Gillette Castle State Park sits atop the most southernly hill in a chain known as the Seven Sisters and is located 1 hour E/NE of New Haven, Connecticut. The park spans 122-acres, offers hiking trails, picnic areas, river camping, beautiful views of the Connecticut River and tours of the Castle (which I didn’t do). The significance of Gillette Castle State Park lies in the history of the castle and that of the original owner, William Hooker Gillette, noted actor, director, and playwright. The focal point of his effort was a twenty four room mansion reminiscent of a medieval castle. In 1943 the the State of Connecticut purchased the property from the executors of Mr. Gillette’s will, Gillette Castle and the adjoining property with its fine woodlands, trails, and vistas are now administered for the enjoyment of present and future generations. This apparently would have pleased Gillette, since his will gave specific directions to see that the property did not fall into the hands “of some blithering saphead who has no conception of where he is or with what surrounded.” I guess his spirited demeanor is enough to warrant a visit. You can learn more about William Hooker Gillette and the Castle on the state website: Gillette Castle State Park
Pictures: The Entrance | Map of the Park
Pictures: The castle as you walk up from the parking lot.
Pictures: The Connecticut River side of the Castle | The Grand Central Station picnic area
Pictures: Views of the Connecticut River from the Castle Terrace
Nearby is the Chester–Hadlyme Ferry and I enjoyed the hike down to the Connecticut River.
Pictures: The Ferry | View along the Connecticut River
Outside on the grounds, Gillette’s influence is no less in evidence. The trails often follow, over trestle and through tunnel, the actor’s three mile long narrow gauge railroad. Gillette’s own walking paths were constructed with near-vertical steps, stone-arch bridges, and wooded trestles spanning up to forty feet.
Pictures: Both along the Red Trail | A bridge | A bench to stop and enjoy nature
My favorite Trail was the Purple or Train Trail on the east side of the park. There was this uber cool tunnel you had to hike through.
Overall, I’d categorize this park as your everyday park, it was nice to visit as I was in the area, but I don’t think I would make a special trip to go to the park.
Date of Visit: 6 July 2023
