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This Charming Mountain Town Near NYC Was Named A Must-Visit Winter Escape—With Ski Slopes, Frozen Waterfalls, & Cozy Cabins

Seeking a **snowy [mountain](https://secretnyc.co/best-mountain-towns-near-nyc/)** **adventure** or a **peaceful [woodland](https://secretnyc.co/hidden-waterfall-the-ravine-central-park/)** **retreat** this winter? We’ve got you covered—all in one place! Tucked away in **the heart** of Litchfield County, **Barkhamsted, [Connecticut](https://secretnyc.co/top-beach-near-nyc-2025-greenwich-point-park-ct-cn-traveler/)** is a hidden gem where rolling hills, [sparkling lakes](https://secretnyc.co/most-captivating-small-towns-ny-world-atlas-saranac-lake/), and cozy cabins come together to create the **ultimate** **[winter escape](https://secretnyc.co/nyc-winter-bucket-list/).** Located a **scenic**, three hour drive from NYC, this getaway offers **stunning historical architecture** and adventures for **every type of visitor**, including [skiing](https://secretnyc.co/best-ski-resorts-near-nyc/) **the Sundown mountains**, sightseeing along the **Enders Brook Forest and Saville Dam**, and exploring the **charming downtown area.** After a day on the slopes or exploring the snow-dusted trails, unwind by the fireplace in one of the area’s **rustic lodges or boutique inns**. For outdoor enthusiasts, the nearby **People’s State Forest** and **American Legion State Forest** offer miles of snowshoeing and cross-country skiing trails, while **Lake McDonough** provides serene winter views perfect for a quiet stroll or photo op. **❄️ Things to Do in Barkhamsted, CT** -------------------------------------- Whether you’re chasing adventure or craving a quiet escape, Barkhamsted has something for everyone this winter. * **🎿 Hit the Slopes at Ski Sundown:** Just a short drive away, [Ski Sundown](https://skisundown.com/) in nearby [New Hartford](https://www.newhartfordct.gov/) offers well-groomed trails for all skill levels, from first-timers to seasoned skiers. Try night skiing under the lights or warm up with hot cocoa at the lodge between runs. * **🌲 Explore the Winter Trails:** Bundle up and wander through the peaceful woods of [People’s State Forest](https://ctparks.com/parks/peoples-state-forest) or [American Legion State Forest](https://ctparks.com/parks/american-legion-state-forest), where you can snowshoe, cross-country ski, or simply take in the beauty of a snow-covered landscape. * **🏞️ Visit the Saville Dam and [Barkhamsted Reservoir](https://carefree-creative.com/barkhamsted-reservoir/)****:** Marvel at one of Connecticut’s most photogenic landmarks. The [Saville Dam Overlook](https://westbrooklibrary.org/news/what-to-do-in-connecticut/saville-dam-and-barkhamsted-reservoir/) offers breathtaking views of the frozen reservoir and the surrounding hills—perfect for photos or a quiet moment in nature. * **🥾 Scenic Hikes and Hidden Gems:** For more outdoor beauty, check out the [Enders State Forest](https://portal.ct.gov/deep/state-parks/forests/enders-state-forest), home to the stunning [Enders Falls](https://earlybirdonthetrail.com/enders-falls-granby-connecticut-hike/). In winter, the frozen cascades create an incredible natural ice sculpture worth the short hike. * **🪵 Cozy Cabin Getaways:** Stay in one of Barkhamsted’s [inviting cabins](https://camphappygrounds.com/white-pines/) or [nearby inns](http://choicehotels.com/connecticut/barkhamsted/hotels?checkInDate=2025-08-18&checkOutDate=2025-08-19). Many feature fireplaces, rustic décor, and scenic views—perfect for a romantic retreat or a peaceful weekend away. **🏘️ Downtown & Local Highlights** ---------------------------------- While Barkhamsted is best known for its natural beauty, its small-town charm shines through in its historic village centers, local shops, and welcoming community spirit. The town’s two main hubs, [Pleasant Valley](https://www.nature.org/en-us/get-involved/how-to-help/places-we-protect/pleasant-valley-preserve/) and [Riverton Village](https://www.rivertonct.com/), offer a glimpse into classic New England life, surrounded by snow-covered rooftops and winding country roads in winter. * **🏡 Riverton Village:** Step back in time! Riverton