INDIAN WELL STATE PARK
The park's scenic waterfalls and splash pool give this park its name, Indian Well. The lovely falls, and shaded picnic grove at the water's edge make this park a great place to spend a lazy summer day.
Indian Well was so named because of the Romeo and Juliet-like Native American legend surrounding the Park's scenic waterfalls and the splash pool at the bottom of the falls. Local Native Americans never actually used the area as a well. Although the falls are lovely, the Park's primary attraction is its location on the western bank of the Housatonic River. The shaded picnic grove at the water's edge is a nice spot to spend a lazy summer day.
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.
Indian Well State Park offers a freshwater swimming area along the Housatonic River with a scenic waterfall nearby. Lifeguards are not present, so visitors swim at their own risk during park hours. There's also a designated picnic area close to the water for relaxation after swimming.
Visitors can enjoy freshwater fishing along the Housatonic River. Species include trout, bass, and perch among others. A valid license is required for anglers 16 or older. The scenic waterfall area also offers a peaceful backdrop for casting lines.
Indian Well State Park is located near Ansonia, Bethel and Bridgeport
Indian Well State Park offers scenic picnicking spots by the Housatonic River, with tables available and grills for barbecuing.
- Indian Well Falls Trail: A short, 0.2-mile trail leading to a scenic waterfall; suitable for all skill levels and primarily used for hiking, walking, nature trips.
- Blue-blazed Paugussett Trail (South Section): This is an approximately 9 miles long moderate difficulty level hike that starts at the park's entrance and ends near Lake Zoar with several steep sections along the way.
- Crestwood Drive Loop: An easy loop of about one mile in length around residential areas within the state park boundaries; ideal for beginners or those seeking a leisurely walk amidst natural surroundings.
- Birchbank Mountain Segment: Part of The Shelton Trails System which extends into Indian Well State Park from Echo Hose Road up towards Birchbank Golf Course - it's roughly two miles round trip offering views over Housatonic River on clear days.
- Sanford Feeder Trail Connector: Connects directly to Blue Blazed Paugusset South section providing additional access points - this feeder trail stretches nearly half-a-mile through dense woodlands.
-The Red Dot White Circle Loop : Roughly three-quarters-of-a-mile-long loop located off main parking area featuring mixed terrain including rocky outcrops making it slightly challenging but still manageable by most hikers.
-Paugussett North Extension Route : Approximately four-miles stretch extending northwards beyond traditional end point of blue blazes marking moderately difficult due its elevation changes yet rewarding with panoramic vistas across Connecticut countryside especially during fall season when leaves change color dramatically.
From Route 8 north: take Exit 14. At the end of the exit ramp take a left, and then take the next left onto Howe Avenue. Go north for approximately 2? miles. Indian Well State Park will be on the right.
From Route 8 south: take Exit 14. Take a right and drive approximately 2? miles. Indian Well State Park will be on the right.