Highest single waterfall drop in Connecticut with a roar! Great place to go after a rain to hear the roaring cascading Brook.
Roaring Brook Falls is the second tallest waterfall in Connecticut at 80ft and tallest single drop (10 feet higher than Kent Falls). It is about a mile to the first view of the falls which is quite high with the imposing ravine below- the picture does not do the height and drop justice. This is not an area to bring small children but quite impressive for the adventurous and sure-footed. Although the beginning part of the trail would be fine for them.
The main trailhead is off the end of Roaring Brook Rd with only two official parking spots but many parked along side the road.
A fun point of interest are the remains of a giant chimney while I read there was once a mill on this property, the origin of the chimney was not clear. But it’s still used by visitors!
The initial part of the hike is deceivingly easy but that quickly changes to a moderate-difficult hike to the top of the falls. There is a steep grade which I thought perhaps was the effort I read about.
Stick season appears to be a great time to view these falls which are high and deep into the gorge as the view may otherwise be blocked by the leaves.
Let me share that while I recommend stick season for the view, the hike does become steep and is angled towards the ravine with slippery leaves underfoot. However, once you accomplish the steep rocks, things level off and another view of a small waterfall appears with a lovely area to relax. I recommend this hike with a friend – not solo.
The trail does at this point connect to the Quinnipiac trail. Although on this day I stopped at this point.
Although there was apparently a mill here in the 1700s, since the 1800s it appears this was consistently a draw for people to enjoy nature and the roaring cascading falls into the deep ravine. The land was ultimately purchased by the town through the diligent efforts of Thomas Pool who is acknowledged near the start of the trail.
So much more trail to uncover! Feel free to follow my hobby photography opportunities to be present with fun facts of Lock 12 in Cheshire where I went next!
Pivot and Pause in New England 