A drive through the Litchfield Hills was a great way to spend the day. I would have to say that this drive was my favorite out of all of the drives I have done so far. I only have one left and I do not think it will top this one. It offers everything waterfalls, covered bridges, cider mills, farm stands and wineries. What’s not to like? This part of the state is one of the first to see autumnal changes and the colors are amazing.
The peak time for this particular area of the state is forecasted to be from September 26th – October 15th.
The drive is estimated to be about 100 miles. I suggest allowing for a full day plus to explore this area. I had to revisit this area a second time to get everything in that I wanted to see, and I still feel like I missed so much. I suggest staying at one of the many quaint little inns in this area.
- Begin in Torrington
- Go north on Route 8 to Winsted then northwest on Route 44 to Canaan/Falls Village
- Turn south on Route 7 to Kent, then east on Route 341 to Warren and South on Route 45 through New Preston.
- Go east on Route 202 for about a mile then turn South on Route 47 to Washington Depot
- Turn northeast on Route 109 to East Morris, then north on Route 63 to Litchfield.
- Head east on Route 118 for a few miles then north on Route 8 to finish up the journey to Torrington
Points of Interest:
The West Cornwall Covered Bridge is quite lovely especially this time of year. When I went it was the end of September. There were still a couple of sunflowers in full bloom and I got some cool pictures of the bridge and the flowers. There is also a little café called The Wandering Moose Cafe right in the area; where you can sit outside grab a bite to eat or an ice cream and overlook the scenic area. The bridge is open to traffic so you will find it difficult to cross I would not advise it; because there was no sidewalk or separate walkway. There are also some benches that along the bridge where you can sit, read, and relax.
My next stop was Kent Falls, State Park. This place is absolutely beautiful. There are giant cascading falls and a magnificent trail leading up to the top of them (lots of stairs). This park was dog-friendly as long as you keep your pooch on a leash. I took CT with me and he absolutely loved it. He wanted to jump right into the water and I finally let him as we were leaving. There is a covered bridge that you can walk across leading up to the falls. Talk about photo opportunities here there are so many. They also have plenty of picnic tables around to enjoy a picnic lunch and if the tables are full you can always grab a great seat on the well-maintained grounds overlooking the falls. (TIP: try to visit after there has been a lot of rain because the falls will be in full force)
Sharon Audubon Center I loved this place! It has a small fee of $3 dollars but totally worth it I’d pay more than triple that to come here. The property is gorgeous and there are more than 11 miles and tons of different trails for you walk. I walked the fern trail which wasn’t that long because I was a little short on time. I recommend spending a significant amount of time here because there is plenty to see and do. There’s a nature store, a learning center, trails, a herb garden, a bird rehab center. (TIP: check ahead and see if they are offering a nature walk on the day your visiting it is well worth it)
The last place I went to was Campbell Falls State Park in Norfolk. It was a little out of the way from the foliage drive but it makes a great stop. The falls are wonderful I do prefer Kent Falls, but these were more off the beaten path. There is a stone bridge too which was neat to take pictures from. I can see this place being great in the summertime and swimming next to the falls; which is very doable. There is also a stone maker that marks where the CT and MA line is. (The falls are really in Mass.) Word of warning there are no facilities here so I would suggest hitting up the bathroom before visiting. (Hike to the falls is about 3/4 of a mile)
localtouristy.com 