Airline State Park Trail - North

Rail-Trail

State: CT
Length: 27 miles
Surface: Ballast, Dirt

The Air Line State Park Trail – North is largely frequented by equestrians, hikers, cross-country skiers and mountain bikers. Start at the Goodwin State Forest Conservation Center off Route 6 in Hampton for the best option. From here to Route 44 in Pomfret, the Air Line Trail is quite scenic. The trail stretches farther north and east all the way to the borders of Rhode Island and Massachusetts.
The trail is in two segments: one is from Willimantic north to Kennedy Drive in Putnam; the other picks up again north of Putnam at Thompson Road near the cemetery and I-395.
At its southern terminus in Willimantic, you can pick up the Air Line State Park Trail – South by taking South Street over the river and heading west (right) on Pleasant Street. The road changes to Kingsley and soon crosses the southern section of the Air Line State Park Trail. At the northern end in Goodwin State Forest, you can continue on the trail into Massachusetts, where the trail becomes the Southern New England Trunk Line Trail.

Airline State Park Trail - South

Rail-Trail

State: CT
Length: 22.40 miles
Surface: Asphalt, Crushed Stone

Air Line State Park Trail showcases the engineering behind the Air Line Railroad, laid down through this hilly region in 1873 as a direct route between Boston and New York. As its name implies, the tracks ran flat and straight, like 'a line in the air.'" The Air Line employed the finest trains of the day, featuring the Pullman Palace Car, marketed as the White Train for its luxurious white-and-gold decor.
Frequent rider Rudyard Kipling once wrote of the line:
Without a jar, or roll, or antic Without a stop to Willimantic & Rain nor snow ne'er stops its flight It makes New York at nine each night
The south section of the trail stretches from East Hampton to Willimantic, linking midway with a spur south to Colchester. From Willimantic, the trail continues north and east, as the Air Line State Park Trail – North, all the way to Rhode Island.
Roundtrip cyclists should start in East Hampton. If you forgot to fill your water bottle at home, you can do so in the first 0.5 mile from one of the small waterfalls, created when railroad crews blasted Bishops Cut through solid rock. For the next 3 miles, you'll cross the Rapallo and Lyman viaducts. Built in the 1870s, each spans more than 1,000 feet, the latter soaring more than 150 feet above the valley floor. In 1913 crews reinforced the viaducts with rock and sediment to support heavier trains. Visible from trailside benches, the top corner of each span pokes out through the fill.
Onward the trail soars over boisterous, rushing streams, smaller brooks and the broad Blackledge River before crossing a causeway through Raymond Brook Marsh. Watch for signs of beaver.
An eighth of a mile from a trailhead and large parking area on State Route 85, the 3.4-mile Colchester Spur Rail-Trail joins the main Air Line State Park Trail – South. Though a tad rougher, the spur offers an enjoyable ride through hemlock woods. You'll soon cross SR 85 and eventually emerge at an undeveloped trailhead anchored by th

Arkwright Riverwalk

Rail-Trail

State: RI
Length: 1 miles
Surface: Dirt, Woodchips

The Arkwright Riverwalk, founded on a former rail bed purchased from Penn Central Railroad, is located in Coventry, a rural central Rhode Island town that was built around textile mills. The one-mile trail includes a wooden boardwalk, but is primarily surfaced with dirt and follows the north branch the Pawtuxet River. Future plans include a connection to the Phenix-Harris Riverwalk, just over a mile away.

Branford Trolley Trail

Rail-Trail

State: CT
Length: 0.50 miles
Surface: Concrete, Crushed Stone, Gravel

The Branford Trolley Trail is essentially a long footbridge occupying an old bridge along the route of an abandoned trolley track. The bridge links nature trails on both sides of the water through a marsh habitat that is home to many shorebirds, fish, mammals and invertebrates.

The trail is part of the growing Shoreline Greenway Trail that will one day stretch 25 miles through four towns along Connecticut's southern coast.

