Air Line State Park Trail

If you're seeking mountain biking trails that offer more than just smooth cruising, the Air Line and Salmon River Forest Loop delivers a varied experience. This 8.1-mile (13.0 km) route, with 579 feet (176 metres) of elevation gain and an estimated duration of 1 hour and 8 minutes, starts on the historic Air Line State Park Trail before diving into the Salmon River Forest. Here, you'll find a mix of dirt roads and challenging singletrack, complete with switchbacks, rocky sections, and even some steep climbs that might require you to hike your bike.

This loop is officially rated easy, but the technical sections suggest it's best suited for riders who are comfortable with intermediate mountain biking terrain. The trail is multi-use, shared with hikers and horseback riders, so keep an eye out for others. Parking is generally available at trailheads accessing the Salmon River State Forest, but it's always a good idea to arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure a spot.

The Air Line and Salmon River Forest Loop is notable for its surprisingly wild feel for Connecticut, offering picturesque views as it winds along the Salmon River. It provides a diverse natural experience, blending the historic rail-trail with a more rugged forest environment. This makes it one of the best mountain bike trails in the Salmon River State Forest for those looking for a dynamic ride.

The Air Line State Park Trail – Former Lyman Viaduct loop from East Hampton offers a delightful mountain biking experience, winding through forests, wetlands, and open fields. You'll ride over the historic Lyman Viaduct, which provides expansive panoramic views of the Salmon River Valley, a true highlight of the route. The trail is mostly gravel or packed earth, with some sections that can be a bit rougher, but it's generally an easy 11.6-mile (18.6 km) ride with 566 feet (172 metres) of elevation gain, taking about 1 hour and 35 minutes.

To plan your visit, you'll typically start from East Hampton, where you can access the trail. While described as a loop, many riders experience this section as an out-and-back or combine it with local roads to create their own custom route. There are no special permits or fees required, making it an accessible option for a spontaneous ride. It's a great choice for those looking for family friendly mountain biking in East Hampton CT.

This trail follows the path of the historic "Air Line" railroad, an impressive 19th-century engineering feat designed to create the shortest route between New York and Boston. Riding across the filled-in viaducts gives you a unique sense of history and a connection to the past, while enjoying the natural beauty of Connecticut's eastern highlands. It's a notable trail for its blend of scenic viewpoints and historical significance.