The best walks and hikes in Bolton Notch State Park
5.0
(8)
141
hikers
54
hikes
Hikes in Bolton Notch State Park explore a landscape defined by a natural rock depression, or notch, and forested hills. The park serves as a hub, connecting to larger trail systems like the flat, wide Hop River State Park Trail and the more rugged Shenipsit Trail. The area's terrain consists of packed earth and gravel paths, with some sections featuring rock ledges.
Best hiking trails in Bolton Notch State Park
- The most popular hiking route is Bolton Notch State Park — Bolton, Connecticut, a 2.9 mile (4.7 km) trail that takes around 1 hour 15 minutes to complete. This is an easy route with minimal elevation gain.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is Valley Falls Park Lake loop from Vernon, an easy 2.9 mile (4.7 km) path. The trail circles a lake within the adjacent Valley Falls Park.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Box Hill and John S. Risley Memorial Park loop — Manchester, Connecticut, a 2.9 mile (4.6 km) trail leading through nearby parkland, often completed in about 1 hour 20 minutes.
- Hiking in Bolton Notch State Park is defined by its central notch, forested hills, and connections to former railway lines. The trail network provides options for different ability levels, with most routes being easy to moderate.
- The routes in Bolton Notch State Park are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 5.0 stars from a number of reviews. More than 100 hikers have used komoot to explore Bolton Notch State Park's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 12, 2026
8.13km
02:06
20m
100m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
12.1km
03:26
260m
260m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
5
hikers
4.73km
01:17
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
5.89km
01:39
120m
130m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
hikers
4.18km
01:13
110m
110m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
With a beach area, ponds, streams, and miles of hiking trails, Valley Falls Park is a super popular recreational spot nestled up to the Andrew Kenneth Webster Preserve. Numerous viewpoints and overlooks line the trails that climb up above the Bolton Lakes.
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This trail runs through Bolton Notch State Park. It's mostly wooded (watch out for roots underfoot) but also passes by a couple of pretty ponds.
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Bolton Notch Pond is one of the biggest features in 95-acre Bolton State Park. Keep an eye out for birds in the water and along the lake's reedy shore, including the great blue heron.
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Nice, small waterfall created by the Dobsonville Pond Dam. You can get a good view of the falls from Hop River State Park Trail and from above on Dobson Road. You cannot enter into the pool at the bottom of the dam to swim, but the setting is peaceful, so it is a great place to stop for a break.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are dogs allowed in Bolton Notch State Park?
Yes, dogs are welcome in Bolton Notch State Park, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. Please be sure to clean up after your pet to help keep the trails enjoyable for everyone.
Is there parking available at the park?
Yes, there is a designated parking area for Bolton Notch State Park. Reviewers often mention that the lot is well-maintained and generally has plenty of spaces available for visitors.
Are there any easy, family-friendly hikes in the area?
Absolutely. The park and its surroundings are well-suited for families. The terrain is mostly packed earth and gravel, with many easy routes. For a gentle walk that connects to a paved multi-use path, consider the Charter Oak Park via Charter Oak Greenway, which is great for all ages.
What is the history of Bolton Notch State Park?
The area has a rich history. The notch itself was a path used for thousands of years by Native American tribes, including the Mohegan and Podunk. In the 19th century, it was transformed by the Hartford, Providence and Fishkill Railroad, which built a tunnel through the rock that you can still walk through today.
How can I find the old railroad tunnel?
The historic 800-foot railroad tunnel is a key feature of the park. It is now part of the Hop River State Park Trail, which runs directly through it. You can easily access this wide, flat trail from the main park area. Lights were added to the tunnel in 2025, making it accessible and safe to explore.
Are there any waterfalls in or near the park?
While Bolton Notch State Park itself is not known for waterfalls, the nearby Valley Falls Park is a popular local spot that features waterfall vistas and its own network of hiking trails. It's just a short drive from Bolton Notch.
What is Squaw Cave and how can I see it?
Squaw Cave is one of the few true caves in Connecticut, formed by rainwater slowly eroding a pocket of marble. It has a legendary history involving a Dutch cabin boy and his Podunk bride in the 1640s. The cave is located within the park and can be reached via the hiking trails, though the path to it can be steep.
What is the terrain like for hiking?
The trails in Bolton Notch State Park are quite varied. You'll find everything from wide, flat gravel paths on the former railway lines to more traditional hiking trails with packed earth, roots, and some rocky sections. The park connects to the rugged, blue-blazed Shenipsit Trail for those seeking a more challenging hike.
Are there any circular or loop trails?
Yes, the park offers several loop trails. The Mohegan Trail is a popular 1.7-mile loop that provides excellent views. For a slightly different experience with views of a mountain, the Lookout Mountain and Case Mountain via Shenipsit (blue blaze) Trail is another great loop option in the vicinity.
Can I go rock climbing in the park?
The park is known for its sheer rock ledges and cliffs, which are a result of its unique geology. While these features are scenic, rock climbing is a popular activity for experienced climbers in the area. Always ensure you have the proper gear and experience before attempting any climbs.
What do other hikers think of Bolton Notch State Park?
The hiking routes in Bolton Notch State Park are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Hikers often praise the well-maintained trails, the unique historical features like the tunnel, and the variety of interconnected paths that suit different skill levels.
How many hiking trails are in the park?
There are nearly 30 curated hiking routes in and around Bolton Notch State Park available on komoot. The park acts as a central hub, connecting to larger trail systems like the Hop River State Park Trail and the Shenipsit Trail, offering a wide variety of options for exploration.
Most popular routes in Bolton Notch State Park
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