HomeProtected PlacesBurr Pond State Park
Burr Pond State Park adventures

Burr Pond State Park Adventures

Burr Pond State Park is a serene 438-acre recreation area in Connecticut offering a diverse range of outdoor activities centered around its 85-acre glacial pond.

438
Acres Protected
3.5
Miles of Trails
50,000
Annual Visitors
1949
Year Established

About Burr Pond State Park

 

Located in Torrington, Connecticut, Burr Pond State Park features an 85-acre glacial pond created from a dam on the East Branch Naugatuck River. The park’s landscape includes mixed hardwood forests, wetlands, and rocky outcrops that support diverse wildlife including wood turtles, beavers, and various bird species. The pond is a popular spot for fishing and boating, with non-motorized watercraft encouraged to maintain the tranquil environment. The park is rich in history; the area was once home to Bethany town’s ice industry, and remnants of historic mill foundations can be found within the park boundaries. Hiking trails weave through the forest, providing visitors with peaceful woodland walks and opportunities to spot local flora and fauna. Burr Pond Trail, the main trail, is noted for its scenic views and diverse habitats. Picnic areas and a seasonal swimming beach attract families in warmer months, while wintertime offers snowshoeing and cross-country skiing opportunities. Burr Pond State Park appeals to visitors seeking a quiet outdoor escape, blending natural beauty with recreational versatility. It is managed under the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, ensuring continued conservation of its ecosystems and recreational value.

Highlights

Highlight

Burr Pond - a pristine, 85-acre glacial pond ideal for fishing and paddle sports

Highlight

Historic remnants of the town’s ice harvesting and milling industry

Highlight

Burr Pond Trail - a scenic wooded trail offering wildlife viewing and tranquil hiking

Highlight

Seasonal swimming beach with easy access and picnic facilities

Notable Natural Features

Burr Pond

An 85-acre glacially formed pond used for fishing, boating, and seasonal swimming with a swimming beach and dock area.

Burr Pond Trail

A 3.5-mile loop trail that circumnavigates the pond, passing through mixed woodland habitats and historic sites.

Historic Ice House Ruins

Remnants of Burr Pond’s 19th-century ice harvesting industry, located near the pond’s northern shore.