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Directions:
General Description: 285 acre Wadsworth Falls State Park, bordered by the Coginchaug River along it's western edge, is noted for it's beautiful waterfalls and laurel groves. A well-marked and maintained multi-use trail system connects the falls with the main swimming/picnicking area and other scenic sections of the park. Accessible from a stone bridge, the trails pass through densely wooded areas, the Little Falls and several meandering streams. During your mountain bike ride, take the time for a break and cool off in the mist of Wadsworth Falls. The 10-foot waterfall is located on the Coginchaug River in the southwest corner of the park. There is a level walk from the parking area on Cherry Hill Road, off Route 157, to the brink of the falls.
The Trails: This is a great place for family rides, beginners and those just out for a romantic or scenic, relaxing cruise on mostly doubletrack trails. The easier trails are located in the northern half of the park and wind through great hemlocks, noble oaks, beech and birch trees. For intermediate and advanced riders, while there isn't much singletrack, the Laurel Brook Trail and the Little Falls Trail will whet your appetite. The Little Falls Trail is the more challenging of the two with steep switchbacks, a tough climb and creek crossing. There are various loops and figure 8's you can do around the perimeter of the park (click on the trail map link above for a general idea). One challenging 4 mile loop ride follows the Laurel Brook Trail, White Birch Trail, Cedar Loop Trail and Main Trail to the railroad tracks. From there you can catch a trail that travels past the spectacular Wadsworth Falls. After biking the varied trails in the park, head for the “swimming pool”, a saucer-shaped basin hollowed out of the level plain. It is paved with a soil cement, preventing water from leaching out. The cool water is pumped from a series of inter-connected wells near the river. Nozzles in the sides shoot water into the pool, creating a circulating effect. Jacuzzi anyone? Park facilities include restrooms with flush toilets and drinking water.
Historical Note: The park, named after Col. Clarence Wadsworth (1871-1941), a noted scholar whose passion for forestry and conservation led to a forty-year effort to preserve the natural beauty of Wadsworth Falls. He established the Rockfall Foundation in 1935, a non-profit organization whose mission is to administer, preserve and maintain the natural beauty of the park for the use and enjoyment of the public. 267 acres of land, once part of the Wadsworth estate, were given to the State in 1942. During your ride, take note of the distinctive stone arched bridges that the colonel erected over Laurel Brook, as well as foundations of houses and barns that once stood on the land.
For more information: Wadsworth Falls State Park: Phone: (860) 663-2030
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Family / Romantic
Directions & description
