Sandy beach
No
Cliff jumping
Yes
Hike-in Required
No
Sensitive Habitat
No
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

Bristol Falls, also known as Bartlett Falls, is a beautiful 14-foot waterfall with a swimming hole located on the New Haven River in Bristol. Parking is located along Lincoln Road. Both the falls and the swimming hole are popular with the locals. There are trails leading to the cliffs next to the falls where people cliff jump from approximately 20 to 30 feet, and there is a rope swing as well. There is a trail leading to the right, where there is river access and shallow water that is perfect for younger children. Strong swimmers can access the opposite side of the river and the base of the falls. There is a cave behind the falls that is accessible on the opposite side of the river from the road; note that the rocks here are slippery, so good shoes are handy and caution is recommended. 

Circle Current is located above Bristol Falls on the New Haven River and is another popular spot. There is parking located along Lincoln Road just up the road from Bristol Falls. The waterfall is perfect as a waterslide when the river is low, but it has a fast current when levels are high. The current is stronger at Circle Current than it is at Bristol Falls, so please use caution. Also, note that there are no restroom or trash facilities at either Circle Current or Bristol Falls, so please practice Leave No Trace principles.

Logistics + Planning

Parking Pass

Not Required

Pros

Cliff jumping. Variety of swimming hole depths. Waterfall. Cave to explore.

Cons

Limited parking. Slippery rocks. Crowded.

Location

Nearby Adventures

Nearby Lodging + Camping

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