By popular demand, we are back with more of our favorite scenic motorcycle rides. There are so many beautiful areas in Connecticut that it’s hard to narrow down! Everyone has their own preferences, but we will highlight 7 great routes to try.
Colchester, CT Tour
Situated in Southeastern Connecticut, Colchester is a historic town with plenty of landmarks to visit and activities to try. As a motorcycle rider, you know there is often no better way to clear your mind than to take a scenic cruise on winding country backroads lined with farmland. That’s what you will experience in Colchester and at the Salmon River State Park. Be sure to stop for a hike or picnic lunch and enjoy the views!
Connecticut Route 4
Starting in the rural, woodsy town of Sharon, this trip from the northwest region of the state brings riders through the relatively deserted roads of Cornwall, Goshen and Torrington into Harwinton, Burlington and West Hartford Center. Along the Farmington River, there is a great stretch of open road for riders who need to clear their head among nature.
Connecticut Route 20
This route through Litchfield and Hartford Counties spans nearly 32 miles across some of the quietest areas in our state. Starting from Route 8 in Winchester, riders can enjoy long, winding and scenic rural roads.
One of our favorite spots to stop along this journey and experience an incredible sense of calm is the Barkhamsted Reservoir at Saville Dam. Be sure to snap some pictures and share them with us on social media! The ride continues into Granby and East Granby before Windsor brings you back to I-91.
Connecticut Coastline Tour I
Beginning in Stonington, this 108-mile route to Greenwich is a scenic drive along our state’s picturesque coastline. The southeastern corner of Connecticut is known for its quaint villages, sprawling salt marches and woodlands, private and public beaches and historic landmarks. One of the highlights along this route is Lighthouse Point Park on the Long Island Sound in New Haven.
Connecticut Coastline Tour II
Starting in Old Lyme, the Connecticut River is a beautiful landmark to see any time of year. Traveling through Essex, riders will spot the historic Valley Railroad that operates the Essex Steam Train. During this loop, you can also enjoy a view of ancient buildings and stop at antique shops. Our endpoint will be Gillette Castle State Park, with beautiful river views.
Litchfield Landscape Tour
For motorcycle riders who are looking for a longer journey, you’ll love this 58-mile stretch through the Litchfield Hills to Kent. Gather your friends for a roundabout route, traveling backroads with low vehicle activity and breathtaking views of fall foliage. We highly recommend stopping in Torrington’s historic downtown district for a unique shopping experience. Once in Kent, Bull’s Bridge is a single-lane covered bridge over the Housatonic River, listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Route to 49 & 14A
One of our favorite rides in Northeastern Connecticut starts in Storrs, the quiet home of UCONN. We’ll take about a 20-mile ride to Plainfield and the Pachaug State Forest, the largest in the state’s forest system. Revel in rolling hill views, miles of farmland and ancient stone architecture along the way.
Once at the Pachaug State Forest, you can take the 58-mile Enduro trail, marked specifically for motorcycles and licensed riders.
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