Friends of Topsmead State Forest  (FTSF) is a volunteer non-profit 501(c)(3) organization whose purpose is to work with the State of Connecticut Department of Energy & Environmental Protection (DEEP) to provide programs and activities to promote, preserve, protect, and maintain the history, heritage and environmental integrity of Topsmead, thereby supporting the wishes of Edith Morton Chase in her will, gifting Topsmead to the State of Connecticut. 
Support the mission of the Friends of Topsmead State Forest. Click HERE for more information about the Give Local event.

History of Topsmead

In 1917, Edith Morton Chase received a gift from her father, 16 acres of pristine woods in the Litchfield hills.  Today, Topsmead is a state forest with over 500 acres of diverse landscapes.  

Things to do

Walk miles of trails through meadows and woods. Enjoy picnicking, birdwatching, sledding, and cross-country skiing. Tour Chase cottage, and the flower gardens. Discover the peaceful spirit of Topsmead.

Volunteer

Find out how you can participate in preserving and promoting the rich heritage and natural beauty of Topsmead State Forest.  
To learn more visit and ‘like’ us on Facebook: 
Topsmead State Forest FACEBOOK connection 
Visiting Topsmead State Forest 
Buell Road, Litchfield, CT
Topsmead offers 510 acres of forests and meadows, for year-round passive recreation including walking, picnicking, bird watching, sledding, and cross-country skiing. In addition, the Edith Chase Ecology Trail is mile walk with interpretive signs.
​Dogs on a leash are welcome. (Note: open fires & grills are not allowed).
Free Guided Tours of Chase Cottage 
From June through October on the 2nd and 4th weekends of each month from 12:00 PM-5:00 PM.
Check our Facebook page for upcoming special programs and events. 
Hours: 8:00 AM – Sunset year-round
Contact Information: Topsmead State Forest Phone: 860-567-5694 
Directions 
From Route 8: Take Exit 42. Go west on Route 118 for 2.0 miles. Turn left onto Clark Road to the stop sign. Take a right at the stop sign then the first left onto Buell Road. The first right off Buell is the entrance to Topsmead. 
​From Litchfield Center: Take Route 118 east for 1.5 miles. Take a right onto East Litchfield Road. Take the first right onto Buell Road. Topsmead will be the first road on the right.