Tips
August 9, 2023
Cycling
There are not many structures in the state park as the goal of the park is to return it to be a natural flooding barrier of the Long Island Sound.
February 7, 2024
Road cycling
There are not many structures in the state park as the goal of the park is to return it to be a natural flooding barrier of the Long Island Sound.
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Silver Sands State Park Beach
4.9
(17)
24
riders
50.4km
02:55
170m
170m
The East Coast Greenway from New Haven to Milford offers a delightful touring bicycle experience, blending urban stretches with serene coastal views. You'll pedal along the Long Island Sound, passing through charming areas like Silver Sands State Park Beach and the scenic Beach Street Trail, where the water views are particularly rewarding. The route features a mixed surface, predominantly paved, but with some segments that benefit from wider tires, creating a varied and engaging ride.
Planning your trip is straightforward, though it's good to know that while much of the 31.3-mile (50.4 km) journey is on dedicated paths, some sections share the road with traffic. This moderate route, with a gentle 551 feet (168 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 2 hours and 55 minutes to complete. It's best enjoyed during milder seasons to fully appreciate the coastal atmosphere and avoid extreme weather.
This segment is a key part of the ambitious 3,000-mile East Coast Greenway, connecting urban centers with natural beauty. It's notable for its direct access to several coastal attractions and offers a unique perspective on Connecticut's shoreline. The ongoing development of dedicated bike infrastructure in areas like New Haven continues to enhance the cycling experience, making this a great option for a rewarding day out.
4.0
(2)
14
riders
37.8km
02:11
140m
140m
The East Coast Greenway: Milford and West Haven Coastal Loop offers a delightful touring cycling experience along the Connecticut shoreline. You'll pedal through diverse scenery, from serene marshlands to expansive views of the Long Island Sound, with notable stops like the sandy Oyster River Beach and the picturesque Silver Sands State Park Beach. This moderate 23.5-mile (37.8 km) route, featuring 443 feet (135 metres) of elevation gain, blends dedicated multi-use paths with shared road sections, taking about 2 hours and 10 minutes to complete.
To make the most of your ride, consider starting early, especially on weekends, to enjoy the coastal stretches with less traffic. The loop offers multiple access points as it's integrated into the larger East Coast Greenway network. While much of the terrain is flat, the varied surfaces, including paved, gravel, and some natural dirt, mean it's best for cyclists comfortable with different conditions.
This loop is a key segment of the ambitious 3,000-mile East Coast Greenway, connecting Maine to Florida, making it a significant route for both local rides and longer tours. The opportunity to potentially walk out to Charles Island from Silver Sands State Park Beach at low tide adds a unique natural feature to this scenic coastal journey.
5.0
(4)
13
riders
79.6km
04:35
260m
260m
This section of the East Coast Greenway offers a diverse touring cycling experience, transitioning from urban areas to scenic coastal views along the Long Island Sound. You'll find expansive green marshland and calm waters, especially as you pass highlights like Silver Sands State Park Beach and Oyster River Beach. The route is largely paved, providing a smooth ride, but be prepared for some urban stretches that can be busy. It's a moderate ride, covering 49.5 miles (79.6 km) with 840 feet (256 metres) of elevation gain.
Expect to spend about 4 hours and 34 minutes on this route, which is suitable for cyclists with a good fitness level. While mostly flat, there are some slight inclines that contribute to its moderate difficulty. New Haven is a bicycle-friendly city with a growing network of bike lanes and cycle tracks, making it a good starting or ending point. Consider wider tires (32-38 mm) for optimal comfort, as some parts of the broader Connecticut ECG network include crushed stone rail trails.
This segment is part of the larger 3,000-mile East Coast Greenway, a continuous route connecting Maine to Florida. The Connecticut portion is known for passing through historic mill towns and major cities, with about 28% of its 198 miles being off-road. The route offers a unique blend of natural features and urban infrastructure, showcasing the state's commitment to cycling.
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