In the NW corner of Connecticut on the border of Massachusetts is the town of Norfolk. I was so pleased to find so many adventures, vistas, waterfalls and good food in one small town.
True it was a bit of a drive but it made for a wonderful day trip when done with a tour of the Fall foliage going up Route 8 and Route 44.
My favorite time to hike forests is the last couple of hours of sunlight. While it forces a deadline I love the shadows and streams of light.
The fun part of taking the hike from the CT side is that shortly you come upon a stone border marker between CT and Mass! Photo op!
The moment I heard the flow of water I went off trail and slipped down the bank towards the babbling brook and for some reason was entranced by a pool filled with pine needles and leaves with light reflecting the trees in its center. I just sat for a while appreciating all the forest had to offer.
I soon came upon the falls and I was pleased to see its height and its stature at 50 feet high with multi levels as I had never heard of these falls. It was very exciting.
Of course the photo I took doesn’t adequately reflect its height as it’s two stories so I added another with me in it to better show the size of the top tier (I’m hiding behind the dead tree)
In addition to the falls the water then meanders through the forest creating different mini enclaves and adventures. The suns shadows, the moss on the rocks and the colorful leaves added to the mystique.
I definitely recommend wearing waterproof hiking boots so you feel comfortable walking anywhere in and around all the brooks.
On the way back I took a different trail that went up a bit of a short steep climb. It was all manageable and the variations of the hike was part of the allure.
As I took the trail to the return I continued to be mesmerized by the shadows.
I was fortunate to recognize a heart shaped rock in the light of an upcoming tunnel of trees which appeared to direct my return.
Overall the hike was so much fun and what most would consider short at 1.4 miles out and back to the Norfolk lot. On top of that there is Haystack Mountain near by which would provide you with a mountain overlook to take in the Fall views and Woodcreek bar and grill for a bite to eat.
A great day trip for sure! Another note is that this was named one of the 10 best New England waterfalls in some reference articles. Below is the link to the CT website to Campbell Falls State Park. You can park on the CT or MA side with MA side being closer to the falls.
https://www.ctvisit.com/listings/campbell-falls-state-park-reserve
Pivot and Pause in New England 