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Connecticut
5

Connecticut State Parks

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USA Parks
Connecticut
Litchfield Hills Region
Mount Bushnell State Park
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Mount Bushnell State Park Mount Bushnell State Park © Gary Jordan
The foliage is superb in the fall.
Mount Bushnell State Park Path © Gary Jordan
The left side of the path is state land the right side is private.
Mount Bushnell State Park Lake Waramaug View © Gary Jordan
At this point you have climbed high enough to see Lake Waramaug through the trees.
Mount Bushnell State Park Path © Gary Jordan
As you see here this rock wall is man made. Much work was put into building this road, but the state has all but abandoned any maintenance efforts as of late.
Mount Bushnell State Park Path Leading Out © Gary Jordan
This State Park is hard to find because nothing is marked. This is probably true because there is private land that runs on one side of this path and on the other side is state land.
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MOUNT BUSHNELL STATE PARK
MOUNT BUSHNELL STATE PARK
Mount Bushnell State Park is a serene, scenic area known for its lush greenery and hiking trails. The park offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape from Mount Bushell's peak. It provides an ideal setting for outdoor activities such as picnicking, bird watching or simply enjoying nature's tranquility.
History of the Area
Located in Washington, Connecticut, the park was established in 1921. It covers an area of approximately 137 acres. The land for this state-owned public recreation area was donated by George Harte.

The park is named after David Bushnell who invented a submarine used during the Revolutionary War. Its main feature is Mount Bushnell which stands at about 800 feet above sea level and offers panoramic views of surrounding areas.

Over time it has become popular among hikers due to its scenic trails that wind through dense forests and rocky terrain.

Passes
Connecticut has made state parks, forests, trails, historic sites and beaches more accessible to our residents so they can enjoy the many attractions and beauty they offer. Under the Passport to the Parks program, parking fees are now eliminated at Connecticut State Parks for those with Connecticut registered vehicles. You can view the CONNECTICUT PASSPORT TO THE PARKS web page to learn more.



Trails
- Mount Bushnell Loop Trail: A 2.4-mile moderately trafficked loop trail that features beautiful wild flowers and is rated as moderate, offering a number of activity options.

- Summit Viewpoint Trail: This short but steep 0.5 mile hike leads to the summit of Mt. Bushnell where hikers can enjoy panoramic views over Connecticut's rolling hills and valleys.

- Blue Blazed Hiking Trails: These trails are part of an extensive network across Connecticut; in Mount Bushnell State Park they offer various routes through dense forest with occasional scenic overlooks - exact length varies depending on chosen route.

- Western Ridge Trail: An approximately three miles long hiking path which follows along the western ridge line providing stunning vistas towards New York state border area throughout its course.

- Eastern Valley Pathway : Approximately two miles long this pathway meanders down into valley areas from higher elevations giving different perspectives on local flora fauna while also being less strenuous than some other park hikes.

-Bushy Pond Circuit : Roughly one mile circuit around picturesque pond within park boundaries suitable for all skill levels due to flat terrain making it ideal family friendly option or quick nature walk experience .

-South Overlook Spur : Short half mile spur off main blue blazed trail leading up to southernmost viewpoint overlooking surrounding countryside , good addition if seeking extra challenge during your visit .

-North Woods Walkabout : Two-and-a-half-mile trek taking you deep into northern section woods allowing close encounters with native wildlife species such deer squirrels birds etc., recommended early morning late afternoon when animals most active .

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Area Campgrounds
Cozy Hills Campground
1311 Route 202 Bantam Road
Bantam, CT
860-567-2119
Hemlock Hill Camp Resort
118 Hemlock Hill Road
Litchfield, CT
860-567-2267
Nearby Hotels
Booking.com

Directions
Directions from Hartford, Connecticut:

- Start on I-91 S.
- Take exit 22 for CT-9 toward New Britain/Middletown.
- Merge onto CT Route 9 S.

From Middletown, Connecticut:

- Get on the ramp to Berlin/I84/New Haven/CT17/Hartford and merge with CT Route 66 E/Washington Street
- Continue straight onto Washington St.

Arriving at Mount Bushnell State Park:

- Turn right into Strickland Road
- Drive down until you see signs indicating entrance of park

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Connecticut
5

Connecticut State Parks

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