The best gravel rides in Moosup Valley State Park Trail

There are 5 gravel bike routes available in Moosup Valley State Park Trail, offering a range of experiences from moderate to difficult. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community.

The trails feature a diverse surface, including crushed stone, grass, gravel, and packed dirt, with some paved sections. As a former rail-trail, it's generally wide and flat, traversing deep forests, mixed woodlands, and often paralleling the Moosup River. You'll also encounter wetlands and several ponds.

While the guide lists routes as moderate to difficult, the Moosup Valley State Park Trail itself, being a former rail-trail, is generally wide and flat, making it accessible for riders of varying skill levels. For a moderate option, consider the Circle 'C' Campground – Greene loop from Coventry, which is 20.5 miles long and offers varied terrain.

Yes, for experienced riders seeking a challenge, there are several difficult routes. The Round Hill – Cucumber Hill loop from Coventry is a demanding 40.5-mile path with significant elevation gain. Another difficult option is the The Trestle Trail – Greene loop from Coventry, which is 36.6 miles long and leads through woodlands and past historic railroad features.

You'll frequently ride alongside the scenic Moosup River and pass by several ponds, including Sterling Pond, Tillinghast Pond, and Carbuncle Pond. The trails also wind through deep forests and mixed woodlands. Keep an eye out for historic railroad elements like old trestle bridges and deep rock cuts, and an abandoned mill complex with a scenic dam and waterfall.

Absolutely. The trail is built on the abandoned bed of the former New Haven Railroad, so you'll find historic railroad trestle bridges and deep rock cuts. A notable feature is an abandoned mill complex next to a scenic dam and waterfall. The Glen Falls Bridge, an 1886 structure, is also recognized on the National Registry of Historic Places.

While specific parking locations aren't detailed in the guide, the trail is a state park trail, and parking is generally available at designated access points in the towns of Plainfield and Sterling. It's advisable to check local park information for precise parking areas.

Yes, the Moosup Valley State Park Trail is generally dog-friendly. Dogs are typically allowed on leash, making it a great option for riding with your canine companion. Always ensure your dog is under control and follow any posted regulations.

Yes, many of the routes in Moosup Valley State Park Trail are designed as loops. For example, the popular Circle 'C' Campground – Greene loop from Coventry and the more challenging Round Hill – Cucumber Hill loop from Coventry are both circular routes, allowing you to start and end at the same point.

Yes, the Moosup Valley State Park Trail is a crucial segment of the larger East Coast Greenway, which is envisioned to stretch from Maine to Florida. It also connects to the Coventry Greenway in Rhode Island, offering opportunities for extended journeys beyond the immediate park boundaries.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse terrain, the tranquil rural setting that feels 'miles from civilization,' and the scenic views along the Moosup River and through deep woodlands. The historical railroad elements also add a unique charm to the rides.

The Moosup Valley State Park Trail can be enjoyed across multiple seasons. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer is also great, with shaded paths through woodlands providing relief. Winter riding is possible, but conditions may vary, so checking local weather and trail reports is recommended.

The Moosup Valley State Park Trail runs through rural towns like Plainfield and Sterling. While the immediate trailside is tranquil, you can find amenities, including cafes and pubs, in these nearby towns. It's a good idea to plan your route and check for establishments in advance.