Lovers Leap State Park facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Lovers Leap State Park |
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The Housatonic River as viewed from the leap
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 Lovers Leap State Park
Location in Connecticut
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| Location | New Milford, Connecticut, United States |
| Area | 127 acres (51 ha) |
| Elevation | 518 ft (158 m) |
| Designation | Connecticut state park |
| Established | 1971 |
| Named for | The Lovers Leap cliff overlooking the Housatonic River |
| Administrator | Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection |
| Website | Lovers Leap State Park |
Lovers Leap State Park is a cool outdoor spot in New Milford, Connecticut, right by the Housatonic River. This state park covers about 127 acres, which is like 100 football fields! It sits in a beautiful gorge where the Housatonic River flows. The park is a great place for hiking and exploring historic sites. The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection takes care of it.
Contents
Park History: How Lovers Leap Began
Early Days of the Park Land
The story of Lovers Leap State Park began in 1971. A woman named Catherine Judson Hurd owned 52 acres on the eastern side of the park. She decided to give her land to the state. Her wish was for it to become a public park for everyone to enjoy.
Expanding the Park
Later, in 2007, the park grew even bigger. A company called Connecticut Light and Power sold more land to the state. This new land was on the west side of the gorge. With this addition, Lovers Leap State Park was officially opened and dedicated.
What Can You See at Lovers Leap State Park?
Historic Structures and Ruins
Lovers Leap State Park is full of interesting old things to discover. One of the most famous is the Berlin Iron Bridge. This bridge was built way back in 1895. It's so special that it's listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This means it's an important part of history!
Old Factory and Estate Remains
As you explore the park, you might also find the ruins of an old factory. This was once the Bridgeport Wood Finishing Company. You can see what's left of the buildings and imagine what it was like long ago. There are also parts of the old Hurd estate, like the "yellow cat tea house." It's covered in vines now, adding to its mysterious charm.
