Moosup Valley State Park Trail

The trail has seen significant improvements in 2024, including new parking lots. You can find accessible parking areas at various points along the trail in Plainfield and Sterling, Connecticut. An ADA accessible entrance was also added, making it easier for everyone to start their journey.

Yes, the trail is generally dog-friendly. However, please ensure your dog is kept on a leash at all times to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all users. Always remember to clean up after your pet.

The trail offers a pleasant experience throughout the year. Spring brings lush greenery and blooming wildflowers, while autumn showcases vibrant fall foliage. Summer is great for longer days, and even winter can be beautiful for a quiet, snowy hike. Recent improvements in 2024, including new drainage, have made the trail more enjoyable in various conditions.

No, there are no permits required or entrance fees to access the Moosup Valley State Park Trail. It is a public state park trail, freely accessible for hiking, biking, and other recreational activities.

The trail follows an abandoned railroad bed, so it's predominantly flat with minimal elevation gain. The surface varies, featuring paved sections, crushed stone, and packed dirt. While some older sections might have railroad ballast or be muddy, significant resurfacing with crushed stone dust in 2024 has greatly improved the overall condition, making it suitable for diverse activities.

The Moosup Valley State Park Trail is a linear trail spanning approximately 5.8 miles through eastern Connecticut. It is not a loop, but it connects seamlessly to Rhode Island's Trestle Trail at the state border, which then joins the Washington Secondary Bike Path, allowing for much longer, extended journeys.

Yes, the trail is generally considered easy, especially its flat and newly resurfaced sections, making it very suitable for beginners and families. However, some rocky side paths or older, unimproved sections can be more challenging with mud and uneven surfaces, offering options for various ability levels.

You'll enjoy a bucolic and rural setting, often alongside the Moosup River. The trail passes through woodlands and wetlands, offering scenic views of old trestle bridges, deep rock cuts, and picturesque Sterling Pond. Keep an eye out for local wildlife such as deer and fox, especially during quieter times of day.

Yes, it's a key segment of the ambitious planned East Coast Greenway, a 3,000-mile path from Maine to Florida. It also connects directly to Rhode Island's Trestle Trail, which then links to the Washington Secondary Bike Path, offering extensive options for longer adventures.

Absolutely! As a historic rail-trail, you'll encounter remnants of its past, including old trestle bridges and deep rock cuts from the original railway construction. The trail also frequently hugs the Moosup River, providing consistent riverside views, and you might spot remnants of former industrial mills and a historic dam.

Given the varied terrain, comfortable walking or hiking shoes are recommended. Dress in layers, as conditions can change, and bring water, especially on warmer days. Insect repellent can be useful during warmer months, and a camera to capture the scenic views is always a good idea.