Kent Falls State Park facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Kent Falls State Park |
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![]() A lower section of Kent Falls from
above the first waterfall |
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Location | Kent, Connecticut, United States | ||||||||||||||||
Area | 307 acres (124 ha) | ||||||||||||||||
Elevation | 794 ft (242 m) | ||||||||||||||||
Designation | Connecticut state park | ||||||||||||||||
Established | 1919 | ||||||||||||||||
Administrator | Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection | ||||||||||||||||
Website | Kent Falls State Park | ||||||||||||||||
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Kent Falls State Park is a super cool place to visit in Kent, Connecticut. It's located in the beautiful Litchfield Hills area. This state park is famous for its amazing waterfalls, known as Kent Falls.
The waterfalls are on Falls Brook, which flows into the Housatonic River. The water drops about 250 feet (76 m) (that's like a 25-story building!) in less than a quarter mile. The biggest waterfall drops over 70 feet (21 m) into a calm pool. Then, the water continues over several smaller falls. It's a truly beautiful sight!
Park History
The area around Kent Falls has a long history. Native Americans used to call the falls Scatacook. They likely used this spot for fishing and camping. Later, during colonial times, mills were built along the brook.
Kent Falls became a state park in 1919. This happened when the White Memorial Foundation gave about 200 acres (81 ha) of land to the state. In the 1930s, workers from the Civil Works Administration helped build up the park.
In the 1970s, the Youth Conservation Corps of America helped rebuild the trails. More recently, in 2006, new viewing platforms were added. These platforms let visitors get a great view of the falls. A special area with flat flagstone rocks was also made at the bottom. This spot lets people safely get close to a calm wading pool.
Things to Do at Kent Falls
Kent Falls State Park is a great place for outdoor fun. There's a cool replica of a covered bridge that lets you cross the brook. This bridge also gives you access to the waterfall trails.
Besides enjoying the amazing scenery, you can go hiking on the trails. It's a perfect spot for a picnic with friends or family. You can also try fishing in the brook. It's a wonderful place to spend a day enjoying nature!