Connecticut: Biking Trails For ALL Riders

Connecticut is known for being riddled with rocks and roots, enough to keep the most experienced rider on his toes. Serious mountain bikers have long visited the state for this very reason. However, there is plenty for the novice biker (and everything in between) as well!

Not far from Colchester, inexperienced bikers can get a feel for biking and develop basic skills on the ten miles of trails in Salmon River State Forest. This area is predominantly flat and features dirt trails, plus there are a few additional "trails" locals have blazed that you may want to check out as you build your confidence level. If you get too easily bored with the flat terrain, you can try out some more technical areas on trails located on the other side of the bridge and up the hill. The scenery is gorgeous.

Flat railroad beds no longer used by the railroads make the perfect base for many biking trails, and this is the case near Trumbul at the Old Mine Park. The easy terrain makes it a pleasure to ride for less experienced riders, and there are also other advanced trails suitable for biking enthusiasts. If you follow the river trails, you can experience technical difficulties like inclines and sharp drops, tree roots and rocks, water crossings, and even a mud hole. You'll find lots to love here!

For those with a mid-skill level-neither advanced nor beginners-the 6-mile route called the Blue Trail by Thomaston is a great find. Rolling hills with some gravel and sand, rocks, trees, and roots keep it interesting, and the scenery along the way is also extremely varied. From an old drive-in movie theater to railroad bridges, campgrounds, and rivers, there is something fascinating to see all along the way. Be careful if you ride after it rains or during a rainfall, though, as some of the hills can get slippery and dangerous.

Near Tyler Mill in Wallingford, you can choose from all kinds of tracks and trails for bike riding. These same trails are also used for hiking, hunting (during season), and horseback riding, and they include easy paved trails and wet, muddy trails with creek crossings and other technical difficulties. The variety makes it fun for everyone!

If you're looking for rugged terrain, head over toward Voluntown to the Patchaug State Forest and explore 14 miles of biking trails with big roots and loose rocks. Some of the fire roads used for trails are also used for horseback riding and hiking, but overall it is a very quiet area.

For advanced riders who have conquered all the other trails, it's time to head toward Manchester and Glastonbuy to the Case Mountain trails. Twenty miles of technical riding terrain features steep climbs and drops both small and large, bridges, rocky sections, and lots of loose gravel. You'll definitely appreciate a bike with suspension for these trails. While the trails are well kept, the difficulty of the trails promises a challenging ride!

Though a small state, Connecticut has a great deal to offer bikers. From forests and fields to coasts and mountains, there is something for everyone to enjoy. And once you get a chance to enjoy some of these trails, you'll definitely want to come back for more!