The best traffic-free bike rides in Mooween State Park
5.0
(10)
60
riders
3
rides
Touring cycling in Mooween State Park, Connecticut, offers routes through a diverse landscape characterized by dense woodlands, varied topography, and historical remnants. The park features the 127-acre Red Cedar Lake and views of Gardner Lake from certain routes. Elevations range from brook valleys at 350 feet to a central hilltop exceeding 500 feet, providing a mix of gradients for cyclists. Routes often incorporate existing double tracks and park roads, winding past stone walls and the grounds of the former Camp…
Last updated: April 27, 2026
8
riders
12.6km
01:13
150m
150m
Hard bike ride. Great for any fitness level. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
5
riders
70.5km
05:05
880m
880m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
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5.0
(1)
4
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
12
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
7
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Mooween State Park
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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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 Air Line Trail is a paved 50-mile multi-use trail that connects the cities of Thompson and Portland. This trail is open to walkers, bikes, and even horses.
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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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Machimoodus State Park is known for having acres of forests and trails that make their way down to the banks of the Salmon River. The trails are generally easy to follow and pretty easy footing. There aren't a lot of hills, and the hills that are there are nothing to write home about.
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Gulf Road is a dirt road that deteriorates into a trail along the Salmon River. The road is on State Forest land, but you'll likely see some private property signs in the woods. As long as you stay on the path, you are on the right track and on public lands. There are sporadic views of the river, but this trail is mostly in the trees.
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Undeveloped state park right next to Red Cedar Lake. From the road, there are great views of the lake. There are some picnic tables in the park, but no bathrooms.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic touring cycling routes are available in Mooween State Park?
There are five dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes available in and around Mooween State Park, offering a range of distances and difficulties for cyclists to explore.
What types of surfaces can I expect on the no-traffic touring cycling routes?
The no-traffic touring cycling routes in Mooween State Park feature a diverse mix of surfaces. You can expect both smoother paved sections and more rugged gravel paths, providing a varied cycling experience through scenic farms and forests.
Are there any easy no-traffic touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, there are several easy routes perfect for beginners or families. For instance, the Colchester Spur Trail junction loop from Colchester is an easy 11 km ride, and the Air Line Trail – Colchester Spur Trail junction loop from Colchester offers a gentle 17.2 km experience. Another easy option is the Skungamaug Fish and Game Club – Colchester Spur Trail junction loop from Colchester, spanning 22.1 km.
What are some notable natural features or landmarks I might see while cycling?
While cycling, you'll encounter the beautiful 127-acre Red Cedar Lake, which is a central feature of the park. Routes also offer scenic views of Gardner Lake. Historically, you can spot remnants of the former Camp Mooween, including concrete foundations and fireplaces, and the remains of the 300-year-old Granny Austin Tavern.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about the no-traffic routes in Mooween State Park?
The komoot community highly rates the touring cycling experience in Mooween State Park, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the quiet, densely wooded landscapes, the historical elements like the old Camp Mooween grounds, and the peaceful, traffic-free environment that allows for immersive rides through nature.
Are there any longer or more challenging no-traffic touring cycling routes?
For those seeking a more challenging ride, the Ballahack Preserve loop from Colchester is a difficult 70.4 km route. Another challenging option is the Mooween State Park loop from Bozrah, which covers 12.9 km with significant elevation changes.
Is Mooween State Park suitable for touring cyclists looking for circular routes?
Yes, all five no-traffic touring cycling routes listed for Mooween State Park are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and end your ride at the same point without retracing your path.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Mooween State Park?
Mooween State Park's densely wooded landscape and varied terrain make it enjoyable throughout the warmer months. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful foliage, while summer provides lush greenery. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.
Are there any specific parking areas for accessing the no-traffic touring cycling routes?
While specific parking areas for each route are not detailed here, Mooween State Park generally offers parking facilities. For routes starting from Colchester, you can typically find parking in or near the town to access the trailheads. It's advisable to check the specific route details on komoot for recommended starting points and parking information.
Can I combine touring cycling with other activities in Mooween State Park?
Absolutely. Beyond cycling, Mooween State Park offers hiking and horseback riding trails. Red Cedar Lake is also popular for fishing, boating, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding, making it easy to combine your touring cycling trip with other outdoor pursuits.
Are there any public transport options to reach Mooween State Park for cycling?
Public transport options directly to Mooween State Park are limited. Access is primarily by car. However, some routes start from nearby towns like Colchester, which may have more accessible transport links, though a personal vehicle is generally recommended for convenience when bringing a touring bicycle.
Most popular routes in Mooween State Park
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