Connecticut is probably not the first place you think of when you hear “mountains.” True, we don’t have the glorious peaks of the west. Bear Mountain, our highest point, is not quite 2,400 feet high, ranking 39th amongst all state high points. But we do have some beautiful elevations here within the Taconic Range. One mountain town in Connecticut that’s filled with history and incredible views is Avon, a suburb of Hartford.

Avon is a town of about 20,000. It was originally part of nearby Farmington, but split off into its own community in 1830. The views here are spectacular, particularly in the fall.

John Cudworth/Flickr

Mountains, history, lake views: Avon has it all.

Rick Schwartz/Flickr

If you’re a fan of the outdoors, there’s plenty to explore in Avon. The West Hartford Reservoir #6 trail is a delightful 3.8-mile lake hike that’s pretty easy.

Crystal McEwen/Alltrails

History lovers will find plenty to see here. The one-room Pine Grove School House, constructed in 1865, is still standing today and is now a museum.

Steve Rosenberger/Google Maps You can visit here to see just how schools looked over 100 years ago. It’s set up with an original sliding chalk board and students’ desks. Get more information from Visit CT. Pine Grove Schoolhouse, 3 Harris Rd, Avon, CT 06001, USA

The beautiful Avon Congregational Church building dates back to 1819. Right next door is a historic cemetery that’s great for a stroll.

Carol M. Highsmith/Library of Congress/Wikimedia Commons Visit the church’s website for additional information and directions. Avon Congregational Church, 6 W Main St, Avon, CT 06001, USA

Whether you’re interested in the history of the area or just like to explore beautiful places in Connecticut, you won’t be disappointed with a visit to Avon.

John Cudworth/Flickr

The cliffs that border Secret Lake are stupendous (and make for yet another great hike!)

redisant/Flickr

This is a great place for anyone looking to enjoy the beauty of fall foliage in Connecticut.

Patricia Young/Alltrails

Got more suggestions for great day trips in Connecticut? We’d love to hear them: share your thoughts in the comments!

Connecticut is probably not the first place you think of when you hear “mountains.” True, we don’t have the glorious peaks of the west. Bear Mountain, our highest point, is not quite 2,400 feet high, ranking 39th amongst all state high points. But we do have some beautiful elevations here within the Taconic Range. One mountain town in Connecticut that’s filled with history and incredible views is Avon, a suburb of Hartford.

John Cudworth/Flickr

Rick Schwartz/Flickr

Crystal McEwen/Alltrails

Steve Rosenberger/Google Maps

You can visit here to see just how schools looked over 100 years ago. It’s set up with an original sliding chalk board and students’ desks. Get more information from Visit CT.

Pine Grove Schoolhouse, 3 Harris Rd, Avon, CT 06001, USA

Carol M. Highsmith/Library of Congress/Wikimedia Commons

Visit the church’s website for additional information and directions.

Avon Congregational Church, 6 W Main St, Avon, CT 06001, USA

redisant/Flickr

Patricia Young/Alltrails

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Address: Avon, CT, USA