The best road cycling routes in Moosup Valley State Park Trail

The Moosup Valley State Park Trail is primarily built on a retired railroad bed, meaning routes generally feature a gentle grade and are largely flat. The surface varies, including paved sections, crushed stone, packed dirt, and gravel. Recent improvements in 2024 have enhanced the riding experience, though some sections towards the Rhode Island border may still be rougher.

Yes, the Moosup Valley State Park Trail connects at the Rhode Island border to the Coventry Greenway and the broader Washington Secondary Bike Path. This integration allows for extended rides into a larger paved network, forming a critical link in the planned 3,000-mile East Coast Greenway.

Cyclists can enjoy diverse scenery including riverside views along the Moosup River, 62 acres of wetlands, and various ponds like Sterling Pond, Tillinghast Pond, and Carbuncle Pond. The trail also features historic railroad elements such as old trestle bridges, deep rock cuts, a refurbished railroad bridge, a dam, a waterfall near an abandoned mill building, and a quarry around the 2-mile mark.

Yes, the Moosup Valley State Park Trail is known for its accessible, mostly flat terrain, making it suitable for cyclists of all skill levels. An easy option is the Blackwell Brook Covered Bridge – Bush Hill loop from East Brooklyn, which is 17.9 miles (28.9 km) long and leads through forested areas and past historic features.

The trail offers beautiful scenery throughout the warmer months. Spring and fall are particularly pleasant for cycling, with comfortable temperatures and vibrant foliage. Summer is also suitable, but it's advisable to start earlier in the day to avoid the midday heat.

While the trail is largely flat, some routes offer longer distances and varied terrain for a moderate challenge. For instance, the Sterling to Tillinghast Pond loop via Waterman Hill Conservation Area is a moderate 33.4 miles (53.8 km) route with varied terrain, taking about 2 hours 40 minutes to complete.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquil atmosphere, diverse natural beauty, and the trail's suitability for a relaxed ride due to its gentle grade and scenic views along the Moosup River and through woodlands.

Yes, there are several loop options available. A popular moderate loop is the Circle 'C' Campground loop from Moosup Valley State Park Trail, which is 26.3 miles (42.4 km) and offers a mix of open areas and wooded sections. Another is the George B Parker Woodland to Scituate Reservoir Protection Area loop, a moderate 41.5 miles (66.8 km) ride.

Routes in the Moosup Valley State Park Trail area vary in length and duration. You can find shorter easy rides, such as the Blackwell Brook Covered Bridge – Bush Hill loop from East Brooklyn at 17.9 miles (28.9 km) taking about 1 hour 20 minutes, to longer moderate routes like the Sterling to Tillinghast Pond loop via Waterman Hill Conservation Area, which is 33.4 miles (53.8 km) and takes around 2 hours 40 minutes.

The initial stretch from Moosup to Barber Hill Road is noted for its paved sections, making it ideal for road bikes. While other parts feature crushed stone and dirt, the overall gentle grade of the rail trail makes much of it accessible for road cycling, especially after recent resurfacing improvements.

Absolutely. As a former rail trail, the Moosup Valley State Park Trail is characterized by its largely flat terrain and gentle grades, making it an excellent choice for road cyclists seeking a less strenuous ride without significant elevation changes.

The trail passes through lush woodlands and 62 acres of wetlands, offering opportunities to spot diverse wildlife. You might encounter various bird species, small mammals, and other creatures typical of eastern Connecticut's natural habitats.