Remote Granby Spot Cited As One Of Top 'Unknown' Picnic Areas In U.S.

GRANBY, CT — A scenic state park long renowned for its gorgeous waterfalls and challenging hiking trails has been acclaimed by a national publication as one of the top off-grid picnic spots in the country.

Enders State Forest on Route 219 is an expansive area of more than 2,000 acres, which became Connecticut's 29th state forest upon its transfer from the Enders family in April 1970. Partly extending into neighboring Barkhamsted, the highlight of any visit is a three-quarter mile-long trail marked with purple colored blazes, which leads hikers to a view of the waterfalls.

Mixbook.com surveyed thousands of Americans and recently published a list of the top 125 virtually unknown picnic spots across the U.S.

"These lesser-known locations, cherished for their tranquility and natural beauty, offer the perfect escape from the crowds and noise of more frequented areas. Nestled in remote mountains, hidden within dense forests, or beside scenic lakes, these top-rated spots promise a peaceful retreat where you can truly connect with nature."

Enders State Forest placed 83rd in the rankings, and was one of just two Connecticut entries on the list. The other was Elizabeth Park in West Hartford, which was ranked No. 61.

The top three spots went to Leu Gardens of Orlando, Fla., Shelby Farms Park in Memphis, Tenn., and Alafia River State Park in Lithia, Fla. Other New England locations were:

• Lincoln Woods State Park, Lincoln RI (11)
• Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park, Woodstock VT (16)
• Halibut Point State Park, Rockport MA (20)
• Colt State Park, Bristol RI (65)
• Mason Recreation Area, Mason NH (85)
• Reid State Park, Georgetown ME (87)
• Middlesex Fells Reservation, Medford MA (106)
• Miller State Park, Peterborough NH (114)
• Odiorne Point State Park, Rye NH (115)
• Rangeley Lake State Park, Rangeley ME (116)