Charter Oak Greenway

State: CT
Length: 9.80 miles
Surface: Asphalt

The Charter Oak Greenway is a paved, multi-use trail connecting parks and the Captain John Bissell Greenway in East Hartford with residential and commercial areas. The trail runs for 9.8 miles between Forbes Street in East Hartford and Porter Street in Bolton. About 0.5 mile of the trail is on-road.
The trail provides seasonal access to restrooms, picnic areas, athletic facilities, tennis court and playground equipment at Charter Oak Park. Bike lockers are available at the intersection of Route 83 and Charter Oak Street, as well as at the Spencer Street commuter lot. The trail has some steep hills.

Cheney Rail Trail

Rail-Trail

State: CT
Length: 1 miles
Surface: Dirt, Grass, Gravel, Woodchips

The Cheney Rail Trail follows part of the corridor of the South Manchester Railroad, built by the Cheney brothers in 1869. The line was a 2.5-mile spur from the main Hartford, Providence, and Fishkill Railroad and it went to the Cheney silk mills, transporting passengers, silk goods and raw materials. This historic railroad was known as the longest privately owned passenger-and-freight railroad, as well as one of the shortest in America.
The Manchester Land Conservation Trust (MLCT) owns about 5.7 acres of the rail bed (1 linear mile). The trail is mostly shaded and a pleasant walk any time of the year. The terrain is fairly flat, unpaved with grass and dirt under foot, and includes a small section with stairs (at Middle Turnpike W.). The trail also crosses two streets, so watch for traffic.
MLCT leads a few walks each year with commentary on the history of the railroad and the silk mills. Truman Cowles Parklet has a small parking area, picnic table and kiosk.

Chicopee River Canal Rail Trail

Rail-Trail

State: MA
Length: 0.21 miles
Surface: Asphalt

The Chicopee Center Canal Walk offers a short pleasant route in Chicopee, a small city on the outskirts of Springfield in southern Massachusetts. The pathway closely follows the slow-moving canal and is lined with tall elm, maple and sycamore trees. Signs along the way tell the history of the canal and benches provide places to stop and enjoy the scenery. Currently, the walkway is just over 1,000 feet along a former industrial railway, but progress is being made to stretch the trail further east to the Uniroyal Property at Oak Street, a 28-acre manufacturing site dating back to the late 1800s. From there, the trail will continue through the Chicopee Falls community to Deady Bridge (Broadway Street). The extension would add access to the city library and Szot Park.

Columbia Greenway Rail Trail

Rail-Trail

State: MA
Length: 3.20 miles
Surface: Asphalt

The Columbia Greenway is the name chosen for Westfield's Rail Trail. The trail when completed will extend from the Westfield River to the Southwick town line. The Columbia Greenway will traverse Downtown Westfield on an elevated line with bridge crossings of all streets in the Downtown. The trail will tie into the Southwick trail that extends to the Connecticut state Line and becomes the Farmington Valley Greenway extending to New Haven, Connecticut. At a future date the Columbia Greenway will extend northward from the Westfield River to eventually tie into the Northampton Bike Trail. The Columbia Greenway project utilizes the rail line bisecting the downtown to convey a bicycle/pedestrian corridor connecting Depot Square, north of the Westfield River, the multiple attractions of the downtown and residential areas to the south

Connecticut Riverwalk and Bikeway

Rail-Trail

State: MA
Length: 3.70 miles
Surface: Asphalt

The Connecticut River Walk and Bikeway is currently 3.7 miles long as it runs south from the Chicopee town line to the South End Bridge. Unique features of the trail include its path alongside an active train line, making it a "rail-with-trail," and its passing in close proximity to the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. For rail enthusiasts, there are two points along the trail that offer overhead views of passing trains: the bridge that spans the tracks from the Hall of Fame property and the trail bridge that spans the CSX tracks just north of the Memorial Bridge.

Derby Greenway

State: CT
Length: 1.85 miles
Surface: Asphalt

The Derby Greenway runs between Division Street and Main Street, paralleling the Naugatuck and Housatonic rivers. The trail runs on top of a flood control dyke for the rivers; a portion of it goes across O'Sullivan's Island. One of the centerpieces of the trail is the footbridge on the Housatonic side from which you get great views of the river.
The Derby Greenway will eventually be part of the larger Naugatuck Valley Greenway. The trail will eventually cross the Naugatuck River to Shelton. In addition, the town of Ansonia is currently designing sections that will be linked to the Derby Greenway.
The trail is open from dawn to dusk.