is a postcard-perfect village at the intersection of the Farmington River’s east and west branches. Here you’ll find [The Hitchcock Chair Company](https://hitchcockchair.com/), one of America’s oldest furniture makers, known for its hand-painted designs and craftsmanship dating back to the early 1800s. Stop by the [Riverton General Store](https://www.facebook.com/p/The-Riverton-General-Store-61556595131594/?saml_reauth=1762803273) for a warm cup of [coffee](https://secretnyc.co/best-coffee-shops-nyc/), homemade pastries, or local gifts. * **🕯️ Local Shops & Artisan Finds:** Barkhamsted’s surrounding area offers a mix of cozy shops and hidden gems. Browse local antiques, handmade crafts, and seasonal goods in [New Hartford](https://www.newhartfordct.gov/) and [Winsted](https://www.townofwinchester.org/), both just minutes away. It’s the perfect place to find a one-of-a-kind souvenir or gift. * **🎄 Winter Events & Community Spirit:** During the holiday season, Riverton lights up with its annual [Christmas Fair](https://www.rivertonct.com/events) and **Holiday Tree Lighting**! You might even catch a [horse-drawn carriage](https://secretnyc.co/mayor-adams-urges-city-council-to-pass-ryders-law-and-ban-horse-drawn-carriages-nyc/) or a visit from Santa along Main Street. * **🌉 Scenic Drives & Photo Stops:** Don’t miss the chance to drive along **East River Road**, a beautifully scenic route hugging the Farmington River, or stop at the [Riverton Bridge](https://www.rivertonct.com/about-us) for a perfect winter photo of the snow-dusted landscape. **📍How to get there from NYC** ------------------------------ Escape the city and head north for a peaceful New England getaway — Barkhamsted is closer than you think! **🚗 By Car (Approx. 2.5–3 hours)** The most convenient way to reach Barkhamsted from New York City is by car. * Take **I-684 North** to **I-84 East** toward Hartford * Exit at **Route 8 North** in Waterbury, and follow signs for **Winsted/Barkhamsted** * Continue onto **Route 44 West**, then follow **Route 318** or **East River Road** into town The drive is scenic, especially once you reach the rolling hills of Litchfield County — expect winding roads, [mountain](https://secretnyc.co/best-mountain-towns-near-nyc/) views, and plenty of photo-worthy stops along the way. **🚆 By Train & Car** If you prefer to skip some of the driving, take the **Metro-North Harlem Line** from **Grand Central Terminal** to **Wassaic Station** (the last stop). From there, rent a car — Barkhamsted is about **a 1-hour drive east** through charming [small towns](https://secretnyc.co/best-small-towns-near-nyc/) and countryside roads. Learn more about Barkhamsted and plan a trip for yourself [on their website](https://www.barkhamsted.us/)! Source: [https://secretnyc.co/barkhamsted-connecticut-winter-escape-near-nyc/](https://secretnyc.co/barkhamsted-connecticut-winter-escape-near-nyc/)

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This Charming Mountain Town Near NYC Was Named A Must-Visit Winter Escape—With Ski Slopes, Frozen Waterfalls, & Cozy Cabins

Seeking a snowy [mountain](https://secretnyc.co/best-mountain-towns-near-nyc/) adventure or a peaceful [woodland](https://secretnyc.co/hidden-waterfall-the-ravine-central-park/) retreat this winter? We’ve got you covered—all in one place! Tucked away in the heart of Litchfield County, Barkhamsted, [Connecticut](https://secretnyc.co/top-beach-near-nyc-2025-greenwich-point-park-ct-cn-traveler/) is a hidden gem where rolling hills, sparkling lakes, and cozy cabins come together to create the ultimate [winter escape](https://secretnyc.co/nyc-winter-bucket-list/). Located a scenic , three hour drive from NYC, this getaway offers stunning historical architecture and adventures for every type of visitor , including skiing the Sundown mountains , sightseeing along the Enders Brook Forest and Saville Dam , and exploring the charming downtown area. After a day on the slopes or exploring the snow-dusted trails, unwind by the fireplace in one of the area’s rustic lodges or boutique inns . For outdoor enthusiasts, the nearby People’s State Forest and American Legion State Forest offer miles of snowshoeing and cross-country skiing trails, while Lake McDonough