Machimoodus State Park

Machimoodus State Park is a 300-acre nature preserve in East Haddam with uplands, woodlands, meadows, and waterfront areas along the Salmon River and Salmon River Cove. The landscape includes diverse habitats and natural environments suitable for exploration.

Until 1998, the land was part of a dairy farm until Connecticut purchased the property and converted it into a public park. This transformation gave the public access to forest areas and riverbanks that had previously remained private.

Native American peoples called this place Machimoodus, meaning 'the place of noises', after unusual sounds they heard echoing through the land. Visitors walking through the forests today can still experience these natural phenomena.

The park is accessible through a network of hiking trails spanning about 7 kilometers, running along old farm roads and leading to overlooks. Visitors can choose different routes based on interest and fitness level while exploring the varied landscapes.

The area is known for mysterious sounds that originate beneath the ground and puzzled people for many years. Researchers confirmed in 1981 that these noises came from small earthquakes occurring in the subsurface.

Location: Middlesex County

Inception: 2008

Website: https://portal.ct.gov/DEEP/State-Parks/Parks/Machimoodus-State-Park

GPS coordinates: 41.49500,-72.48000

Latest update: December 6, 2025 17:45