Connecticut National Parks
From Revolutionary history to untamed, scenic nature, Connecticut's National Parks will inspire you. Come #FindYourPark in Connecticut.
Connecticut National Parks
Connecticut
Table of Contents
2 National Parks in Connecticut
Other NPS-Affiliated Sites in Connecticut
Coltsville National Historical Park
Eightmile National Wild and Scenic River
Farmington National Wild and Scenic River
New England National Scenic Trail
Salmon Brook Wild and Scenic River
The Last Green Valley National Heritage Corridor
Upper Housatonic Valley National Heritage Area
Washington-Rochambeau Revolutionary Route National Historic Trail
Wood-Pawcatuck Watershed Wild and Scenic Rivers
Appalachian National Scenic Trail - Maine to Georgia - CT, GA, MA, MD, ME, NC, NH, NJ, NY, PA, TN, VA, VT, WV
One of America's most famous trails, the Appalachian National Scenic Trail stretches an incredible 2,180 miles and runs nearly the entire length of the eastern United States from Maine to Georgia. The trail was constructed by private citizens and completed in 1937, and today is maintained by several federal and state agencies as well as volunteer groups.
Coltsville National Historical Park
Coltsville National Historical Park is closely tied to the industrial revolution and the legacy of Samuel Colt, a pioneering inventor and industrialist. The park, designated in 2014, encompasses the former Colt Armory complex which played a pivotal role in the development of precision manufacturing and the production of firearms in the 19th century. Samuel Colt's revolutionary invention, the Colt revolver, changed the landscape of American industry and contributed to the expansion of the American West.
Guided tours of the Colt Armory complex are available and the Park's Visitor Center features exhibits that tell the story of Samuel Colt's life and work, highlighting his contributions to engineering, manufacturing, and the American West. Additionally, visitors can learn about the role of Colt firearms in the Civil War and their influence on American society during the 19th century.
Eightmile National Wild and Scenic River
The Eightmile River was designated as a Wild & Scenic watershed in 2008 and protects over 150 streams in rivers in the area. It also protects around 1,000 acres of land and provides protection to native species of plants and animals as well as recreational opportunities.
Farmington National Wild and Scenic River
The Lower Farmington River and Salmon Brook received a National Wild & Scenic Rivers designation in 2019 - recognized for its unique geology, remarkable biological diversity, and recreation.
New England National Scenic Trail - MA, CT
The New England National Scenic Trial stretches for 215 miles from Long Island Sound up through Connecticut and into Massachusetts to the New Hampshire border. For more information including maps and suggested hikes, click here.
The Last Green Valley National Heritage Corridor - CT, MA
Designated by Congress in 1994, the The Last Green Valley National Heritage Corridor is an area of cultural, historical and natural significance that encompasses parts of rural Massachusetts and Connecticut. It is still 77% forest and farmland, and the only swath of dark night sky in the coastal sprawl between Boston and Washington DC.
Click here for more information about the Last Green Valley National Heritage Corridor.
Salmon Brook Wild and Scenic River
Along with the Lower Farmington River, Salmon Brook received a National Wild & Scenic Rivers designation in 2019 - recognized for its unique geology, remarkable biological diversity, and recreation.
Upper Housatonic Valley National Heritage Area - CT, MA
The Upper Housatonic Valley National Heritage Area was designated in 2006 for its crucial role in the development of New England, from its colonial past to its industrial era and beyond. The Upper Housatonic Valley is steeped in history, with its picturesque towns, scenic landscapes, and vibrant communities reflecting the cultural heritage of the region. The area is known for its commitment to preserving and celebrating its rich history, making it a fascinating destination for visitors interested in New England's cultural and natural legacy.
The heritage area offers a series of heritage trails, each highlighting specific themes and historical elements. These trails lead visitors to sites of significance, such as historic buildings, museums, and landscapes that tell the story of the Upper Housatonic Valley's history, from its indigenous roots to its industrial past. The region is also home to numerous cultural events, festivals, and historical reenactments.
Washington-Rochambeau National Historic Trail - MA, RI, CT, NY, NJ, PA, DE, MD, VA, DC
The Washington-Rochambeau National Historic Trail denotes one of the most successful troop movements in the Revolutionary War - one that led to victory over the British in Yorktown, Virginia and eventually led to America's independence. General Rochambeau of France combined his forces with General Washington's moving 680 miles over land and water to secure victory for the allies.
The Washington-Rochambeau National Historic Trail was formally recognized by Congress and singed into law by President Obama in 2009. The trail spans Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia and what is now Washington D.C. It celebrates America's alliance with the French during our fight for independence and also highlights the historical and military significance that proved to be a pivotal moment in American history.
Weir Farm National Historic Site
Julian Alden Weir popularized American Impressionist painting and in 1882, Weir purchased the farm as his summer home which the family still owns today. Weir Farm National Historic Site is the only National Park dedicated solely to American Impressionism. The farm is home to many of Weir's works as well as works from his contemporaries.
Visitors can tour the Weir House, Weir Studio, Young Studio and Painting Sites as well as borrow some free art supplies to try their hand painting their own masterpiece. Guests can also enjoy the gardens or a hike around the property to the pond. More serious artists can even apply for Artist-in-Residence status to live and work at the Farm. Weir Farm National Historic site is located in southwest Connecticut at 735 Nod Hill Road, Wilton, CT 06897.
Wood-Pawcatuck Watershed Wild and Scenic Rivers
In 2019, the Wood-Pawcatuck Watershed Wild and Scenic Rivers were officially designated and is the longest Wild and Scenic river system in New England with 110 total miles. The river is particularly popular for flat-water paddling where no experience is required to enjoy the water.