Day Trip Cornwall, CT; Hikes, History, & Where to Eat!
Shhh, don’t tell anyone – but tucked away in the hills of northwestern Connecticut, the town of Cornwall is one of CT’s lesser-known adventure spots. Get pulled in by its scenic beauty, small-town charm along the rambling Housatonic River, peaceful trails, and destination-worthy food.
Cornwall is a must-visit for hikers, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a quiet and quaint escape in northwest Connecticut. From the historic covered bridge, multiple bakeries, rural country roads, and scenic vistas Cornwall offers that perfect blend of outdoor adventure and rustic charm.
Pine Knob View
Yum!
Covered bridge at dusk 🌟
With two new bakeries and markets opening in the last two years – part of me worries about the town becoming more of a booming destination that will lose its power to immediately lower my blood pressure and make me take a deep breath as soon as I enter into its peaceful valley.
But with its location sandwiched between the Appalachian Trail, Mohawk State Forest, and Housatonic State Forest, I think the town will always retain the beauty and peaceful allure that made people first settle here in 1740. It also helps that it’s in the very top corner of northwest CT so it naturally cuts down on he traffic being just a bit removed.
Living in and exploring CT almost all my life – I’ve written about numerous day trip-worthy towns in CT but Cornwall (and really any place in the northwest corner) is always at the top of my list. It has the best hikes in the state, artisan bakeries, a COVERED BRIDGE, and much more!
History and charm abound.. so let’s discover the best things to do when visiting Cornwall, CT! 🌲⬇️
A Look at Cornwall’s History
Founded in 1740, Cornwall has a rich history rooted in farming, ironworks, and early American education. It’s here where the Foreign Mission School was established in 1817 to educate students from Native American and foreign backgrounds.
You can still find remnants of Cornwall’s past in its historic buildings, churches, and preserved farmlands.
Cornwall is perhaps most famous for the West Cornwall Covered Bridge, one of the most photographed covered bridges in New England. Built in 1864 and still in use today, the bridge spans the Housatonic River and serves as a gateway to the heart of the town.
1st: Choose a Hike or Walk
🌲 Mohawk State Forest (moderate)
sunset view from top of Mohawk
Fall view
Hike to the top of Mohawk Mountain where there are almost 360-degree views facing the Berkshires, Catskills, and you can even see Mount Greylock on a clear day!
My favorite way to get to the summit of Mohawk is taking the Cathedral Pines trail which leads you through the oldest preserved white pine forests in New England!
🌲 Housatonic River Walk (easy & flat)
the narrow Appalachian Trail!
This is my favorite river walk in CT and one of my favorite hikes in general! Park on River Road and walk for miles here down and back along the Housatonic River.
After just 0.18 miles on the trail, bear left to start walking on the white-blazed Appalachian Trail. Walk for as little or as long as you’d like since the trail continues for miles all the way into Kent.
🌲 Pine Knob Loop, (moderate)
Located across the street from the Blue Gate Bakery you’ll find parking for Pine Knob right on Route 7. For just a 2.5 mile loop you won’t believe all you’ll get on this hike! 😍
Taking the loop clockwise you’ll enjoy the many cascades of Hatch Brook Falls for a good half mile as you walk, then link up with the white-blazed Appalachian Trail where you’ll enjoy not one but TWO amazing lookouts over the Housatonic River Valley.
2nd: Places to Eat in Cornwall
Despite its small size, Cornwall has a handful of cozy spots that make refueling after a real treat.
Blue Gate Bakery/Boulanger Patissier
I FELL IN LOVE with this new bakery right around the corner from the Cornwall Market. Wowee. The pastries will make you feel like you’re in France! They make everything fresh each morning and “aim to sell out by close of business” so get there early for the best items!
As listed on their website this is “feel good food; everything we make is sustainably produced and ethically sourced”.
We ordered a croissant, coffee, and an egg and cheese – wow, everything was amazing and I can’t wait to go back!
Cornwall Market Bakery & Cafe
This is great place to stop to grab a coffee, snacks, picnic items, or a sandwich before or after the trails. They have a ton of pastry, baked goods, and meals-to-go in the fridge as well.
RSVP French Kitchen
A hidden gem offering upscale French-inspired cuisine in a cozy, rustic space. Make a reservation—this place is intimate and books up fast! This is high on my list to try but love reading all the super positive reviews.
The Pink House
The Pink House is a newer addition to Cornwall and has a variety of upscale American food from smash burgers and fries to short ribs and mashed potatoes or pappardelle pasta with vegetables.
We ordered the burger and short ribs. The food was ok, but can’t quite understand the whole vibe – it’s very pink in here and I’m not sure why but for me pink and food doesn’t seem to mix. And for all the effort on the interior decorating I would love for slightly bigger portion sizes or at least more than one asparagus on the plate. 😱
3rd: Places to Visit in Cornwall
Cornwall’s appeal isn’t just in its trails—it’s also in the quiet corners and cultural touches throughout town.
West Cornwall Covered Bridge
You can’t visit Cornwall without seeing this classic red-covered bridge. It’s postcard-perfect and a beautiful spot to take photos, especially in the fall.
The Shoppes at Cornwall Bridge
Right across the street from the Cornwall Market are a couple of connected shops with home goods, gifts, antiques, and homemade candles. When I was there they were giving away mini candles and I loved all the local CT inspired and made gifts as well.
Cream Hill Lake
A peaceful, lesser-known swimming spot with a public beach open to residents and their guests. If you’re staying in town or know someone local, it’s a great place to cool off in summer!
West Cornwall Farm Market
If you’re visiting Cornwall in late May through early October try to make it to the Farmers Market to stock up on fresh produce or a locally baked treat!
Best Time to Visit Cornwall, CT
I love visiting here any season but obviously, fall is magical and so is summer when the hills are green and alive.
If visiting Cornwall in the winter be sure to check out skiing and other winter sports at nearby Mohawk Mountain! ⛷️
Cornwall, Connecticut, may be small, but it offers big rewards for those who love the outdoors, history, and quiet charm. Whether hiking up Mohawk Mountain, grabbing a bite by the Housatonic River, or enjoying the country scenery on your drive, Cornwall invites you to slow down, take a deep breath, and appreciate the beauty of New England.
For more day trip itineraries in Connecticut check out one of the posts below!
Discover Cornwall, Connecticut: Hikes, History, and Hidden Gems
