Air Line State Park Trail: Exeter Road to East Hampton

The hike from Exeter Road to East Hampton covers approximately 20 kilometers (12.5 miles). While the komoot tour data suggests a duration of around 5 hours and 15 minutes, this can vary significantly based on your pace, stops, and fitness level. It's a longer route, so plan accordingly.

The trail officially starts at Exeter Road. Parking information isn't explicitly detailed in the provided sources, but trailheads for the Air Line State Park Trail typically offer designated parking areas. It's advisable to check local resources or trail maps for specific parking locations near Exeter Road or East Hampton.

Yes, despite its length, the trail is generally considered easy and suitable for most skill levels. As a former railway bed, it features a relatively flat terrain with gentle grades. The surface varies from compacted earth and crushed rock to gravel, making it accessible for beginners, families, and those seeking a less strenuous long-distance hike.

You can expect a diverse and picturesque New England landscape. The trail passes through dense forests, extensive wetlands, bogs, and open fields. You'll encounter charming small towns, historic stone walls, farm fields, rocky streams, and meandering rivers. The consistent, level grade, a legacy of its railway past, makes for comfortable walking.

This section is rich in history, following the path of the former Air Line Railroad. Key highlights include impressive engineering remnants like the **Rapallo Viaduct** and the **Lyman Viaduct**. These structures, once among the longest rail viaducts in the U.S., offer stunning treetop views. You can also observe rock cuts where the railroad blasted through bedrock. Additionally, you might pass by the Colchester Spur Trail junction and the Air Line State Park Trail Waterfalls.

The trail offers beauty throughout the year. Spring brings lush greenery and blooming wildflowers, while autumn showcases vibrant fall foliage, making it a particularly popular time. Summer is also great, though some sections might be more exposed. Winter hiking is possible, but conditions can vary with snow and ice, so appropriate gear is essential.

Yes, the Air Line State Park Trail is generally dog-friendly. However, it's crucial to keep your dog on a leash at all times to ensure their safety, the safety of other trail users, and to protect local wildlife. Always remember to clean up after your pet.

The Air Line State Park Trail, as part of a state park trail system, typically does not require specific permits or charge entrance fees for hiking access. However, it's always a good practice to check the official Connecticut State Parks website for any updated regulations or specific requirements before your visit.

Yes, the route primarily follows the Air Line Trail for its entire length. It also briefly intersects with the Air Line Trail (Colchester Spur) and sections named River Road and Air Line State Park Trail, indicating connections to other local paths and segments of the broader trail system.

Given the trail's length, it's advisable to bring plenty of water, snacks, and appropriate footwear. Depending on the season, layers of clothing, sun protection, and insect repellent can be beneficial. A map or GPS device is also recommended, even though the trail is well-defined, to help navigate and identify points of interest.

This specific section of the Air Line State Park Trail, from Exeter Road to East Hampton, is an out-and-back route. You will need to retrace your steps to return to your starting point, or arrange for transportation at the other end.