2025's 10 Most Scenic Connecticut Towns
In Connecticut, the stunning natural landscapes of small towns sometimes feel too perfect to be real. The Constitution State's most scenic destinations have become known as havens for anyone yearning for beauty in its purest, least commercial form. Whether you’re seeking an adventurous trek that ends with breathtaking panoramic views, a walk through a dense protected forest, or a serene place to sit and watch the glistening water of a pristine river or lake, there is a small town in Connecticut that will offer the nature experience you crave most.
Kent
Within the rolling Litchfield Hills, part of the southern Berkshires, lies Kent, a charming small town brimming with a variety of natural landmarks. Visitors and residents alike are stunned by Kent’s lush forests, sweeping ridgelines, and fiery seasonal autumn colors. In the 2,300-acre Macedonia Brook State Park, hiking up Cobble Mountain will lead you to breathtaking panoramic views of the Catskills, as well as the Taconic Mountains. If a waterfall is on your list of things to see, Kent Falls State Park features a dramatic 250‑foot waterfall with a winding stone stair trail that visitors can climb. The Housatonic River is another great place to take in the beauty of Kent. This tranquil river flows through the valley, offering a serene setting for kayaking and fishing.
Colebrook
Both residents of the town and visitors from afar have described Colebrook as a quietly scenic enclave of protected forestland, serene water, and wooded hills. Areas deemed as “Forever Wild”, such as the Sandy Brook Natural Area Preserve and Kitchel Wilderness Preserve, are perfect for hiking among undisturbed wildlife and woodlands. Next to a stunning hardwood-evergreen forest, the Colebrook River Lake, a gigantic reservoir (approximately 700 acres), is a marvelous place for boating, fishing, and kayaking. Avid hikers will appreciate the steep trails at the Sandy Brook Forest Preserve, which are sure to leave a lasting impression.
Voluntown
In Voluntown, natural beauty is impossible to miss. Not only does the Pachaug River run through the heart of Voluntown, but the majority of this quaint town sits inside Pachaug State Forest. In this 27,000‑acre protected forest, the rolling hills, lush evergreen forests, and mountain laurel thickets are a one-of-a-kind escape in nature. Visit tranquil ponds like Green Falls and Beach Pond for kayaking, swimming, or quiet reflection. Adventurous and experienced hikers can check out beautiful panoramic vistas after ascending the rocky trails of Devil’s Den and Mount Misery. The journey may not be smooth, but the views are worth it. If you prefer more peaceful activities, try catching a rainbow trout or small-mouth bass at Beach Pond, which is located on the east side of town.
Sherman
Nestled in the Housatonic Valley at the northern end of Candlewood Lake, Sherman’s rolling hills, open skies, and shimmering shoreline are a picture-perfect combination. The town prioritizes and protects its natural spaces for both residents and visitors. For example, a walk along the boardwalk through wetlands in the Wimisink Preserve allows for birding and quiet nature walks while minimally disrupting the natural habitat. Mallory Preserve also showcases a wooded wetland, as well as trails that go up Turner Mountain to fabulous seasonal lookout points. Another beautiful spot for hiking, bird watching, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing in Sherman to check out is Deer Pond Farm. Add Candlewood Lake’s calm, cool waters to the list of scenic areas in Sherman, and it quickly becomes apparent that this Connecticut town’s natural beauty is without equal.
Cornwall
Cornwall is a sublime retreat set among rolling hills, deep forests, and the graceful Housatonic River. Set in the Berkshire foothills of Litchfield County, the town is blanketed with white pines and grand hemlocks. Protected woodlands, such as Mohawk State Forest, Cathedral Pines Preserve, and Housatonic Meadows State Park, are valued assets in Cornwall, and for good reason. Whether you are looking for Appalachian Trail crossings, sweeping vistas, trout‑filled waters, or shaded camping grounds, one of these parks is the perfect setting. Mohawk Mountain is an excellent challenge for hikers, or riverside trails at Pine Knob Loop are more great places to connect to the natural landscapes of Cornwall. Additionally, the iconic West Cornwall Covered Bridge, which arches over the river, is a visual symbol of the town’s harmonious relationship with nature.
New Hartford
New Hartford, a small town of roughly 7,000, is a nature lover’s paradise surrounded by multiple parks and state forests. Nepaug State Forest to the south is a gigantic woodland filled with serene hiking trails and ridgelines with breathtaking valley overlooks. Tubing down the Farmington River is another great way to experience this state park. Brodie Park encompasses the glimmering West Hill Lake, which is ideal for boating and swimming in hot summer months, as well as a dog park and other outdoor recreation spaces. People’s State Forest to the north of the town is another great spot to appreciate local wildlife and scenery.
Morris
The town of Morris evokes the stunning natural essence of rural New England. Anchored by Connecticut's largest natural lake, Bantam Lake, the town’s landscape is framed by open skies, seasonal wildflowers, and serene woodlands. Camp Columbia State Park and Forest is a wonderful place to take in the area’s beauty as you hike upward toward majestic vistas, and along Mattatuck Trail, you will find apple orchards, beaver ponds, and Mount Tom’s summit tower. The White Memorial Conservation Center and local preserves protect local wetlands, forests, and meadows so that wildlife in Morris can thrive. Wherever you choose to go in Morris, natural beauty will be there, too.
East Haddam
East Haddam is another example of New England’s natural picturesque charm that will leave a lasting impression. At Devil’s Hopyard State Park, see Chapman Falls, which plunges 60 feet over sculpted rock steps; and the Eightmile River trails lead you through dense forests rich with birdlife. East Haddam Town Beach features calm waters and sandy shores, great for swimming and lounging around in the summer. Complementing these East Haddam highlights, land preserves, wetlands, and ridgelines frame the town in seasonal foliage and wildlife habitat, which maintains the town’s peaceful, unspoiled landscape.
Lyme
Situated along the Connecticut River just to the south of East Haddam is Lyme, a quaint town where natural bodies of water create extraordinary experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. For example, Selden Neck State Park is a unique island filled with untouched natural beauty that is only accessible via a short boat ride. Cedar Pond and Joshua Pond contain various coves that offer opportunities for exploration and an escape from the modern world. At Nehantic State Forest, trails, trout‑stocked ponds, and Nickerson Hill keep visitors busy and inspire wonder. Additionally, trails like Park Road allow hikers to feel like time travelers as they cross over colonial-era stone bridges and pass by beaver ponds in the middle of secluded hardwood forests.
Chester
Chester is a lovely town that blends the harmony of nature with historic charm. In Cockaponset State Forest, visitors can observe local wildlife, as well as explore over 100 miles of trails on foot or by bike. This forest also features a lake that is perfect for swimming and fishing. Chester Cedar Swamp, a National Natural Landmark recognized for its rare Atlantic white cedar forest, is also a unique aspect of Chester’s landscape that warrants a visit. Finally, to the east of Chester flows the Connecticut River, which enhances the town's scenic appeal.
Final Thoughts
Connecticut’s most scenic towns preserve and appreciate nature wonderfully. For residents and visitors alike, these towns represent the simple, sustaining beauty of nature unspoiled. Rivers flowing through valleys, trails winding through magnificent forests, and lakes shimmering under ever-changing skies are abundant in this quiet New England state. The commitment to protecting the land and inviting others to witness its quiet magic is a powerful message that will speak to any lover of nature. Will you accept Connecticut’s invitation to experience its beloved natural scenery?
