Near Farmington Canal Heritage Trail: Northern Connecticut Section
The trail on a former rail bridge over the Farmington River

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Hike Trail

Farmington Canal Heritage Trail: Northern Connecticut Section

4.0 (2 Ratings)
Twenty-two miles of rail trail leads from the border down past the Farmington River Bridge.
21.9
mi
Distance
386
ft
Gain
easy
Difficulty
Fall ColorsFamily Friendly

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
21.9mi
Distance
386ft
Elevation Gain
377ft
Elevation Loss
15%
Max Grade
280ft
High Point
153ft
Low Point
Path Type
Point to Point
Description
This is a very easy paved rail trail that starts near the Massachusetts border. It encounters several road crossings as it travels south, but the crossings are well marked and recognized by motorists. This is a great option for families, with many places to access the trail or turn around early depending on your desired mileage. There is one section of the trail in Avon, CT where you hike on the sidewalks or side of the road. Plenty of signs help you find your way back to the trail, and if in doubt, you can use the Mobile App to guide you. For some reason this short section has not been completed (private land?). Near the middle of this section is the "Plan B" restaurant in Simsbury, CT. The food is great and they have a good selection of microbrews! There is also a small park with a playground for the kids and ample parking.

Route Conditions

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Contributors
Todd Osborne