Connecticut Valley Railroad State Park Trail
Connecticut Valley Railroad State Park Trail
The best traffic-free bike rides in Connecticut Valley Railroad State Park Trail
4.8
(27)
183
riders
13
rides
Touring cycling in Connecticut Valley Railroad State Park Trail explores the lower Connecticut River Valley, characterized by mixed forests, rocky ridges, and paths along the Connecticut River. The region's terrain includes serene meadows and riverfronts, with some routes offering elevation gain to viewpoints. Many routes utilize former railroad beds, providing relatively gentle gradients suitable for various fitness levels. The trail network offers diverse landscapes for no traffic touring cycling routes.
Best no traffic touring cycling routes in Connecticut Valley Railroad…
Last updated: May 13, 2026
3
riders
12.6km
01:12
150m
160m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
riders
16.3km
01:34
210m
210m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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8
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
21
riders
64.4km
05:20
430m
430m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(5)
40
riders
20.7km
01:54
200m
200m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Connecticut Valley Railroad State Park Trail
Tips from the Community
The Air Line State Park Trail in Connecticut is a rail trail and linear state park that is a part of the East Coast Greenway. There are several sections including: South (25 miles from East Hampton to Windham), North (21 miles from Windham to Putnam), Thompson addition (6.6 miles from Thompson to the Massachusetts state line), and an additional 3.6-mile spur to Colchester. Recognized as a national recreation trail by the U.S. Department of the Interior in 2002, it offers scenic routes for hiking and biking. This southern section of the trail near East Hampton is a gravel crushed trail that is great to ride on its own, or to access singeltrack in the nearby Salmon River Forest.
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From here you can take the Colchester Spur Trail. The area surrounding the trail played a small but fascinating role in the American Revolution. Look for markers mentioning skirmish sites and troop movements.
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The Air Line Trail is a paved 50-mile multi-use trail that connects the cities of Thompson and Portland. This trail is open to walkers, bikes, and even horses.
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Birch Hill Road Open Space West is a nature reserve southeast of Grayville Falls, situated right next to the Air Line State Park Trail. Undeveloped, forested land covers the area between the town's many residential developments, adding to the rural character of this beautiful area.
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This park runs alongside the Willimantic River, providing scenic views of the water. On the opposite side, there are train tracks where you can occasionally observe interesting carts passing by.
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Air Line State Park Trail is a gravel crushed trail that runs on an old rail bed. It's a great trail to ride on its own or to access singeltrack in the Salmon River Forest.
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Loose gravel that is very easy for road bike tires. Very quiet and it dead ends after the trail crosses Depot Hill Road
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Completely gravel but mostly compacted. Loose rocks in some areas.
2
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no traffic touring cycling routes are available in Connecticut Valley Railroad State Park Trail?
There are 12 dedicated no traffic touring cycling routes available in the Connecticut Valley Railroad State Park Trail region. These routes offer a range of difficulties, from easy to challenging, ensuring options for various skill levels.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Connecticut Valley Railroad State Park Trail?
The Connecticut Valley Railroad State Park Trail is particularly stunning in autumn, renowned for its vibrant fall foliage. Spring also offers pleasant temperatures and blooming flora, making both seasons ideal for touring cycling. The trails often utilize former railroad beds, providing relatively gentle gradients suitable for various fitness levels throughout these seasons.
Are there any family-friendly no traffic touring cycling routes?
Yes, several routes are suitable for families. The region offers paths with gentle gradients, often on former railroad beds, which are great for a relaxed family outing. For an easy option, consider the Former Lyman Viaduct loop from East Hampton, which is just under 9 km long.
What kind of terrain and elevation can I expect on these routes?
The routes in Connecticut Valley Railroad State Park Trail explore diverse terrain, including mixed forests, rocky ridges, and picturesque paths along the Connecticut River. Many trails utilize former railroad beds, offering relatively gentle gradients. While some routes are easy, others, like the Former Lyman Viaduct – Air Line Trail loop from East Hampton, include more significant elevation gains, providing a moderate to difficult challenge.
Are there any circular no traffic touring cycling routes?
Yes, many of the no traffic touring cycling routes in the Connecticut Valley Railroad State Park Trail are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. An example is the Jacobs Peak loop from Timberlane Preserve, which offers a moderate 16 km ride.
What attractions or natural features can I see along the routes?
Cyclists can enjoy serene views of meadows, forests, and the Connecticut River waterfront. The trails often pass through nature preserves. While the Essex Steam Train & Riverboat operates in the area, the cycling trails themselves offer scenic natural beauty and historical points of interest, such as those found within Gillette Castle State Park, which features views of the castle and the Connecticut River.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about the Connecticut Valley Railroad State Park Trail?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from 37 ratings. Reviewers often praise the tranquil backdrop of riverside paths, the well-maintained trails suitable for cycling, and the blend of scenic natural beauty with historical points of interest.
Are there options for longer, more challenging no traffic touring cycling routes?
Absolutely. For those seeking a longer and more challenging ride, the Former Lyman Viaduct – Air Line Trail loop from East Hampton covers over 64 km with significant elevation gain, making it a difficult but rewarding option for experienced touring cyclists.
Where can I find parking for these no traffic touring cycling routes?
While specific parking locations vary by trailhead, many routes in the Connecticut Valley Railroad State Park Trail area, especially those utilizing former railroad beds, typically have designated parking areas at their access points. It's advisable to check the individual route details on komoot for precise parking information before your ride.
Are there any easy no traffic touring cycling routes for beginners?
Yes, there are several easy options perfect for beginners or those looking for a relaxed ride. The Former Lyman Viaduct loop from East Hampton is an easy 8.9 km route with minimal elevation, providing a great introduction to touring cycling in the park.
What are the typical surface conditions of the no traffic touring cycling routes?
Many routes in the Connecticut Valley Railroad State Park Trail utilize former railroad beds, which often provide relatively gentle gradients and well-maintained surfaces. While some segments may be paved, others might be gravel or packed dirt, offering a varied experience suitable for touring bicycles.
Most popular routes in Connecticut Valley Railroad State Park Trail
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