy. If you're looking for a short easy trail in Granby, CT that still boasts some amazing views, we think you'll love the Westledge Cascades Trail in the McLean Game Refuge. Check it out:

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The McLean Game Refuge is a 4,400-acre nature preserve in Granby with 20 miles of hiking trails to enjoy. It's a great spot for birdwatching and immersing yourself in nature.

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Lisa Washko/AllTrails

There are plenty of longer trails here, but the Westledge Cascades Trail measures barely over a quarter mile and is perfect for anyone seeking a short adventure.

Hiking off-trail is strictly prohibited here, so make sure that you stay on the blazed trails at all times.

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Mark Morrell/AllTrails

You'll also want to note that dogs are only allowed on certain trails here. You can check out the full list of rules at the McLean Game Refuge website.

All kinds of critters live in this beautiful preserve, and you never know what sort of wildlife you'll spot, so keep your eyes peeled.

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The real gem of the Westledge Trail, though, is the adorable little waterfall along the route.

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This is such a peaceful wooded area that's got a ton of shade, so the quick trail won't even subject you to the hot sun in summertime.

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Addie Aubin/AllTrails

Next time you're looking for an easy waterfall hike near Granby, CT, the McLean Game Refuge is the perfect place.

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For more information about this great short trail in Granby, CT, check out our friends at AllTrails.

Are you a big fan of hiking in Connecticut, or trying to get out and explore our great state more frequently? Enjoy a free trial of AllTrails+. It's got tons of great benefits like turn-by-turn directions and wrong-turn alerts.

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Nature|Waterfalls

The Zoar Trail Is One Of The Best Waterfall Hikes In Connecticut

Published Jul 8, 2024

Written by 

Lisa Sammons

There are so many waterfalls in Connecticut that it can be tough to keep up with them all. If you've got a hankering for a great hike with a cascade or two, you won't have much difficulty finding one, no matter where you are in the state. One of our favorite hiking trails with a waterfall in Connecticut is the Zoar Trail near Monroe, CT. It's tucked away in the wild and rugged Paugussett State Forest, and at 6.3 miles in length with quite a bit of elevation gain, it's moderately challenging and might not be the best option for inexperienced or out-of-shape hikers. However, the views are definitely worth the effort, and you'll even get to enjoy a little waterfall along the route! Check it out:

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You'll start the route along the shore of Lake Zoar, right across the water from Kettletown State Park.

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The water views are lovely, but keep in mind that in the warm months, the shade and water will bring quite a bit of bugs. Don't forget your insect repellent!

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The trail passes right by the lovely little Pryden Brook Falls, a lengthy waterfall featuring a plunge followed by 40 feet of cascading falls.

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Rich Infante/AllTrails

If you explore the entirety of the 6.3-mile trail, it will take about three hours.

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There are a few rocky scrambles when you get to the forested portion of the trail, and in all, it's considered moderately difficult.

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Daniel Okech/AllTrails

Once you get deep into the forest, it'll feel like you entered another world! This is such a pretty trail that's definitely worthy of adventure.

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Greg Johnson/AllTrails

For more information about this great waterfall trail near Monroe, CT, check out our friends at AllTrails.

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Are you a big fan of hiking in Connecticut? Consider a free trial of AllTrails+. It's got great benefits like downloadable trail maps, wrong-turn alerts, and more.

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