Farmington Canal Heritage Trail

Rail-Trail

State: CT
Length: 40 miles
Surface: Asphalt, Cinder, Crushed Stone, Grass, Gravel

Running north from the Yale University campus in New Haven through the heart of Connecticut, the multi-use Farmington Canal Heritage Trail, when completed will stretch uninterrupted more than 80 miles from New Haven to Northampton, Massachusetts. As of summer 2011, 72% is completed in CT and 47% is completed in MA. Only a few small pieces need to be completed in New Haven, and there is a 4.7-mile gap in Cheshire.
The largest remaining gap includes northern Southington, all of Plainville and southern Farmington: 9.1 miles. You can now ride from Farmington to Westfield, MA on 27 continuous miles of paved off-road trail. The 6.3-mile segment consisting of all of Southwick, MA was completed in 2010. Only Westfield and Southwick are left to go to connect with the miles of trails father north.
The trail follows the corridor of the defunct Farmington Canal, New England's onetime longest canal. Completed in 1835, the waterway stretched 87 miles from New Haven to Northampton, boasting 28 locks and three aqueducts. Traces of the canal remain throughout the Farmington Valley. Most notable is Lock 12, a trailside museum in Cheshire that centers on the restored lock.
Southern Section
Anchoring the trail's southern terminus is Yale's Malone Engineering Building, designed by prominent architect Caesar Pelli. A landscaped setting and reproduced streetlamps lend atmosphere to this asphalt urban path. There is no designated trail parking, but on-street or garage parking is available.
The Hamden to Cheshire section is completed and extends 15.1 miles, ending at Cornwall Avenue. Woods soon line the asphalt path, and you'll cross bridge after bridge over a meandering stream. To learn about the corridor's canal and railroad roots, pause to read trailside historical markers and watch for the old brick depot and adjacent freight house just past the second parking area. Approaching Cheshire, you'll reach the aforementioned Lock 12 and keeper's house, now a hist

Farmington River Trail

Rail-Trail

State: CT
Length: 14.90 miles
Surface: Asphalt, Cinder, Crushed Stone, Dirt

The Farmington River Trail is built upon the former Central New England Railroad corridor and runs between the Farmington Canal Heritage Trail near Tunxis Meade Park and the Simsbury town line. A short disconnected section of trail extends between Bushy Hill Road to Hopmeadow Street, paralleling Village Rd./West St./Rt 167. The two segments can be linked by taking Stratton Brook State Park Trail, with a on-road section along Town Forest Road, from Stratton Brook Road, at the south end of the park.

Harlem Valley Rail Trail

Rail-Trail

State: NY
Length: 14.40 miles
Surface: Asphalt

The Harlem Valley Rail Trail provides a scenic ride through rolling farm fields and dense woods on the bed of the New York and Harlem Railroad that ran from New York City to Chatham, New York. The rail-trail has been built in segments, and there is still work to be done to open all 46 miles of the planned trail. For now you can take in two segments, which total nearly 15 miles, and get a good sense of how sweet the future is for this rail-trail.
The southern end of the trail begins at the Metro North Railroad Station in Wassaic, New York. It is possible, during non-rush hours and on weekends, to board a Metro North train in Grand Central Station and in a little more than two hours be peddling or walking along this rail-trail. As the trail points north for nearly 11 miles to Millerton, it passes through a pastoral scene. Farmland stretches before and around you, followed by red-cedar scrubland and beaver ponds. In Amenia, the trailhead parking lot is on the site of the former Barton House, a large hotel that was frequented by business people and vacationers traveling from New York City.
Several railroad stations on this line have been restored: Sharon Station is now a private residence located off the trail in the town of North East. Millerton's three stations have been restored and today house local businesses. North of Coleman Station the trail crosses six reconstructed railroad bridges.
The railroad builders tamed the area's rolling terrain, and created a level corridor, by blasting through rock and building the rail bed up from the land adjacent to the corridor for a "pyramiding" effect. In several stretches, north of Route 61, the trail's higher elevation on steep embankments&$151in some places dropping 50 feet—provides spectacular views of the surrounding farmland. Indian Mountain, straddling the border of New York and Connecticut, is to the east. Traveling through a series of deep rock cuts, you will feel the temperature drop several degrees

