About this spot
Saugatuck Falls Natural Area sits on Route 53 in Redding, across from John Read Middle School; a footbridge over the Saugatuck River leads to the Old Field and Upper Falls trails. The pool below the falls, known locally as Falls Hole, is a deep woodland plunge with an overhanging rock ledge on one side and hemlock woods on the other — generations of local kids swam and jumped here, and recent visitors report people still do. Swimming is officially prohibited because the pool feeds Bridgeport's water supply reservoir, so treat any jump as unsanctioned. Current and depth shift noticeably after rain, and the ledge rock is slick when wet, so check footing and water depth before jumping.
Safety first. Cliff jumping is inherently dangerous and can cause serious injury or death. Conditions — water depth, submerged hazards, and access — change constantly. CliffScout is community-sourced reference information, not a guarantee a spot is safe. Always assess the conditions yourself before jumping, and never jump where you're unsure. You assume all risk.