The best cycling routes in Devil'S Hopyard State Park

There are 8 touring cycling routes available in and around Devil's Hopyard State Park. These routes offer a range of experiences, from moderate rides to more challenging excursions.

The touring cycling routes in Devil's Hopyard State Park feature varied terrain. You can expect a mix of paved roads and unpaved sections, often with significant elevation changes, including both climbs and descents. This diversity provides a rewarding experience for cyclists looking for different challenges.

While specific routes may not directly pass over Chapman Falls, the falls are a central feature of Devil's Hopyard State Park and are easily accessible from parking areas within the park. Many cycling routes in the area will bring you close to the park's natural beauty, allowing for a short detour to experience the breathtaking 60-foot cascade.

Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in Devil's Hopyard State Park are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the difficult route Devil's Hopyard Covered Bridge – View of the Connecticut River loop from Big Brook Gorge Preserve is a long loop offering extensive views.

Beyond the natural beauty of the Eightmile River and Chapman Falls, touring cycling routes in the region can lead you to several interesting landmarks. You might encounter a picturesque covered bridge, or on routes like the moderate View of the Connecticut River – Gillette Castle loop from Moodus, you can connect to nearby attractions such as Gillette Castle.

Devil's Hopyard State Park offers beautiful scenery throughout much of the year. Spring and summer bring lush greenery and wildflowers, while autumn is particularly stunning with vibrant fall foliage. The varied terrain and natural beauty make it a visually appealing destination in most seasons, though conditions can vary.

While many routes in the park feature significant elevation changes and varied surfaces, making them more suitable for experienced touring cyclists, some shorter, less strenuous sections or nearby paved roads might be more appropriate for families. Always check the route details for distance, elevation, and surface type to ensure it matches your family's abilities. The moderate Town Open Space (Route 149) – Axelrod Preserve loop from Town Beach Preserve offers a shorter option.

Parking is generally available within Devil's Hopyard State Park, particularly near popular access points like Chapman Falls. When planning your cycling trip, it's advisable to check specific route starting points for designated parking areas to ensure convenient access to your chosen tour.

The routes in Devil's Hopyard State Park range from moderate to difficult. Many feature significant elevation gains and varied surfaces, including unpaved sections. Cyclists should have good to very good fitness, especially for longer routes like the difficult Ballahack Preserve loop from Colchester, which covers over 70 km with substantial climbing.

Devil's Hopyard State Park is generally dog-friendly for hiking, but specific regulations for dogs on cycling trails can vary. It's always best to check the official park guidelines or local signage regarding pets on designated cycling paths to ensure compliance and a safe experience for everyone.

Given the varied terrain and potential for longer rides, it's recommended to bring a well-maintained touring bicycle suitable for mixed surfaces, a helmet, plenty of water, snacks, a repair kit, and appropriate clothing for the weather. A map or GPS device is also helpful, as some routes traverse less populated areas. For example, the Nehantic State Forest – View of Rogers Lake at Sunset loop from Eightmile River covers varied terrain over 38 km.

While Devil's Hopyard State Park itself is primarily a natural area, the surrounding towns and communities in East Haddam and Moodus offer various dining options, including cafes and restaurants. It's a good idea to plan your route to pass through or near these towns if you intend to stop for refreshments or a meal.