provides serene winter views perfect for a quiet stroll or photo op. ❄️ Things to Do in Barkhamsted, CT -------------------------------------- Whether you’re chasing adventure or craving a quiet escape, Barkhamsted has something for everyone this winter. * 🎿 Hit the Slopes at Ski Sundown: Just a short drive away, Ski Sundown in nearby New Hartford offers well-groomed trails for all skill levels, from first-timers to seasoned skiers. Try night skiing under the lights or warm up with hot cocoa at the lodge between runs. * 🌲 Explore the Winter Trails: Bundle up and wander through the peaceful woods of People’s State Forest or American Legion State Forest, where you can snowshoe, cross-country ski, or simply take in the beauty of a snow-covered landscape. * 🏞️ Visit the Saville Dam and [Barkhamsted Reservoir](https://carefree-creative.com/barkhamsted-reservoir/) : Marvel at one of Connecticut’s most photogenic landmarks. The Saville Dam Overlook offers breathtaking views of the frozen reservoir and the surrounding hills—perfect for photos or a quiet moment in nature. * 🥾 Scenic Hikes and Hidden Gems: For more outdoor beauty, check out the Enders State Forest, home to the stunning Enders Falls. In winter, the frozen cascades create an incredible natural ice sculpture worth the short hike. * 🪵 Cozy Cabin Getaways: Stay in one of Barkhamsted’s inviting cabins or nearby inns. Many feature fireplaces, rustic décor, and scenic views—perfect for a romantic retreat or a peaceful weekend away. 🏘️ Downtown & Local Highlights ---------------------------------- While Barkhamsted is best known for its natural beauty, its small-town charm shines through in its historic village centers, local shops, and welcoming community spirit. The town’s two main hubs, Pleasant Valley and Riverton Village, offer a glimpse into classic New England life, surrounded by snow-covered rooftops and winding country roads in winter. * 🏡 Riverton Village: Step back in time! Riverton is a postcard-perfect village at the intersection of the Farmington River’s east and west branches. Here you’ll find The Hitchcock Chair Company, one of America’s oldest furniture makers, known for its hand-painted designs and craftsmanship dating back to the early 1800s. Stop by the Riverton General Store for a warm cup of coffee, homemade pastries, or local gifts. * 🕯️ Local Shops & Artisan Finds: Barkhamsted’s surrounding area offers a mix of cozy shops and hidden gems. Browse local antiques, handmade crafts, and seasonal goods in New Hartford and Winsted, both just minutes away. It’s the perfect place to find a one-of-a-kind souvenir or gift. * 🎄 Winter Events & Community Spirit: During the holiday season, Riverton lights up with its annual Christmas Fair and Holiday Tree Lighting ! You might even catch a horse-drawn carriage or a visit from Santa along Main Street. * 🌉 Scenic Drives & Photo Stops: Don’t miss the chance to drive along East River Road , a beautifully scenic route hugging the Farmington River, or stop at the Riverton Bridge for a perfect winter photo of the snow-dusted landscape. 📍How to get there from NYC ------------------------------ Escape the city and head north for a peaceful New England getaway — Barkhamsted is closer than you think! 🚗 By Car (Approx. 2.5–3 hours) The most convenient way to reach Barkhamsted from New York City is by car. * Take I-684 North to I-84 East toward Hartford * Exit at Route 8 North in Waterbury, and follow signs for Winsted/Barkhamsted * Continue onto Route 44 West , then follow Route 318 or East River Road into town The drive is scenic, especially once you reach the rolling hills of Litchfield County — expect winding roads, mountain views, and plenty of photo-worthy stops along the way. 🚆 By Train & Car If you prefer to skip some of the driving, take the Metro-North Harlem Line from Grand Central Terminal to Wassaic Station (the last stop). From there, rent a car — Barkhamsted is about a 1-hour drive east through charming small towns and countryside roads. Learn more about Barkhamsted and plan a trip for yourself on their website! Source: https://secretnyc.co/barkhamsted-connecticut-winter-escape-near-nyc/

New York
Peoples State Forest
Peoples State ForestPeoples State Forest