Dennis Hill State Park

Dennis Hill State Park is a wooded area in Connecticut covering more than 240 acres with hiking trails that lead to a high point with long-range views. Multiple paths wind through forests of different ages and compositions, connecting the summit area to lower sections of the property.

The land was originally owned by Frederick Shepard Dennis, a surgeon from New York who gave his estate to Connecticut in 1934. His donation transformed the private property into a public destination for outdoor recreation.

The octagonal stone structure at the summit once hosted gatherings for prominent visitors and remains a focal point for those walking the trails. This building offers a window into how wealthy landowners lived and entertained guests in the early twentieth century.

The park is accessible via Connecticut Route 272, which connects to parking areas and a picnic area near the trail heads. Visitors should wear sturdy footwear since some paths are steep and the ground can be uneven in places.

The hill represents the remains of an ancient volcano, which explains the distinctive rock formations visible throughout the site. This geological past shapes the landscape in ways that rock and mineral enthusiasts find particularly interesting.

Location: Norfolk

Inception: 1935

Elevation above the sea: 496 m

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

GPS coordinates: 41.94861,-73.19861

Latest update: December 14, 2025 09:46