Hop River State Park Trail

Rail-Trail

State: CT
Length: 15.60 miles
Surface: Crushed Stone, Dirt, Gravel

The Hop River State Park Trail is one of Connecticut's top rail-trails. Narrow cuts and a lush tree canopy make for enjoyable visits year-round. Most of the 15.6-mile route from the Manchester–Vernon town line to Hop River Road follows a crushed stone surface. From the town line east to Washington Street, the trail is mostly forested. At Church and Phoenix streets the trail branches north and is sometimes called the Rockville Spur or the Vernon Rails-to-Trails.
From the intersection continuing east on the Hop River Trail, the trail climbs gradually for a few miles past impressive rock outcrops. Beyond the Bolton Notch parking lot, the trail passes beneath State Route 44 and US 6, threads a narrow rock cut then descends several miles through thick woods. Past Steeles Crossing Road, US 6 comes into view on your left, but not so close as to break the mood. Keep watch for small waterfalls like the one near Burnap Brook Road.
A new covered bridge over State Route 316 is fabulous—and was worth the 10-year wait!
Eventually you pass beneath US 6 through a 100-foot lighted tunnel. Another mile brings you to Parker Bridge Road. Another mile brings you to Parker Bridge Road. The trail continues east toward Willimantic with one section of stone dust and the rest manageable but slightly bumpy dirt. After going under the US 6 bypass, the trail continues along the Hop and Willimantic rivers to end at a spur off Flanders Road.

Housatonic Rail-Trail in Trumbull (Pequonnock Valley Greenway)

Rail-Trail

State: CT
Length: 5 miles
Surface: Asphalt, Cinder, Crushed Stone

The Housatonic Rail-Trail in Trumble, a.k.a., the Pequonnock Valley Greenway, offers a shady respite from suburban Trumbull, this fairly flat trail overlooks the winding Pequonnock River for much of its 3.4 miles. Rapids and distinctive rock outcrops add interest. The trail begins on the railroad corridor, strays from it, then returns to emerge at Old Mine Park.
The trail starts at Tait Road with an asphalt entryway up a short hill. From the signboard near Whitney Avenue to the Monroe town line, the trail is paved with asphalt. The segment through the Pequonnock River Valley has a smooth stone dust surface. Because Route 25 crosses the original railroad right-of-way, there is a short hill to climb in Parlor Rock Park (an early 20th-century amusement area) to access the wooden bridge under Route 25.
Through Old Mine Park, the trail parallels the park entry road. (Note: Trummbull restricts parking to residents and issues tickets to vehicles without a Trumball parking sticker.) Use caution when crossing busy Route 111/Monroe Turnpike.
Shortly after Route 111, the trail splits: the original trail, which is a rough dirt and gravel surface, continues straight. A newer paved trail involves a climb, bears right and ends just before the Victorinox property in Monroe. From Victorinox, turn left and cross through the parking lot. Just after crossing a bridge, turn left on the dirt surface to resume the trail to Maple Drive. To continue on the Monroe segment of the rail-trail, follow Maple Drive to Purdy Hill Road; turn right and go a short distance. The trail continues on the left across from the animal shelter.

Housatonic Valley Rail-Trail in Monroe

Rail-Trail

State: CT
Length: 4.20 miles
Surface: Asphalt, Crushed Stone

The Housatonic Rail-Trail in Monroe is a northern continuation of the Trumbull segment of the rail-trail. Locals refer to it as the Monroe Housatonic Railbed Trail. The 4.3-mile trail is largely forested and is a convenient bike route to William E. Wolfe Park. Visiting rail-trail users also gravitate around the park, which centers on Great Hollow Lake's attractive sand beach and swimming area, restrooms and picnic tables. Non-motorized boating is permitted on the 16-acre lake, and a paved pedestrian-only walking path circles its shoreline.
The Housatonic trailhead is accessible via the entrance road to the lake, just off the left shoulder at a bend in the road. You'll need to purchase a day-use sticker to park here. The rail-trail's crushed stone surface is generally compact enough even for wheelchair use.
Watch for traces of the Housatonic Railroad, one of New England's first rail lines, which carried passengers and freight between Monroe and Bridgeport. The most notable remnant is a stone-arch bridge, on the Connecticut List of Historic Places. Also note the drill holes amid cuts blasted through solid rock for the rail corridor.
The rail-trail crosses area roads several times and includes a short on-road detour at the stone-arch bridge near the trail midpoint. You'll veer through a residential cul-de-sac then turn left and follow Pepper Street for 0.25 mile before rejoining the trail. At the 4-mile mark, you'll cross Pepper Street for the last time. After another 0.25 mile, you'll reach trail's end at a large dirt pile on the Newtown town line.

