Follow This Abandoned Railroad Trail For One Of The Most Unique Hikes In Connecticut
By Lisa Sammons|Published November 16, 2021
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Lisa Sammons
Author
Lisa loves animals and has dogs, rats, cats, guinea pigs, and snakes. She is passionate about animal rescue and live music - traveling across the country to see a favorite band is a pretty regular occurrence! Being out hiking in the woods enjoying the scenery with her beloved dogs is another favorite hobby, and also checking out the Pokemon Go scene in whatever city she happens to be in at any given time (coffee and dog leash in hand). You can reach Lisa at lsammons@onlyinyourstate.com
Like much of the United States, Connecticut has miles of railroad tracks that are no longer being used. As the rail industry underwent drastic changes in the late 20th-century, many tracks were closed down. These miles of unused railway went through cleared areas in towns and landscapes all over the country. Gradually, many states have begun to convert these eyesores into multi-use paths that can be used as hiking and biking trails. One rail trail in Connecticut that has been converted to pedestrian and bicycle use is the Air Line State Park Trail, which runs through part of the state.
We love the outdoors, and we absolutely love hiking trails in Connecticut. In a state as beautiful as ours, there's so much to see here and one of the best ways to do it is to get outside and enjoy nature.
This 43-mile trail is paved and mostly flat throughout, with occasional very gradual ramps up in elevation. It's perfect for hikers, bikers, and horse riders.
Of course, you don't have to hike the entire 43 miles if you aren't inclined. It's a great trail to just pick bits and pieces and go as far as you wish.