I am catching up with my state park journeys here. I visited Chatfield Hollow last autumn and it was my 44th Connecticut State park. Two of my kids and I visited on Election Day. I highly recommend hiking on Election Day! Eased my stress somewhat. Not entirely, but the fresh air and exercise was a welcome.

Chatfield Hollow State Park is (was) known for its old covered bridge. I had no idea the major flood from August 2024 had wiped it out. We were disappointed when we saw it was gone. Yes, the old red covered bridge, a photo still on the website. So sad!

The path I took through the park was an hour and eleven minutes. We took a bit more of a moderate hike, choosing to head up the hill (and get a little lost!). As an FYI, if you use an Apple Watch and record a hike, you can forever go on your watch app on your phone and find out all the information for the hike. Here is our route I was able to easily access months later:

I have to be honest, my two girls did not like this hike! One reason, a lot of other people were doing the same thing that day. It was a bit too busy for them. The next reason, I worked them a bit! We got in an actual workout. Some parks we visit are on the easier side and they prefer that. I do not :)

Not shown on the map above, the caves. You have to see the caves here! As I pulled out of the park, close to the Route 80 entrance/exit, I parked at the lot right in front, by the sign. Off to the side is a small path that leads to the caves. They were awesome.

There are parts of the caves you can go inside, and it looks as though people have. There were remnants of a small fire pit. My apologies for not having more pictures, but this state park is for sure worth a visit. There are restrooms and many scenic areas to explore. I loved it (Even if my kids didn’t)!