Hyde Park Trail

State: NY
Length: 10 miles
Surface: Dirt

The Hyde Park Trail is a 10-mile system connecting national historic sites, town parks and nature preserves in Hyde Park, New York. The trail connects the national historic sites of Vanderbilt Mansion, Home of Franklin D. Roosevelt, and Eleanor Roosevelt ("Val-Kill"). The Hyde Park Trail is the first designated section of the Hudson River Valley Greenway Trail.
In addition to this primary trail, other nearby loop trails include the Winnakee Nature Preserve, Hackett Hill Park and Pinewoods Park. For maps and other information, visit http://www.hydeparkny.us/Recreation/Trails/.
Future connections include a proposed trail south along the Poughkeepsie waterfront and north to Norrie State Park.
Bicycles are permitted on Roosevelt Farm Lane only (connecting the Home of FDR with Val-Kill) from March through November. For a brochure or trail map, contact:
Hyde Park Recreation Department 845-229-8086.

Kress Family Trail

Rail-Trail

State: CT
Length: 2.50 miles
Surface: Dirt

The Kress Family Trail follows an old rail bed of the former Shepaug Railroad, which winds along the Shepaug River. The flat, 2.5-mile trail is popular with cross-country skiers and snowshoers in winter, while hikers enjoy the trail during the rest of the year.
The trail links with other trails in the Golden Harvest, Erbacher and River Road preserves, which together with Orzech Farm Preserve comprise nearly 600 contiguous acres.

Larkin State Park Trail

Rail-Trail

State: CT
Length: 10.40 miles
Surface: Cinder, Crushed Stone, Dirt, Gravel

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.

Manhan Rail-Trail

Rail-Trail

State: MA
Length: 9 miles
Surface: Asphalt

The Manhan Rail Trail wends its way between Easthampton and Northampton, with a spur trail leading out The Oxbow near Mt. Tom. Easthampton is a typical New England factory town brimming with commerce and community, as well as historical and natural sites galore. Located in the Pioneer Valley of western Massachusetts, the 9-mile trail follows two former railroad corridors: New Haven Railroad's Canal Division and Boston & Maine Railroad's Mt. Tom Branch. These lines used to compete for business from the thriving textile mills, but by the 1970s, changes in environmental laws and relocation of the industry to southern states led to a decline in manufacturing and subsequently the rail.
Starting from South Street, the trail is characterized by a forested landscape, which makes for a cool, shady journey. (There are plans to extend the trail south from here to Coleman Road in Southampton.) About 0.5 mile from the trailhead an underpass provides student commuters access to the private Northampton Williston School. This part of the Manhan trail passes behind residential areas; entrances to the trail from neighborhood streets will give you a sense of the rail-trail's popularity.
At 0.9 mile, you'll find trailhead parking and a water fountain on your right, followed soon after by the colorful Manhan Rail Trail Millennium Mural. The colorful example of public art stands opposite an old train depot.
Crossing Ferry Street in Easthampton's business district, the trail splits; the right spur heads due east on the old Boston & Maine corridor, soon opening up to a spectacular view of a Connecticut River tributary. Old mill buildings flank the trail to the left. On the right you'll find a skateboard and basketball park with picnic tables. Just past the park, you'll find additional trail parking and access. The trail passes more old mill buildings before reaching a scenic overlook of The Oxbow in the Connecticut River. This stretch keeps birders busy. Off to the right is the

Mass Central Rail Trail

Rail-Trail

State: MA
Length: 29 miles
Surface: Crushed Stone, Dirt, Grass

A 104 mile rail line was shattered by hurricane in 1938. Now, more than 60 years later, dedicated volunteers in 33 communities are working to reconnect it. Instead of trains there will be cross-country skiers, bicyclists, hikers, and joggers.

