One of Connecticut’s main attributes is its vast, untouched natural beauty. So it’s no surprise that locals love exploring it. If you’ve been looking for some cool sights and activities to do outdoors, these are a great place to start. See our favorite natural attractions below:
- Sleeping Giant
David Smith/Flickr Complete this hike for a view of the legendary sleeping giant. This long dormant volcanic ridge has its own folklore and a stone viewing tower at the top. It’s a fun piece of Connecticut’s Native American history and is perfect in almost every season. For more information click here.
- Bluff Point State Park
Brian S./Yelp What if I told you there was a beach at the end of this forest trail? Well it’s true! This peninsular oasis is puppy friendly and features a one mile hike to a hidden beach with amazing views. It’s the best of both worlds. For more information click here.
- Thimble Islands
Troy David Johnston/Flickr Not everyone realizes that Connecticut has islands, but it actually has a whole collection of them. You can take a boat tour and meander through them as you learn the stories behind their funny names. Some of them also have properties on them so you can gander at some luxe mansions as well. But the best part is the feeling of paradise. For more information click here.
- Riga Falls
Decaseconds/Flickr Who wouldn’t want to swim at the bottom waterfall? These cool refreshing waters are a great way to escape the summer heat. Reward yourself for completing the hike, even if it is super quick. You deserve it! For more swimming hole click here.
- Farmington River
Farmington River Tubing/Facebook You can rent a tube here for a three mile ride down this awesome river. There are rapids and dips but it’s mostly a relaxing ride. In fact, when it comes to natural attractions this has been a fan favorite for years. All residents must try! For more information click here.
- Tory’s Cave
Peter Hollister/Facebook Want to explore underground? This cave is a pretty great way to do it. Bring a friend and a flashlight to descend in to this geological wonder. It’s unlike anything you’ve ever seen. For more information click here.
- Hopeville Pond
CJ Oliver/Flickr Pack a picnic and enjoy a day by the water. A lake visit is an excellent idea in the summer, as long as you know how to look for toxic algae. They’re a great place to swim, fish and relax while being surrounded by nature. For our list of hidden lakes click here.
- Steep Rock Preserve
criana/Flickr Hike this massive preserve and discover the one hundred yard tunnel of trees. Walking under this canopy is nothing short of magical and due to the shade, it can be hiked even on the hottest days. Plus there’s a surprise at the end. For more information click here.
- Ocean Beach Park
Ocean Beach Park/Facebook Say hello to the whitest sand in the state. This natural locale is boosted by its man made surroundings, including a boardwalk, splash pad and water slides. You can appreciate the scenery and sand between your toes while still having access to amenities. Perfect for families! For more information click here.
These natural attractions are awesome! For more great ideas check out this list.
David Smith/Flickr
Complete this hike for a view of the legendary sleeping giant. This long dormant volcanic ridge has its own folklore and a stone viewing tower at the top. It’s a fun piece of Connecticut’s Native American history and is perfect in almost every season. For more information click here.
Brian S./Yelp
What if I told you there was a beach at the end of this forest trail? Well it’s true! This peninsular oasis is puppy friendly and features a one mile hike to a hidden beach with amazing views. It’s the best of both worlds. For more information click here.
Troy David Johnston/Flickr
Not everyone realizes that Connecticut has islands, but it actually has a whole collection of them. You can take a boat tour and meander through them as you learn the stories behind their funny names. Some of them also have properties on them so you can gander at some luxe mansions as well. But the best part is the feeling of paradise. For more information click here.
Decaseconds/Flickr
Who wouldn’t want to swim at the bottom waterfall? These cool refreshing waters are a great way to escape the summer heat. Reward yourself for completing the hike, even if it is super quick. You deserve it! For more swimming hole click here.
Farmington River Tubing/Facebook
You can rent a tube here for a three mile ride down this awesome river. There are rapids and dips but it’s mostly a relaxing ride. In fact, when it comes to natural attractions this has been a fan favorite for years. All residents must try! For more information click here.
Peter Hollister/Facebook
Want to explore underground? This cave is a pretty great way to do it. Bring a friend and a flashlight to descend in to this geological wonder. It’s unlike anything you’ve ever seen. For more information click here.
CJ Oliver/Flickr
Pack a picnic and enjoy a day by the water. A lake visit is an excellent idea in the summer, as long as you know how to look for toxic algae. They’re a great place to swim, fish and relax while being surrounded by nature. For our list of hidden lakes click here.
criana/Flickr
Hike this massive preserve and discover the one hundred yard tunnel of trees. Walking under this canopy is nothing short of magical and due to the shade, it can be hiked even on the hottest days. Plus there’s a surprise at the end. For more information click here.
Ocean Beach Park/Facebook
Say hello to the whitest sand in the state. This natural locale is boosted by its man made surroundings, including a boardwalk, splash pad and water slides. You can appreciate the scenery and sand between your toes while still having access to amenities. Perfect for families! For more information click here.
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