Gardner Lake to Devil's Hopyard State Park

You can typically find parking near Gardner Lake to begin your ride. For the destination, Devil's Hopyard State Park offers designated parking areas, especially near the picnic spots, which are convenient for cyclists.

The route features mostly well-paved surfaces, making it suitable for road bikes. You'll encounter rolling hills throughout southeastern Connecticut, with some notable elevation changes, but generally no 'killer hills'. It's a moderately challenging ride requiring good fitness.

Beyond the scenic New England countryside, you can stop for a treat at Salem Valley Farms Ice Cream. As you approach Devil's Hopyard State Park, highlights include the impressive Chapman Falls, the Eightmile River (a National Scenic and Wild River), and a charming covered bridge within the park. The park also features unique geological formations, including cylindrical potholes in the riverbed.

The route offers picturesque scenery year-round, but it's particularly stunning during the autumn months when the foliage displays vibrant colors. Spring and summer also provide pleasant conditions for cycling, with lush greenery.

Generally, there are no specific permits or fees required for road cycling on public roads in Connecticut. Entry to Devil's Hopyard State Park is typically free, though parking fees may apply during peak seasons or for out-of-state vehicles at certain times. It's always a good idea to check the official Connecticut State Parks website for the most current information.

This route is classified as a 'moderate road ride' due to its distance (approximately 51.6 km or 32 miles) and significant elevation gain (around 440 meters or 1,444 feet). While the surfaces are well-paved, the elevation changes require good fitness, so it might be challenging for absolute beginners to road cycling.

While primarily a road cycling route, sections of it briefly pass through or near smaller trails. You might encounter very short segments that are part of the Millington Trail, Richard H. Goodwin Trail, Vista Trail, Red Trail, Woodcutters Trail, Witch Hazel Trail, White Trail, and George Babcock Road, though these make up a minimal percentage of the overall ride.

As a road cycling route, it's not typically designed for cycling with dogs alongside. However, Devil's Hopyard State Park itself is generally dog-friendly for leashed dogs on its hiking trails, but always check park regulations before bringing your pet into the park area.

Within Devil's Hopyard State Park, you can find amenities such as bathrooms and water at the picnic areas. Along the route itself, options may be limited to small towns or businesses you pass through, so it's advisable to carry sufficient water and snacks.

Given the well-paved surfaces and the 'racebike' sport classification, a road bike is ideal for this route. Its design is optimized for efficiency and speed on paved roads, which will help with the rolling hills and overall distance.

Yes, you can find Salem Valley Farms Ice Cream along the route for a refreshing stop. Additionally, the towns surrounding Devil's Hopyard State Park and Gardner Lake may offer various dining options.