How Tall Is Connecticut? Total Distance North to South

It’s surprising how much Connecticut offers in a relatively small state. You’ll find everything from big cities to quaint historic towns to scenic coastlines here. With four distinct seasons, there’s fall leaf peeping to enjoy, beaches to sun yourself at, and skiing for when the snow falls. If you’re wondering how so much can fit in a small state, here is exactly how tall Connecticut is.

Overall Size of Connecticut

Connecticut is the second smallest state that’s part of New England. It is only 70 miles from North to South. It’s easy to reach several states from Connecticut with a relatively short car ride. Massachusetts, New York, and Rhode Island are just a few hours away. The width of Connecticut is 110 miles East to West. It’s only 5,018 square miles in total.

History of Connecticut

Connecticut entered statehood on January 9, 1788, to become the fifth state in America. However, European settlers began to arrive in the area around the 1500s. In the 1630s, English and Dutch trading posts developed in today’s areas called Saybrook and Hartford. Conflicts between settlers and Native peoples led to the Pequot War. This event resulted in the Treaty of Hartford, which led to the creation of the first Native American reservations in North America. 

Connecticut goes by the nickname the “Constitution State.” In 1639, the Connecticut colony adopted the “Fundamental Orders”. Historians view these documents as the first written constitution for a democratic government. Hence, where the nickname came from.

Connecticut also played a significant role in the American Revolution. State representatives helped create the Declaration of Independence, the Articles of Confederation, and the Constitution of the United States.

Geography of Connecticut

Beaches, rivers, rolling hills, and cities — Connecticut has it all. There are 250 miles of shoreline, the Litchfield Hills, and a large amount of open forest. Approximately 60 percent of Connecticut’s land is forest.

The Connecticut River nearly divides the state in half. There are ample opportunities for enjoying nature, especially with a relatively mild climate. The temperature in Connecticut rarely goes above 90 degrees, approximately two weeks of the year on average. Temperatures fall below zero on average one week of the year. However, this temperature variation is only based on previous years, as the climate is shifting, with winters getting warmer and producing less snow in recent years.

There are also several historical towns teeming with colonial architecture, plus numerous large cities that offer culture, dining, and business. For example, New Haven is home to Yale University, plus arguably some of the best pizza around!

Wildlife in Connecticut

As the 14th most forest-covered state, you’ll see ample wildlife in a range of habitats in Connecticut. White-tailed deer are a common sight around the state in both forest and suburban areas. Eastern Grey Squirrels live in forests, parks, and cities. Raccoons, coyotes, bats, and black bears all call Connecticut home. And don’t forget the reptiles. Fourteen species of snakes are native to the state. While most, like the common garter snake, are relatively small and harmless, there are two venomous snakes in the region. Look out for the Northern Copperhead and the Timber Rattlesnake.

Final Thoughts

It’s amazing how much Connecticut has to offer. You can enjoy four seasons of weather, ample outdoor pursuits, the beach lifestyle, and big-city amenities. Plus, the state is packed with history and fascinating colonial architecture. And when you want to get out of town, it’s an easy drive to nearby states. You can’t beat all the options in one relatively small package!