Day Trips from New Haven
← All New Haven day tripsDay Trips from New Haven: Waterfalls & Swimming Holes
The best waterfalls and swimming holes within driving distance of New Haven, CT. Dramatic cascades, hidden gorges, and swimmable falls that reward the drive. Trail info, drive times, and ratings included.
10 waterfalls near New Haven
Awosting Falls
NY 12525, USA
Just 2 hrs 8 min from New Haven, rated 4.8 stars by 174 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Croton Gorge Park
Croton-On-Hudson, NY 10520
Just 1 hr 24 min from New Haven, rated 4.8 stars by 5,104 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Doane's Falls
Royalston, MA 01368
Just 2 hrs 13 min from New Haven, rated 4.8 stars by 428 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Harriman State Park
Southfields, NY 10975
Just 1 hr 26 min from New Haven, rated 4.7 stars by 4,643 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Enders State Forest
CT 06035, USA
Just 1 hr 8 min from New Haven, rated 4.7 stars by 823 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
High Falls
Hudson, NY 12534
Just 2 hrs 13 min from New Haven, rated 4.7 stars by 650 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Wahconah Falls State Park
Dalton, MA 01226
Just 2 hrs 9 min from New Haven, rated 4.7 stars by 471 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Chesterfield Gorge State Wayside (park and ride)
Spofford, NH 03462
Just 2 hrs 8 min from New Haven, rated 4.6 stars by 112 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Bash Bish Falls State Park
Mt Washington, MA 01258
Just 1 hr 59 min from New Haven, rated 4.6 stars by 1,070 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Green Falls Pond Swimming Area
Voluntown, CT 06384
Just 1 hr 24 min from New Haven, rated 4.5 stars by 172 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Frequently Asked Questions About Waterfalls Day Trips from New Haven
What are the best waterfalls near New Haven, CT?
The best waterfalls near New Haven range from roadside cascades to backcountry falls requiring a hike. Check the cards above for top-rated options with drive times and real visitor ratings.
Are there swimmable waterfalls near New Haven?
Some waterfalls near New Haven have designated swimming areas at their base. Always check current conditions and posted rules before swimming. State park waterfalls with established trails are generally the safest options.
How hard are the hikes to waterfalls near New Haven?
Difficulty varies widely. Some waterfalls near New Haven are visible from parking areas or short boardwalks. Others require moderate to strenuous hikes of 2-6 miles round trip. Check individual trail descriptions before heading out.
When is the best time to see waterfalls near New Haven?
Spring (March-May) typically offers the highest water flow after snowmelt and rain. Waterfalls are beautiful year-round though. Winter ice formations are dramatic, and fall foliage framing a waterfall is hard to beat.
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