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Like so many Connecticut state parks, Gay City offers recreational activities with a big serving of history on the side.
Gay City was founded in 1796 as a religious settlement that for years held itself aloof from neighboring communities. Its name came from the Gay clan, which made up the majority of the 25 resident families.
A succession of mills along the Black Ledge River drove the town's economy until it collapsed after the Civil War. Today, only some decrepit stone foundations, cellar holes and a few old headstones remain from the settlement.
About 11 miles of trails for equestrians, hikers and cyclists loop through the park's 1,569 acres, which straddle the Hebron-Bolton town line. The trails pass the pond, old dam and mill sites along the Black Ledge and connect to the Shenipsit Trail just outside the park.
A winter parking lot is maintained to accommodate cross-country skiers and snowshoers.
A short wheelchair-accessible path goes to a small pond. There are no lifeguards, but there is a designated swim area. The pond is stocked with trout, and anglers also catch native bass and pickerel.
The entrance to Gay City State Park is on Route 85. The park is about 12 miles from downtown Hartford and is close to I-384.
An entry fee is charged during weekends and holidays from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
Outdoor Activities |
