3 Best Hiking Trails in Waterbury, CT

“Black Rock State Park is a well-known hiking trail in Watertown. Black Rock State Park is 7.7 miles from downtown Waterbury. Seventy-eight sites in wooded and field settings are available. The park has facilities available, bathrooms & picnic tables. The trail offers a scenic view of the Naugatuck Valley, highlighting Black Rock. Black Rock offers lovely swimming, hiking, breathtaking views, and Indian legends, all while nestled in the gorgeous rolling hills of the Western Highlands. The total length of the area of 444 acres offers a variety of outdoor activities. Steed, wooded ledges covered with pine, hemlock, and oak trees provide the setting for Black Rock Pond. During the trail, visitors can enjoy the scenery of the Western Highlands while hiking the blue-blazed Mattatuck Trail.

UNIQUE FACTS:
• Picnic Tables Available
• Has Barbecue Grill
• Dogs Allowed.”

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“Southford Falls State Park is a well-maintained and marked hiking destination in Southbury, CT. Located just 11.6 miles and 16 minutes from Waterbury, this park offers a total trail length of 1.7 miles, making it generally considered an easy route to traverse. The trail features an elevation gain of 252 feet and follows a loop type. Visitors can expect to spend around 45 minutes completing the trail. The park is renowned for its breathtaking waterfalls along the Eight Mile River near the northwest corner. Adjacent to the falls is the Larkin Bridle Trail. Covering 169 acres, Southford Falls State Park was established in 1932, offering beautiful scenery with several designated eating areas. Additionally, the park features many walking trails equipped with picnic tables and fire pits for cooking, enhancing the overall visitor experience.

UNIQUE FACTS:
• Shelters Available For Picnic
• Dog Friendly Park
• Well Marked Trails.”

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“Kettletown State Park is a well-maintained hiking trail in Southbury, CT. Kettletown State Park is 10.8 miles from downtown to Waterbury. This 605-acre park, of which 324 are in Southbury, borders approx. Two miles of Lake Zoar shoreline. The park has 63 campsites available as well as six miles of maintained hiking trails that offer panoramic overlooks high above Lake Zoar. In the park, visitors can find a variety of terrain, flora, and fauna along its length. The park offers 56 sites in both open and wooded settings. Youth Group Camping is available. Kettletown State Park is a popular recreation site thanks to its great campground, covered picnic area, and views of scenic Lake Zoar on the Housatonic Rivers.

UNIQUE FACTS:
• Restroom Facilities
• Picnic Tables Available
• Has Barbecue Grill.”

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