Collis P. Huntington State Park

The park spans roughly 1,000 acres across the towns of Redding, Bethel, and Newtown and contains five ponds, a lagoon, and Lake Hopewell within its boundaries. The terrain features ten miles of trails winding through diverse landscapes suitable for hiking, cycling, and horseback riding.

The land was donated by heirs of railroad magnate Collis Potter Huntington to create a public space. Previously, it belonged to Commodore Walter Luttgen, who added access roads and created artificial ponds.

Bronze sculptures of bears and wolves at the entrance were created by artist Anna Hyatt Huntington and represent the animals living in the region. These works shape how visitors first experience the park and remind them of the wildlife they might encounter.

The park opens daily at sunrise and closes at sunset, offering plenty of space for visitors on any day of the week. Wear appropriate footwear and expect muddy or slippery conditions during wet weather.

The northern section holds mineral deposits including tourmaline, showing signs of past mining activity. These geological features reveal that the land had economic use well before becoming a park.

Location: Fairfield County

Inception: 1973

Website: https://portal.ct.gov/DEEP/State-Parks/Parks/Collis-P-Huntington-State-Park

GPS coordinates: 41.35000,-73.35500

Latest update: December 6, 2025 17:43