The best traffic-free bike rides in Enders State Forest

There are 13 no traffic road cycling routes available in Enders State Forest, offering a variety of options for a peaceful ride away from busy roads. These routes range from easy to moderate difficulty.

The best time to visit Enders State Forest for road cycling is generally during spring, summer, and fall. The region's dense tree canopies provide shade in warmer months, and the autumn foliage offers spectacular views. Winter conditions can vary, so it's advisable to check local weather and road conditions before planning a ride during colder months.

The terrain in Enders State Forest and its surrounding areas is characterized by hilly landscapes, with elevations ranging from 900 to over 1,100 feet. This provides both scenic beauty and a natural challenge for road cyclists, with generally well-paved surfaces on the routes.

Yes, there are easy no traffic road cycling routes available. For instance, the McLean Game Refuge – Holcomb Farm loop from Town Open Space is an easy option, covering about 26 km with a moderate elevation gain. Another easy route is the McLean Game Refuge – Tobacco barns loop from West Simsbury, which is around 39 km long.

Yes, many of the no traffic road cycling routes in the area are designed as loops. For example, the Pinchot Sycamore – Tuller Reservoir loop from Town Open Space offers a circular ride of nearly 33 km. Another option is the Columbia Greenway Rail Trail – Columbia Greenway Rail Trail loop from Town Open Space, which is a longer circular route of over 57 km.

Parking is generally available at designated areas within or near Enders State Forest. Specific parking locations will depend on the starting point of your chosen route. It's always recommended to check the route details on komoot for precise parking information for each tour.

While cycling the roads around Enders State Forest, you can experience lush woodlands and varied topography. The forest is renowned for the beautiful Enders Falls, a series of five cascades, though these are typically accessed via hiking trails. Some routes, like the View of the Farmington River – Farmington River Bridge loop from West Simsbury, offer scenic views of the Farmington River. The area also borders the 4,200-acre McLean Game Refuge.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from 4 ratings. Reviewers often praise the peacefulness of the routes, the scenic beauty of the woodlands, and the challenging yet rewarding hilly terrain that makes for an engaging ride away from traffic.

While Enders State Forest itself is a natural area, the surrounding towns and communities offer various amenities. You may find cafes, restaurants, or local establishments in nearby towns like Granby, Barkhamsted, or Simsbury, which are often starting or ending points for many routes. It's a good idea to plan your stops in advance.

Generally, no specific permits are required for road cycling on public roads within or around Enders State Forest. However, it's always advisable to respect local regulations and private property signs. For more detailed information on the state forest, you can visit the official Connecticut DEEP website: portal.ct.gov/DEEP/State-Parks/Forests/Enders-State-Forest.

Public transport options directly to Enders State Forest are limited. Most visitors typically access the area by car, especially when bringing bicycles. It's recommended to check local bus schedules or ride-sharing services for connections to nearby towns if you plan to rely on public transport.