Save
You must be signed in to save park lists.
Your Park Lists
add New List
Add Photo
You must be signed in to add photos.
state route ranger badge
Connecticut
5

Connecticut State Parks

responsive menu icon
USA Parks
Connecticut
Litchfield Hills Region
Wyantenock State Forest
Robin © stateparks.com
Cool Swim © stateparks.com
Search
Availability
Calendars
Availability Search
WYANTENOCK STATE FOREST
WYANTENOCK STATE FOREST
Wyantenock State Forest is one of the best-kept secrets of Litchfield County! The forest consists of over 4,000 acres scattered among nine different parcels of land, spread throughout the towns of Warren, Kent and Cornwall.

Many of these blocks of forest have little or no public access and Wyantenock has virtually no ?developed? recreation areas for public use. As such, Wyantenock remains one of Connecticut?s least visited state forests. It is a rugged, remote forest that enhances the quality of life in Litchfield County by providing open space, wildlife habitat, opportunities for the production of commercial forest products, and watershed protection. The forest was originally considered part of Mohawk State Forest when the first land was acquired in 1925. As land was added, Wyantenock received its own designation.

History of the Area
Wyantenock State Forest is located in Litchfield County, Connecticut. The forest occupies an area of about 4,600 acres in the towns of Warren and Kent. It is primarily known for its beautiful landscapes, rugged terrain, and diverse mix of flora and fauna.

The history of Wyantenock State Forest dates back to the early 20th century. In the 1910s, a group of concerned citizens and conservationists in Connecticut recognized the need to protect the state's natural resources from exploitation and degradation. Their efforts led to the establishment of the Connecticut State Park Commission in 1917, which aimed to acquire and preserve land for public use.

Around the same time, Frederick S. Moseley, a prominent businessman and philanthropist, purchased large tracts of land in the region. In 1923, he generously donated approximately 2,000 acres of his land to the State of Connecticut for the creation of Wyantenock State Forest. This generous gift helped ensure the preservation of a significant portion of the forested landscape and allowed for the establishment of recreational opportunities and public access to the area.

In the years that followed, the Connecticut State Park Commission and later the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) acquired additional lands adjacent to Wyantenock State Forest, gradually expanding its size and protecting additional natural resources. The forest's terrain, characterized by rugged hills, steep valleys, and a network of streams, made it an attractive location for outdoor recreation activities, including hiking, fishing, camping, and hunting.

Wyantenock State Forest remains a cherished natural resource in Connecticut. It provides opportunities for residents and visitors to immerse themselves in nature and offers various recreational activities throughout the year. The forest continues to be managed by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP), with the primary objective of preserving its ecological integrity while allowing for compatible recreational uses.
Passes
Connecticut has made state parks, forests, trails, historic sites and beaches more accessible to our residents so they can enjoy the many attractions and beauty they offer. Under the Passport to the Parks program, parking fees are now eliminated at Connecticut State Parks for those with Connecticut registered vehicles. You can view the CONNECTICUT PASSPORT TO THE PARKS web page to learn more.
Nearby Vacation Rentals
Search for a vacation rental



Trails
1. Blue Trail: This is a moderate difficulty trail that stretches for about 4 miles, offering hikers beautiful views of the forest and its diverse wildlife.

2. Yellow Trail: A relatively easy hike suitable for beginners or families with children; it's approximately 3 miles long featuring gentle slopes and scenic spots perfect for picnics.

3. Red Loop Trail: An intermediate level looped path covering around 5 miles through dense woods, providing opportunities to spot various bird species along the way.

4. Green Pathway: Known as one of the most challenging trails in Wyantenock State Forest due to steep inclines over rocky terrain across roughly six-mile stretch; recommended only for experienced hikers who are physically fit.

5. White Connector Trails: These short paths connect different main trails together allowing more customized hiking routes depending on individual preferences regarding distance and difficulty levels.

6. Orange Overlook Route: It's an offshoot from blue trail leading towards a stunning overlook point which offers panoramic view of surrounding landscape - ideal place to rest or take photographs during your journey.

7. Purple Wildlife Track: As name suggests, this pathway takes you closer into habitats where deer , foxes etc can be spotted ; however caution must always be maintained not disturb these creatures.

8. Brown River Walks: Alongside flowing streams within state park, there exist several small walking tracks ( brown marked ) giving visitors chance enjoy tranquil sound water amidst lush greenery all round them.

9. Black Rock Climbing Routes: For those seeking some adventure beyond regular hikes, black:marked climbing areas provide thrilling experience scaling natural rock formations under guidance trained professionals available onsite upon prior booking arrangements made via official website / contact number provided by Connecticut Department Of Energy & Environmental Protection ( DEEP ).

Visitor Comments, Memories and Reviews
September 26 a good loop
park review stars; one to five OK for an hour walk in the woods, but not very exciting.
August 8 quiet
park review stars; one to five logging or fire roads, heavily wooded, good for a run because you get the big hills over with in the very beginning. Might be fun to cross country ski.
July 20 Boring
park review stars; one to five Nothing to do or see here, really. Just some trails for loggers and water company trucks. A couple of swamps.
write a review
Share On

Area Campgrounds
Cozy Hills Campground
1311 Route 202 Bantam Road
Bantam, CT
860-567-2119
Hemlock Hill Camp Resort
118 Hemlock Hill Road
Litchfield, CT
860-567-2267

Directions
1. Start by heading onto CT:4 W from Main St.
2. Continue on CT:4 W for approximately 8 miles until you reach the town of Cornwall Bridge.
3. In Cornwall Bridge, turn left onto Kent Rd/CT:7 S and continue driving south for about 5 miles.
4. Take a slight right onto River Rd and drive for another mile or so until you see signs indicating the entrance to Wyantenock State Forest on your left.

state route ranger badge
Connecticut
5

Connecticut State Parks

X