Blackledge Falls (Glastonbury CT)
One of the lesser known New England waterfalls is Blackledge Falls in Glastonbury CT. It’s a beautiful spot just outside of Hartford that is worth a visit.
If you’re looking for a waterfall hike that’s close to Hartford, there’s a location in Glastonbury is a great option. The falls are located in the eastern section of town by the Hebron line and the hike to get there is only about a mile long.
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The trail to Blackledge Falls is mostly flat, making it great for families with young children. However, there are some steep and rocky sections.
History
The waterfall is a popular tourist attraction with a rich history. The falls were given their name as the ledge from which they fall from are very dark when wet. Blackledge Brook Pond, which you can see on the hike to the falls, also has a rich history. The pond includes a dam that was previously the site of an up-down sawmill which was moved to Old Sturbridge Village in Sturbridge, MA!
The waterfall has been featured in paintings and postcards over the years, and continues to be a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. There is a walking trail that leads visitors to the top of the falls, and it is definitely worth the hike. The view from the top is breathtaking! But, also be sure to check out the falls from the bottom as well!
Hiking Trails
If you are looking for a great place to hike, the surrounding area is a great place to go. There are a number of hiking trails of varying difficulty levels, so there is something for everyone.
The trails are well-marked and well-maintained, so you won’t have any trouble finding your way. You can expect to see some beautiful scenery, including waterfalls and forests, while you’re hiking.
If you’re looking for a short, easy hike to the waterfalls, I would recommend you park in the main parking lot in East Glastonbury. This paved lot is located on Route 94 in East Glastonbury close to the Hebron border. Parking is free.
To get to the falls from this parking lot, take the blue-white blaze trail. Along this trail, you’ll get a beautiful view of the Blackledge Brook Pond.
If you’re looking to see more of the park, you can continue on the blue blaze trail for a loop back to the parking lot. There are a couple unmarked trails off of the main trails as well.
The first unmarked trail off of the blue blaze trail will take you back to the blue white blaze trail back to the parking lot. The other two on your left hand side will take you into Gay City State Park.
But, if you’re looking for a longer hike, you can start at Gay City Park in Hebron. This Connecticut State park is adjacent to the park where the waterfall is located.
It is a beautiful hike through the woods from Gay City Park. The trails from Gay City Park will lead you to the blue blaze trail, which you can follow to the waterfalls! This was the hike I did my first time visiting the area! It was almost a 7 mile hike for me the way I went.
Photography
The waterfall is a popular spot for photography enthusiasts. The waterfalls are easily accessible and offer a beautiful view.
Photographers can capture the waterfall in a variety of ways, depending on the time of day and weather conditions. After a heavy rain, you’ll find three cascades that drop down 30 feet down the ledge.
During the dry season, there might only be one cascade or barely a trickle. It’s best to visit during the springtime or after a good rain to get the full experience.
While spring is the best time to visit this beautiful natural waterfall, it’s also great to visit in the winter. Photographing this waterfall in the winter is something I would definitely recommend.
The whole ledge becomes an icy wonder, which is great to photograph. If you’re going to go to this beautiful waterfall in the winter, be sure to wear micro-spikes as the trails in the area get very icy.
Wildlife
Blackledge Falls is a beautiful spot to take in the sights and sounds of nature. The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, turkeys and hawks. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful walk along the nature trail, or take a break on one of the benches located throughout the park.
The area is also a great place for a picnic. What’s better than picnicking at the bottom of a waterfall?
Facilities
The park doesn’t have much in terms of facilities. But dogs are allowed if that counts for anything!
If facilities are something that are important to you, I’d recommend parking at Gay City Park and hiking to the waterfall from there. There are picnic tables, bathrooms, and even a beach you can swim at after your hike!
Frequently Asked Questions
Before heading out on the the trails for a hike, you may have a few questions. Take a look at some of the things people usually ask as you may find your answer.
Park in the paved lot off Route 94 in East Glastonbury near the Hebron border. This parking lot is offers a short and easy hike to see the waterfalls.
Like most parks in the state, it’s open from sunrise to sunset.
The walk to the falls is a short 1 mile. It is relatively flat, with some steep and rocky parts.
Conclusion:
If you’re looking for a beautiful waterfall to visit in Connecticut, Blackledge Falls is definitely worth checking out!
