Indian Well State Park
153 acres in Shelton, CT
Parking: Large lot near 1 Indian Well Rd, Shelton, CT and alternate/seasonal along the same road
Trail Map Trails: 2 miles Rating: ★★★★☆
Indian Well is a long narrow state park on the bank of the Housatonic River featuring a waterfall, picnic grover and beach area, and a boat launch. The park also hosts a two mile stretch of the blue blaze Paugussett Trail. Off-season parking is pretty limited, but the large lot usually opens at the beginning of April
Waterfall
The main attraction here is Indian Well Falls. Only a short walk up a well traveled ravine from the off-season parking area. The trail had been highly eroded over the years with some attempts to strengthen it, but it is still easily passable.
The waterfall is a narrow 15 foot plunge into a deep bowl. On my summer 2022 visit during the height of a drought the waterfall was only a trickle, but the bowl still contained a deep pool. The bowl was surrounded by enjoying the water and some kids were jumping into the pool (a popular activity despite it being officially prohibited with a $75 fine).
Hiking
This state park is trailed entirely by a section the blue blaze Paugussett Trail.
Swimming
Check the State Swimming Area Water Quality Report to make sure the beach is open.
There is a permanent alcohol ban in place at Indian Well State Park. Please do not bring alcoholic beverages and plan your visit accordingly.
Boating/Fishing
Easy seasonal access to the boat launch. Plenty of frontage for fishing.
Vessels are prohibited from approaching within 300 feet on upstream side or 1,500 feet on downstream side of Lake Housatonic Dam. Vessels proceeding upstream or downstream bear to their right. Minimum steerage speed within 25 feet of shore or dock. 45 MPH limit daytime, 25 MPH from 1/2 hour after sunset to 1/2 hour before sunrise. No kite skiing or parasailing without permission.
History:
Established as a state park in 1928. This park was featured in the 2017 Sky’s the Limit Hiking Challenge.
Links:
New England Waterfalls – Indian Well Falls
CTMQ – TSTL’17.7 Indian Well State Park (2017)
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Last updated August 21st, 2022
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