It won't be easy. While much of the old railway is passable to a dedicated hiker, the ownership is less clear. The railway has faded so far from memory that many maps don't even show the former route. A number of the bridges were torn down for scrap. Some of the land was sold, and neighboring landowners in other areas took advantage of the situation to build swimming pools, backyards, parking lots and other structures.

Despite the obstacles, though, the Mass Central Rail Trail continues to be developed and several sections, totaling 29 miles, are now complete.

Middlebury Greenway

Rail-Trail

State: CT
Length: 4.40 miles
Surface: Asphalt

The delightful asphalt Middlebury Greenway winds 4.4 miles through the residential community of Middlebury, connecting businesses, parks and neighborhoods. The popular trail offers residents an off-road option for running errands and welcomes car-weary travelers on nearby Interstate 84 who wish to stretch their legs in a convenient and comfortable setting. While State Route 64 parallels the greenway for its entire length, the road won't lessen your enjoyment.
Tracing a Connecticut Company trolley line that first operated in 1908, the trail follows the contours of the land, making it hillier and more winding than a typical rail-trail. As you make your way along its route, try to imagine the open-air trolley cars bringing holidaymakers from Waterbury to Middlebury's Lake Quassapaug resorts. Unlike rail lines with a single stop in town, this state-of-the-art trolley line brought riders to the very doorstep of local homes and businesses.
If you're taking the trail out and back, travel east to west for an easier downhill return. Parking on the east end is also more convenient. The initial stretch is an in-town trail passing local businesses. You're likely to see people running errands on foot and by bicycle. Farther west you'll come upon two small, nicely landscaped parks. Pause on a bench to catch your breath or meet a friend.
Alternating a course between woods and residential areas, the trail continues 2 miles to Meadowview Park, a community park with sports fields, picnic tables, a water fountain and public restrooms. Approaching the trail's west end, you'll overlook spring-fed Lake Quassapaug and its sandy beach, and pass Quassy Amusement Park, an early destination for the trolley. The trolley closed in the 1930s when visitors began driving their cars to the resort, but the park remains popular and is known for large clam bakes and family fun. Its carousel and roller rink predate World War II.
The trail ends at an access road leading to a first-class

Moosup Valley State Park Trail

Rail-Trail

State: CT
Length: 5.80 miles
Surface: Ballast, Crushed Stone, Dirt, Grass, Gravel, Sand

This 5.8-mile trail is part of the planned East Coast Greenway, an off-road path that will eventually run from Calais, Maine, to Key West, Florida. The Moosup Valley State Park Trail will connect with Rhode Island's Washington Secondary Bike Path that stretches from the state border east toward Providence.
The Moosup Valley State Park Trail follows the bed of the former New Haven Railroad, which operated this line from 1898 until 1968, when it began pulling up tracks. Wide and flat, the trail is suitable for riders of all levels though it is not pristinely manicured. Its surface is largely hard-packed dirt, but this varies, and the trail is not recommended for road bikes. A hybrid or a mountain bike would be ideal.
Head out on this bucolic, scenic trail and you'll feel as though you have left civilization far behind. Much of the trail follows the Moosup River on its course past rural Moosup and Sterling on into Rhode Island. The trail begins with a large, re-decked trestle bridge. After 1 mile, a second bridge, as well as a dam and falls, come into view, and the trail becomes increasingly rural and wooded. You'll spot a quarry to the right, around the 2-mile point.
There's no clear line of demarcation between the end of the Moosup Valley State Park Trail and the start of the Coventry Greenway, the path's name once it enters Rhode Island. Determine your own best turnaround point.
If you plan to use the trail in autumn or early winter, beware that hunting is popular here. In season, you're advised to wear blaze orange. (Note: Hunting is not permitted on Sundays.)

Naugatuck River Greenway (Beacon Falls)

State: CT
Length: 0.30 miles
Surface: Asphalt

The Naugatuck River Greenway segment in Beacon Falls offers a short, but scenic route along the river that is paved and well-lighted. Just north of the trail's end at the Depot Street Bridge, lies Volunteer Park, a pleasant place to stop and take in the views. The trail will one day continue 4.3 miles through the town, including a section in the Naugatuck State Forest. The entire greenway is proposed to span more than 40 miles from Torrington to Derby in western Connecticut.

