The Air Line Trail is one of the coolest trails in Connecticut. This 46-mile rail-to-trail project is built over an abandoned rail line. Rail-to-trails are great projects: they take land that would otherwise be left unused and allow it to be utilized by the community. Since rail lines are almost entirely flat, these lengthy trails make for wonderful and easy hikes that the entire family can enjoy. Their extensive length and multiple access points means that they’re perfect for just about any type of hiker. You can divide them up into very short segments, or take a lengthy trek across several legs for an hours-long adventure. Like most rail-to-trail projects, the Air Line Trail travels through several great little cities and landmarks. One of the coolest sights you’ll see on the Air Line Trail is a tri-state marker where you can stand in three different states at once!

The Air Line State Park trail travels through a good chunk of eastern Connecticut. The path touches East Hampton, Colchester, Pomfret, Putnam, and several other towns.
Deborah Franks/Google Local
The trail was once part of a popular rail line that ran from New York City to Boston.
This is a beautiful trail, with lots of greenery and plenty of secluded areas to get in touch with nature.
Deborah Franks/Google Local
The trail is popular with mountain bikers, horseback riders, and point-to-point hikers, but because there's so much space to spread out, it rarely feels crowded.
Carol Finlayson/Google Local

Related Stories

There's Almost Nothing A Hike In Connecticut Nature At Whittemore Glen State Park Scenic Reserve Can't Cure

There's Almost Nothing A Hike In Connecticut Nature At Whittemore Glen State Park Scenic Reserve Can't Cure

 This Short Hike In Connecticut Is The Perfect Way To Get Outside On A Winter Day

This Short Hike In Connecticut Is The Perfect Way To Get Outside On A Winter Day

 9 Picturesque Trails In Connecticut That Are Perfect For Winter Hiking

9 Picturesque Trails In Connecticut That Are Perfect For Winter Hiking
Your experience can differ greatly depending on what area of the trail you're on. Some sections trek through fields, some through shaded paths, and some through woods.
Padraic Hagan/Google Local
One of the neatest landmarks on the trail is the tri-state marker. It's right at the northern tip of the trail and marks the spot where the borders of Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and Connecticut meet.
Matthew Skaba/Google Local
The spot is marked with a small pointed monument with each state's name on the respective sides. Interestingly, the Connecticut side is not dated because the Connecticut government did not agree with the state borders as they were drawn.
Greg Baynham/Google Local
Whether you hike past the point where you can touch all three states or just stick to the southern or middle portion of the trail, the Air Line Trail is one of the most interesting trails in Connecticut that every hiker should explore.
Terry Coatta/Google Local

For more information about the Air Line State Park Trail, visit the official Connecticut website.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Related Articles

Explore Connecticut

Featured Addresses
Airline Trail, East Hampton, CT, USA