Larkin State Park Trail:
Connecticut
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Description:
Canopied with deciduous trees for most of its 10.4 miles, the Larkin State Park Trail (a.k.a. Larkin Bridle Path) is primarily a wilderness trail, with wooded vistas, wetland views and sparse residential development. Its railroad past began in 1881 with completion of the New York & New England Railroad between western Connecticut and New York. Following bankruptcy in 1894, the New York, New Haven & Hartford Railroad took over the line until 1939. Dr. Charles L. Larkin purchased the corridor and gifted it to the state in 1943 for a bridle trail.

Because it's a bridle trail, equestrians use this trail frequently, so if you're on bike, remember to approach horses slowly and quietly; speak softly and take your cues from their riders. You may need to stop and dismount until they pass, as horses have the right-of-way.

Typical of rail-trails in southwest Connecticut, the route plies a gentle grade across rolling topography, occasionally slicing through rock outcrops or overlooking low-lying areas. The trail's crushed-stone surface is typically firm, especially in the eastern and middle portions. Surface conditions are rougher along the western section, which is rockier and somewhat eroded, making it more suitable for mountain bikes.

Near the trail midpoint at Long Meadow Road, you'll briefly leave state-owned property for a 0.5-mile on-road detour along a privately held stretch. Turn left on Long Meadow Road and right on Towantic Hill Road, then watch for trail access on the left side of the road. The onward trail offers lovely views of the boggy shoreline of Towantic Pond, then passes over wetlands on a causeway.

Near the west end, a short section between State Route 67 and Curt Smith Road is often wet and washouts persist. Hurrican Irene did some damage in 2011. At some of the numerous road crossings, the trail descends or rises steeply to the road, and approaching motorists may not see you; use caution. There are no crosswalks.

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Parking & Trail Access:
To reach the eastern trailhead, take I-84 to Exit 17 and head south on State Route 63. After nearly 2 miles, turn right into the small parking area for Larkin State Bridle Trail. Follow the sign to the trail.

Access from the western terminus is not a viable option, as the trail is difficult to find and there's neither parking nor even room to pull over on the shoulder. Instead, take I-84 to Exit 16 and head 2 miles south on State Route 188/Strongtown Road to a trailhead with limited parking.

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Reviews: [2 trail ratings]
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Trail needs so TLC after this summer's storms.
By bboo60equus in September, 2011
Hurricane Irene and some of this past summer's rain storms have left a mark on this trail. Trees down and trail erosion. Some trees have been cleared from the trail, but there others to be removed. There's a huge sink hole on the Southbury section where the horse farms are. If you're bike riding be careful of the sand and ruts in the trail, also be careful when you pass though the water.
This is a wonderful trail that is in need of some TLC. Is there a trail committee that maintains the Larkin or is the State of CT responsible? If anyone know the answer please post as I'd love to help out. Thanks.
good run for all
By ridnhi in August, 2011
Rode the trail from rt188 to the dam and back. A little over 17 miles on the flip flop. This trail is flat most of the way and should be enjoyable for beginners also. The weather was great and the trail was a blast. Although I did enjoy the 150 foot through the water the rest of the trail was pretty mello. I will surly bring some beginners here to get a taste of biking in the woods. The trail is hard packed and scenic and well worth a 2.5 hr burn.
Great Sunday ride.
By professor awesome in June, 2011
Rode the entire trail from Route 63 in Naugatuck to Southbury and back this passed Sunday (6/19/11). Great ride all the way through. Did it in just under 5 hours, which included 2 breaks for about 20-25 mins each, quite a few short breaks due to a friends knee issues and one stop on the way back when his bike broke.

Some rough sections best suited for mountain bikes with front or full suspension. But doable with most other bikes as long as the rider is careful. Some areas closer to Southbury are a bit overgrown, so make sure to check for ticks after passing through.

Nice views throughout and overall a very nice ride.
Trail Facts
Trail End Points: Kettletown Road (Southbury) to Whittemore Glen State Park (Naugatuck)
Counties: New Haven
Trail Length: 10.4 miles
Trail Category: Rail-Trail
Trail Surfaces: Crushed Stone, Gravel, Dirt, Cinder
Trail Activities: Horseback Riding, Mountain Biking, Walking, Cross Country Skiing
TrailLink ID: 6015458

Related Links
Guidebook: Learn more about other New England rail-trails in RTC's New England Guidebook.