Norwottuck Rail-Trail (Francis P. Ryan Section)

Rail-Trail

State: MA
Length: 4.90 miles
Surface: Asphalt

In central Massachusetts, the Norwottuck Rail-Trail (formerly the Northampton Bikeway) runs between New South Street in Northampton and the neighborhood north of Look Memorial Park in Florence. Whether you start your trip from either trailhead or from one of the many informal access points along the route, this well-maintained rail-trail is perfect for a fresh-air outing in a relaxed setting. It also serves as a vital commuter route, offering a convenient connection between the residential areas of Florence and downtown Northampton.
From the end of State Street in vibrant downtown Northampton, the trail leads west through residential and light commercial areas, passing several B&Bs. If time permits, check out Main Street's architectural jewels, such as the Academy of Music and the county courthouse, as well as its many boutiques, restaurants, pubs and coffee shops. En route to Florence, forested stretches add to the trail's attractive, tranquil nature.
You'll emerge at 150-acre Look Memorial Park, which provides ample paid parking. You'll also find picnic tables, a swimming pool, a playground, restrooms, tennis courts and paddleboat rentals. To use one of the picnic tables, you'll need to purchase a permit from the visitor center.
Across King Street on the east end, you can continue on the Norwottuck Rail Trail Mass Central Section.

Norwottuck Rail-Trail (Mass Central Section)

Rail-Trail

State: MA
Length: 10 miles
Surface: Asphalt

Stretching east from Northampton, the 10-mile Mass Central Section of the Norwottuck Rail-Trail connects the towns of Northampton, Hadley and Amherst. Part of the Connecticut River Greenway State Park, the route takes in a variety of landscapes, from rural farmland to residential neighborhoods and light industrial districts.
You'll set out across New England's longest river, the Connecticut, on a magnificent 1,492-foot iron bridge. (Head west to pick up the Francis P. Ryan Section of the Norwottuck Rail-Trail. Pay attention to the detour signs, which guide you to a safe track crossing until an underpass can be built.) This span parallels Calvin Coolidge Bridge, named for the mayor of Northampton who would become the country's 30th president. Once you're across the river, look for Mount Holyoke rising in the distance. Approaching Hadley, the trail parallels State Route 9 through farmland. In town, you'll pass the former Hadley railroad station and wind through historic Hadley Commons, where farm animals once grazed.
About 3 miles along, you'll reach a bicycle and inline skate rental shop beside an ice cream and smoothie bar. A half mile farther, just past State Route 9 underpass, is Pete's Drive-In, which offers a rest area and another chance for ice cream. Beyond it lies Hampshire Mall; shoppers will delight in direct bicycle access to the stores. After the mall, the trail continues until the Belchertown trailhead, at which point you come to State Route 116. Here you'll have an opportunity to hop off the trail for a short trek north into Amherst, home to the University of Massachusetts and Amherst College.
Just shy of downtown, a connector trail leads to the 2-mile UMass bikeway, a student commuter path. The onward Norwottuck Rail-Trail crosses beneath SR 116 to the Station Road trailhead and Amherst College on the left. Station Road used to mark the end

Old Mine Railroad Trail

Rail-Trail

State: NY
Length: 2.20 miles
Surface: Dirt

Fahnestock State Park is a relatively undiscovered gems in the New York State Park System. Located a few miles east of Cold Spring Village on Rt. 301 (Main Street), the park jurisdiction was recently expanded to include almost 10,000 acres of undeveloped land with an extensive network of trails maintained by the state and the New York-New Jersey trail conference. Ridges running from southwest to northeast dominate the terrain. Between them are several lakes and ponds and numerous wetlands and streams. Although there are occasional steep sections, there are no long or difficult climbs, and for the most part grades are moderate. The network of trails in the park makes it possible to plan a great variety of outings, ranging from easy rambles for families with children to strenuous all day hikes. Pick up a box lunch and enjoy the back country experience less than 60 miles from one of the largest cities in the world. Just remember to pack out what you pack in so others may enjoy the unblemished scenery. Trails are blazed with round plastic discs of various colors or rectangular painted marks. A double blaze, one above the other, indicates a turn with the upper blaze offset in the direction of the turn. A triple blaze in a triangle pattern indicates the start or end of a trail. The trails are restricted to day use only. Camping or making fires is not permitted. No vehicles are permitted on any hiking trails. This includes mountain bikes as well as all terrain vehicles (ATVs), motorcycles and snowmobiles. NOTE: The part of the Old Mine Railroad Trail from the Appalachian Trail to the dam at Hidden Lake is now closed. The trail has been rerouted from the 3 Lakes Trail over the dam to connect with the remaining part of the trail. The dam at Hidden Lake will be repaired and raise the water level, possibly covering the now closed section.

