Glastonbury Warns Against Cliff Jumping At Local Park

GLASTONBURY, CT — Glastonbury officials are warning visitors against cliff jumping at Cotton Hollow Preserve after the town became aware of social media videos showing people engaging in the prohibited activity.

Town officials said Thursday that jumping from cliffs or rock ledges into the water at the 500 Hopewell Road park is prohibited and "extremely dangerous."

Visitors are being asked to follow posted rules and signs and to discourage others from cliff jumping at the preserve.

The 80-acre Cotton Hollow Preserve includes woodlands along Roaring Brook and is intended primarily for passive recreation, including hiking and fishing.

It is open to Glastonbury residents and non-residents from sunrise until one hour before sunset.

Town regulations prohibit visitors from climbing boulders, cliffs, or trees and from jumping into any stream or pond within the preserve.

The town warns that the property includes steep slopes, rocky cliffs, slippery areas and other potentially challenging terrain.

Swimming, bathing and wading are undertaken at a visitor's own risk, according to town regulations.

Glastonbury does not sponsor swimming at the preserve or assume responsibility for the activity.

Other prohibited activities include drinking alcohol, smoking or substance use, picnicking and cookouts, camping, open fires and playing music audible to others. Pets must remain leashed or tethered.

Cotton Hollow also has historical significance.

The area once contained grist mills, sawmills, iron foundries and a cotton mill during the 18th and 19th centuries.

Ruins of a cotton mill built in 1814 remain at the site.

The town is working with local organizations to preserve and restore the historic mill walls.

Officials asked visitors to follow the regulations to protect both public safety and the preserve's natural environment.

To see videos of what is prohibited at the park in Glastonbury, click on this link.