The best traffic-free bike rides in Salmon River State Forest
5.0
(35)
336
riders
38
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No traffic touring cycling routes in Salmon River State Forest traverse a diverse landscape of nearly 7,000 acres, characterized by mature hardwood and hemlock forests. The region features the Salmon River, known for its high water quality, and incorporates sections of the multi-use Airline State Park Trail. Cyclists will find a mix of paved and unpaved rail trails, along with dirt forest roads, offering varied terrain for touring bicycles. The area includes gentle elevations and notable historical landmarks like Comstock's…
Last updated: May 25, 2026
5.0
(2)
8
riders
10.4km
00:57
80m
80m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
7
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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6
riders
17.2km
01:40
170m
170m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
riders
10.8km
00:42
140m
140m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(5)
43
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Salmon River State Forest
Tips from the Community
The Air Line State Park Trail in Connecticut is a rail trail and linear state park that is a part of the East Coast Greenway. There are several sections including: South (25 miles from East Hampton to Windham), North (21 miles from Windham to Putnam), Thompson addition (6.6 miles from Thompson to the Massachusetts state line), and an additional 3.6-mile spur to Colchester. Recognized as a national recreation trail by the U.S. Department of the Interior in 2002, it offers scenic routes for hiking and biking. This southern section of the trail near East Hampton is a gravel crushed trail that is great to ride on its own, or to access singeltrack in the nearby Salmon River Forest.
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This conservation property contains fun, rolling singletrack trails that also span into town and state property. Keep your eye out for tree roots and rocks, and also stay aware of where you're going because most of these trails are not marked.
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From here you can take the Colchester Spur Trail. The area surrounding the trail played a small but fascinating role in the American Revolution. Look for markers mentioning skirmish sites and troop movements.
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The green space to the north of this trail is the grounds of the Skungamaug Fish and Game Club, a group devoted to hunting and fishing.
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Birch Hill Road Open Space West is a nature reserve southeast of Grayville Falls, situated right next to the Air Line State Park Trail. Undeveloped, forested land covers the area between the town's many residential developments, adding to the rural character of this beautiful area.
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Air Line State Park Trail is a gravel crushed trail that runs on an old rail bed. It's a great trail to ride on its own or to access singeltrack in the Salmon River Forest.
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Completely gravel but mostly compacted. Loose rocks in some areas.
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If you look to the sides of the path, you can see some of the beams and rails of the buried bridge.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic touring cycling routes are available in Salmon River State Forest?
There are over 35 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes in Salmon River State Forest, offering a variety of distances and difficulties for a peaceful ride away from busy roads.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the no-traffic touring cycling routes?
The routes primarily utilize the Airline State Park Trail, which features both paved and unpaved (gravel/crushed stone) sections. You'll also find dirt forest roads and old railroad beds along the Salmon River, providing a mix of surfaces suitable for touring bikes.
Are there any easy, family-friendly no-traffic routes suitable for beginners?
Yes, Salmon River State Forest offers several easy routes perfect for families and beginners. For example, the Former Lyman Viaduct loop from Gateway Preserve is an easy 10.4 km ride with minimal elevation gain, ideal for a relaxed outing.
What are some notable landmarks or natural features I can see along the routes?
You can encounter several interesting features. The Former Lyman Viaduct loop takes you past the impressive 137-foot-high Lyman Viaduct. Comstock's Bridge, the only remaining covered bridge in eastern Connecticut, is another picturesque landmark in the area. The Salmon River itself is a beautiful feature, known for its high water quality and wildlife.
Are there any routes that feature waterfalls?
While not directly on the main cycling routes, Day Pond State Park, integrated within the state forest's trail system, is home to the beautiful Day Pond Brook Falls. These cascades over moss-covered boulders are a short detour worth exploring.
Can I bring my dog on the no-traffic touring cycling routes?
Yes, many trails within Salmon River State Forest, including sections of the Airline State Park Trail, are dog-friendly. Always ensure your dog is on a leash and that you clean up after them to maintain the natural beauty of the forest for everyone.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Salmon River State Forest?
Spring, summer, and fall offer excellent conditions for touring cycling. The varied forest landscape provides beautiful scenery, from lush greenery in warmer months to vibrant foliage in autumn. Winter cycling is possible, but conditions can be challenging due to snow and ice on unpaved sections.
Are there any circular no-traffic routes available?
Yes, there are several circular routes. The Bike loop from Grayville Falls Town Park is a moderate 17.2 km loop, and the Zirkenback Pond loop from West Road Open Space offers an easy 10.7 km circular ride.
Where can I park my car when visiting Salmon River State Forest for cycling?
Parking is available at various access points to the Airline State Park Trail and other trailheads within the forest. Specific parking areas are often located near popular starting points like Gateway Preserve or Grayville Falls Town Park.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Salmon River State Forest?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from 25 ratings. Reviewers often praise the peaceful, traffic-free environment, the scenic beauty of the Salmon River, and the well-maintained multi-use trails like the Airline State Park Trail.
Are there any more challenging no-traffic touring routes?
For those seeking a bit more challenge, routes like the Air Line State Park Trail – Former Lyman Viaduct loop from Chittenden Road Open Space South offer a moderate 23 km ride with more elevation gain, providing a longer and more engaging experience.
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