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Devil's Hopyard State Park
4.7 ★★★★★ 1,949 Google reviews · Running trail in East Haddam, Connecticut · Hours vary
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Natural surface
- Loop distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Loop
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Not reported
Confirmed from Devil's Hopyard State Park's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
860 acres of rocky forest, crisscrossed by hiking trails & highlighted by 60-ft.-high Chapman Falls.
What runners say about Devil's Hopyard State Park
“There were also some port a potties in the parking lot but I don’t know how clean they were since we didn’t use any.”
“Devil's Hopyard State Park is a beautiful place to visit, with scenic waterfalls, peaceful hiking trails, and plenty of natural beauty.”
“It’s dog friendly but very small dogs won’t be make it probably.”
We came here on a Saturday for our engagement shoot and the photos came out perfect! The waterfall was right off the start of the trail so it’s easy to get to. The rocks are slippery the closer you get to the water but that’s expected.
Next stop on our Connecticut Waterfall Road Trip: Chapman Falls at Devil’s Hopyard State Park! These gorgeous falls cascade over unique rock formations with a steady, powerful flow.
Its a nice place. Good for hiking, fishing. But the trails are a bit rocky. You can follow the trail sign. It’s dog friendly but very small dogs won’t be make it probably. The parking place is huge. Should not be any problem. There’s one parking for the falls another one for the state park.
Devil's Hopyard is a beautiful state park with many trails. Pick the one best suited for your level before you walk. The orange trail was definitely a vigorous hike. Begin and end with the sights and sounds of the falls... tranquility at its best.
Trail conditions & character
“Devil's Hopyard State Park is a beautiful place to visit, with scenic waterfalls, peaceful hiking trails, and plenty of natural beauty.”
“The parking lot was pretty big and we didn’t have trouble finding a spot.”
“It’s dog friendly but very small dogs won’t be make it probably.”
“There are lots of stones and roots and some challenging uphill climbs but excellent views and beautiful tree lined trails.”
“Beautiful little park, no rangers or visitor center, no bathrooms other than 1 Porta potty.”
“Pick the one best suited for your level before you walk.”
Plan your run at Devil's Hopyard State Park
The practical stuff
- AccessHours vary — hours are not posted for this trail, so check before an early or late run
- SurfaceNatural surface — easiest on the joints and the most fun, but expect roots, rocks and mud after rain
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms, water — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
- Websitectparks.com
- Phone+1 860-424-3200
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Running trails near East Haddam
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
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Ruby & Elizabeth Cohen Woodlands
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