Campbell Falls and Haystack Mountain

Sometimes it’s hard to muster up the energy or time for a lengthy trek. Campbell Falls State Park, which sits on the Massachusetts and Connecticut border in Norfolk, is an ideal choice for those who want to take advantage of a good weather day with a brief but satisfying trip.

To reach Campbell Falls Park, travel on Route 44 through Norfolk, then take Route 272 toward Massachusetts. Pass Haystack Mountain and Wood Creek and continue north until you spot Campbell Falls Road. There are two trails that lead to the falls, one on the Connecticut side and one on the Massachusetts side of the park.

The blue-blazed Youth Conservation Corps Trail marks the Connecticut entrance. The trail provides a very quick hike through Hemlock forests, eventually leading you to the white-blazed ravine trail that is on the Massachusetts side of the park. Continue on the white-blazed trail for a brief and steep descent to the falls.

Whether you start at the Connecticut or Massachusetts entrance, you can reach the falls and nearby stream in just a few minutes. Even though the hike down to the waterfall requires nearly no time at all, you will want to spend some time exploring the falls and surrounding rock formations.

The cooling spray and rich, earthy scent of the forest provide a subtle background for the scenic beauty of the falls themselves.

The brevity of the trail leading to the falls makes it perfect for quick day trips, while the falls make an ideal spot for picnicking and photos.

If you are left hungry for more trails and scenic outlooks, then on the way home make a quick trip to Haystack Mountain State Park, home of Battell Tower. Take the entrance road past the small pond and picnicking areas to the upper parking lot. An uphill climb along the yellow-blazed trail will bring you to the summit and Battell Tower.

The view from inside the tower is absolutely remarkable, with visible peaks stretching through Connecticut, Massachusetts and New York. I recommended that you bring a camera and perhaps a pair of binoculars.

Campbell Falls Park and Haystack Mountain provide quick hikes and gorgeous scenic landmarks with minimal difficulty. The proximity of both parks makes it an idyllic pairing for a day trip of local hiking trails.

The Connecticut Forest and Park Association has a Web site, ctwoodlands.org.

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