Sunrise State Park
Discover the natural beauty and intriguing history of Sunrise State Park, a former resort town now offering serene trails and scenic views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds for sunrise
Sunrise State Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds for sunrise
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the natural beauty and intriguing history of Sunrise State Park, a former resort town now offering serene trails and scenic views.
"A beautiful area to explore, offering nature and history with well-marked trails and a dog-friendly vibe."
🌅 Catch the Best Sunrise
Arrive before dawn for the most spectacular sunrise views. Weekdays are less crowded!
🐾 Dog-Friendly Trails
Bring your furry friends! Many visitors enjoy walking their dogs on the park's trails.
Quick Facts
Rating
4.5 · 56 reviews
Type
State Park
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sunrise Views
Various overlooks
Witness breathtaking sunrises painting the sky with vibrant colors. A truly magical start to your day.
Historic Resort Ruins
Former Sunrise Resort area
Explore the intriguing remnants of a once-grand resort, including abandoned buildings and old tennis courts.
Salmon River Access
Salmon River
Enjoy cartop boat launches and scenic views along the tranquil Salmon River.
Well-Maintained Trails
Throughout the park
Hike or walk on easy to moderate, well-marked trails perfect for all fitness levels.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Sunrise State Park Visit
Exploring Sunrise State Park's History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Best sunrise hikes in central CT
tomorrow is my first day off in a while and i would love to go watch the sunrise on top of a mountain or something. what are the best hikes in the Hartford area to see that?
🌅 Catch the Best Sunrise
Arrive before dawn for the most spectacular sunrise views. Weekdays are less crowded!
🐾 Dog-Friendly Trails
Bring your furry friends! Many visitors enjoy walking their dogs on the park's trails.
Devil's Hopyard State Park [OC] | East Haddam, CT | 7847 x 3533
Hikes and Happiness in CT
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🧺 Pack a Picnic Lunch
Enjoy a meal amidst nature. There are picnic benches available.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
Trails are easy to moderate, but good footwear ensures a comfortable exploration.
I'm moving to Moodus, any thing/place I have to check out?
uh, maybe check out the abandoned sunrise resort. there is an overgrown mini golf course there. other than that, good luck. sorry.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Catch the Best Sunrise
Arrive before dawn for the most spectacular sunrise views. Weekdays are less crowded!
🐾 Dog-Friendly Trails
Bring your furry friends! Many visitors enjoy walking their dogs on the park's trails.
🧺 Pack a Picnic Lunch
Enjoy a meal amidst nature. There are picnic benches available.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
Trails are easy to moderate, but good footwear ensures a comfortable exploration.
🗺️ Explore Resort History
Look for remnants of the old Sunrise Resort for a unique historical perspective.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Sunrise State Park for its beautiful natural scenery, well-maintained trails, and dog-friendly atmosphere. The historical remnants of the former resort add a unique charm. While some note the small parking at Machimoodus, the overall experience is described as comfortable and clean, making it a worthwhile destination for nature lovers and history buffs alike.
"A very beautiful national park. Many people walk their dogs and have lunch here. Some people also ride horses in the park. It is very comfortable and clean."
Huang Lin
"Lots of easy to moderate walking trails here and the connected Machimoodus park. Trails are well marked and well maintained.
Cartop boat launch on Salmon River.
Plenty of parking at Sunrise, the Machimoodus parking lot is small, but a short walk between them."
Geoff Butland
"Such a beautiful place and visit. I was able to refrence some history, to find out it was a resort years ago. Now, known as a state park, some of the houses still remain, but I can see the happiness that was there at one time. Many places to walk and enjoy nature. If you're looking for a nice destination to take in some nature and history, this place is worth it. Pack a nice lunch."
Dana
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Sunrise State Park is accessible by car. The main parking area is at Sunrise, with a smaller lot at Machimoodus. A short walk connects the two.
Yes, there is plenty of parking at the main Sunrise lot. The Machimoodus lot is smaller but sufficient.
Yes, using GPS with 'Sunrise State Park' should guide you directly to the park entrance.
Public transport options are limited. Driving is the most convenient way to reach Sunrise State Park.
From Hartford, take Route 9 South towards Middletown, then follow signs for East Haddam and eventually Sunrise State Park.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Sunrise State Park typically does not have an entrance fee, making it a great free outdoor destination.
State parks are generally open from dawn to dusk. It's best to check the official Connecticut State Parks website for specific hours.
No advance booking is usually required for general park entry. It's a walk-in park.
For specific activities like group events or certain recreational uses, permits might be required. Contact the park management for details.
The historic resort buildings are mostly boarded up and inaccessible, but their exteriors can be viewed.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The park offers easy to moderate trails, many well-marked. The loop around the former resort area is popular and offers historical insights.
Absolutely! Sunrise State Park is very dog-friendly, with many visitors enjoying walks with their pets.
Yes, there are picnic benches available in designated areas, perfect for enjoying a meal outdoors.
Yes, there's a cartop boat launch on the Salmon River, allowing for kayaking and canoeing.
You might spot various birds, small mammals, and other local wildlife while exploring the park's natural areas.
📸 📸 Photography
The sunrise itself offers incredible photographic opportunities. The historic resort ruins and riverbanks also provide unique shots.
Yes, the rolling hills, river, and expansive sky make it a great location for landscape photography, especially during sunrise.
Early morning for sunrise is spectacular. Golden hour in the late afternoon also offers beautiful light.
Drone usage is typically regulated in state parks. Check with the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) for current drone policies.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, and a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. A tripod is essential for sunrise shots.
Social
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