Shenipsit Lake, Ellington, Connecticut

Nestled in north central Connecticut, Shenipsit Lake is a beautiful natural lake that serves as an important reservoir for the region. Known locally as “The Snip,” this 522-acre body of water is owned and managed by Connecticut Water Company, providing drinking water to surrounding communities while also offering recreational opportunities for visitors.

You’ll find Shenipsit Lake offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and outdoor activities, with the popular Shenipsit Trail offering an easy 4.1-mile out-and-back route that follows an old rail bed. The trail takes most hikers just over an hour to complete and provides wonderful views of the lake. While activities around the lake are regulated due to its status as a public drinking water supply, it remains one of Connecticut’s hidden gems that’s worth exploring on your next outdoor adventure.

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Shenipsit Lake

Shenipsit Lake is a beautiful natural lake located in Connecticut. This pristine body of water serves as a public drinking water reservoir while also offering wonderful recreational opportunities. You can enjoy boating, canoeing, and fishing in these peaceful waters.

The lake’s natural beauty makes it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. With its clear waters and scenic surroundings, you’ll find yourself captivated by the tranquil atmosphere. Many visitors come here to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

When you visit Shenipsit Lake, you can spend the day fishing for various species that call these waters home. The lake is well-maintained, making it a favorite spot for both locals and tourists. You might want to bring your camera to capture the stunning views, especially during sunrise or sunset.

Whether you’re planning a family outing or a solo adventure, Shenipsit Lake offers a refreshing retreat. The natural setting provides a perfect backdrop for relaxation and reconnection with nature. You’ll leave feeling refreshed and eager to return.

Rating: 4.6 (42 reviews)
Location: Connecticut

History of Shenipsit Lake

Shenipsit Lake, often called “The Snip” by locals, has a rich past that dates back to Native American times. Originally named Lake Mishenipset, it marked the border between three tribes: the Podunks to the west, the Nipmucks to the east, and the Mohegans to the south.

In the early 1800s, the lake began its transition toward becoming an important water resource. A key moment came in 1834 when mill owners formed the Rockville Manufacturing Company. They purchased Payne’s Mill and the Shenipsit Lake dam, building a three-and-a-half-story structure to support local industry.

By the early 1900s, the lake was a popular recreation spot. You would have seen steamers cruising across its waters, carrying visitors enjoying leisure time at this beautiful natural setting.

The Connecticut Water Company has owned most of the land around the lake since at least 1926. This marked the lake’s shift toward becoming the water storage facility you see today.

Now spanning 522.8 acres, Shenipsit Lake serves as an important reservoir for the Connecticut Water coverage area. When you visit, you’re looking at both a natural lake and a carefully managed water resource that has supported communities for generations.

Ecology and Wildlife

Shenipsit Lake offers a rich ecosystem that supports diverse plant and animal life. The 511-acre freshwater lake provides habitat for numerous species that you can observe during your visit.

Flora and Fauna

The lake and surrounding forest create perfect conditions for wildlife spotting. Bird enthusiasts will be delighted to find that Shenipsit Lake is home to over 174 bird species! You might spot Common Loons gliding across the water or Hooded Mergansers diving for food. Rare sightings include Surf Scoters and Horned Grebes.

The lake itself teems with fish species including:

Calico Bass
Chain Pickerel
Trout
Various other freshwater fish

The shoreline vegetation provides crucial habitat for small mammals and amphibians. As you walk around the lake’s edge, you’ll notice native plants that support this diverse ecosystem and provide food and shelter for wildlife.

Conservation Efforts

The Shenipsit Lake area benefits from ongoing protection measures. The lake serves as a drinking water source, which has led to special safeguards under the Safe Drinking Water Act Amendments of 1996. This assessment evaluated potential threats to water quality and helped establish protective measures.

The nearby Shenipsit State Forest’s 7,170 acres across Ellington, Somers, and Stafford contributes to regional conservation efforts. These protected lands help maintain water quality in the lake and preserve wildlife corridors.

Local conservation groups monitor bird populations and conduct regular species counts. You can participate in citizen science by recording bird sightings through eBird, which already has 379 checklists for this location. These community efforts help track ecosystem health and protect this beautiful natural resource.

Recreational Activities

Shenipsit Lake offers visitors a variety of outdoor activities throughout all four seasons. The recreation program provides opportunities for both water-based fun and land exploration.

Boating and Fishing

The Shenipsit Lake Reservoir Recreation Program welcomes anglers of all ages. You can fish from several designated shoreline areas that provide easy access to the water. These spots are perfect for a relaxing day of casting your line while enjoying the scenic views.

If you prefer fishing from a boat, you’ll need to register your vessel and store it at the designated boat storage area. The 2025 program includes specific guidelines for boat users to help preserve the lake’s water quality. Connecticut Water Company manages this program in cooperation with the Shenipsit Lake Association.

The reservoir is home to various fish species, making it an exciting destination for fishing enthusiasts. Remember to check the current fishing regulations before your visit.

Hiking Trails

The Shenipsit State Forest surrounding the lake features an extensive network of hiking trails for your outdoor adventures. The primary trail is the Shenipsit Trail, which offers breathtaking views of the reservoir and surrounding landscape.

You can explore these paths on foot, mountain bike, or even horseback. The trails vary in difficulty, making them suitable for both beginners and experienced hikers.

During your hike, you’ll encounter diverse plant and animal life native to Connecticut. The changing seasons bring different experiences – from vibrant spring blooms to stunning fall foliage.

Many trails are well-marked and maintained, providing a safe outdoor experience. Hiking here gives you a chance to disconnect from city life and immerse yourself in Connecticut’s natural beauty.