Putnam River Trail

Rail-Trail

State: CT
Length: 2 miles
Surface: Asphalt

The Putnam River Trail extends between Arch Street in the Putnam District and Providence Street to the south. The trail follows the east bank of the Quinebaug River between the river and Kennedy Drive, with views of Cargill Falls. The trail passes through the town of Putnam, known for its antique shopping, and through local parks.
Along the way interpretive displays tell about Putnam's railroad history, textile mills, the 1955 flood and the area's founding citizens. One 200-foot pedestrian bridge is built on the stone foundation of an old railroad trestle. The trail offers scenic views of the river along its route.

Quinebaug River Trail

State: CT
Length: 4 miles
Surface: Asphalt

As of January 2012 the Quinebaug River Trail has two segments. The southern segment follows the course of the Quinebaug River in Danielson, beginning at the intersection of Palmer Street and Prospect Avenue, crossing a bridge over Fivemile Pond then heading south along the east bank of the river to Gloria Avenue. The northern segment runs between the Holiday Inn just west of the Attawaugan Crossing/Ballouville Exit (# 94) off I-395 and Park Road in Putnam, ending just after it crosses under the railroad tracks. The segment parallels Tracy and Park roads. You can continue north into Putnam and connect with the Putnam River Trail.
Eventually the Quinebaug River Trail will become part of the East Coast Greenway, stretching from Florida to Maine.

Railroad Ramble

Rail-Trail

State: CT
Length: 1.70 miles
Surface: Asphalt, Dirt, Grass

The Railroad Ramble occupies a corridor abandoned by the Central New England Railroad, which provided service from 1871 through 1967. In Lakeville, the trail can be found just off of Route 41 behind the recreational complex. You'll have to climb up an embankment to get to the trail, however.
The trail's south end is dirt and grass, and can be overgrown with vegetation in summer. Between Walton Street and the Walton Street Extension, the road and the trail are one and the same for a couple of blocks before the trail becomes dirt and grass to its end at Library Street in Salisbury.
The passes through a variety of landscapes, including woodlands, open fields, wetlands and neighborhoods. Along the way you'll find numbered observation locations, which correspond to a guide describing the significance of each location. Get a copy of the guide from businesses in both Lakeville and Salisbury.

Redstone Rail Trail

Rail-Trail

State: MA
Length: 1.40 miles
Surface: Asphalt

The Redstone Rail Trail is built on the former Boston and Maine railroad, the dominate rail line in New England for more than a century. Its name comes from the numerous red sandstone quarries in the area that gave the town its industrial beginnings. On its northern end, trail-goers can view the historic Old East Longmeadow Rail Station, as well as a modern point of interest, the East Longmeadow rotary, an intersection where seven streets come together with no traffic signals, giving the spot the notorious reputation as one of the most dangerous stretches of roadway in the world.

Shoreline Greenway Trail

State: CT
Length: 2.30 miles
Surface: Crushed Stone

When complete, Connecticut's Shoreline Greenway Trail will be a scenic 25-mile route through four quaint New England towns off Long Island Sound. From Lighthouse Point to Hammonasset Beach State Park, the trail will connect parks, schools, town centers, train stations, and hiking trails in East Haven, Branford, Guilford, and Madison.

Along the way, views of the water, forests, meadows, and marshes can be enjoyed. Where possible, the trail will be surfaced with distinctive crushed pink granite from a local quarry in Stony Creek. Benches are currently available on the trail and interpretive signage on the area's unique history and geology, as well as birdwatching stations, are planned for the future.

Although many parts of the trail have been cleared for walking and see regular use, the trail is surfaced and fully completed in these sections:

East Haven
0.2: This section, suitable for walking and biking, winds through a heavily wooded area from Hoop Pole Lane and Mansfield Grove Road to D.C. Moore School.