By markcherno on July 29, 2009
If you like mosquitos, swamp water, and a sub-par riding surface, this trail is for you! There are three areas to park along the trail, but only the mid-point of the trail off of East Hartford avenue offers any type of facilities. The southern terminus of this trail also has adequate parking near a historic mill location. From this location, there is a bridge which has steps at either end, so you can not bike directly across. From here, the trail heads North for about a mile, but the surface is rutted with tree roots that really break up the integrity of the tow path. Also, when I travelled the trail at the end of July, the first 1/4-mile had stagnant, scummy water aside the tow path -- not very picturesque. As you proceed toward East Hartford Ave, the trail gets better, and you approach a second bridge that allows you to cross. My hope was that the trail would improve the more North I travelled. However, after managing to cross a third bridge via a single-track path, I arrived at East Hartford Ave, where the trail definitely is suitable for mountain bikers and hikers. The path between here & Church Street (the northern terminus of this trail), passing through Heritage Park, is meandering, rutted with tree roots & rocks, good for mountain bikers & hikers, but not for the casual rider. Also expect to pass through muddy areas and water puddles that came up to the axel on my bike!
I do not recommend this trail except for those looking for a rustic adventure.