Top Motorcycle Roads in Connecticut
Connecticut offers a diverse range of scenic routes for motorcycle enthusiasts, from winding mountain roads to coastal drives. Before exploring the Nutmeg State, riders should be aware of the motorcycle laws in Connecticut to ensure a safe and legal journey. For those looking to venture beyond state lines, neighboring states like Massachusetts and Rhode Island also offer excellent riding opportunities.
1. Route 20 (Winstead to Granby)
Best time to ride: West to east for the best views
Location: Northern Connecticut, through Tunxis State Forest
Distance: 24 miles
Key features: Sweeping curves, elevation changes, forest scenery, views of Barkhamsted Reservoir
2. The Merritt Parkway Adventure
Location: Southern Connecticut, north of Long Island Sound
Key features: Historic parkway, unique bridges, wooded scenery
Notable feature: No large trucks or long vehicles allowed
3. Route 7
Notable attractions: Kent area for open scenery
Location: Western Connecticut, between New Milford and North Canaan
Distance: 40 miles
Key features: Follows Housatonic River, tight curves, elevation changes, views of Berkshires
4. Route 49
Best time to ride: North to south for best views
Location: Eastern Connecticut, near Rhode Island border
Distance: 22 miles
Key features: Scenic road through Patchogue State Forest, open stretches, twisting curves
Best Motorcycle Rides in Connecticut
1. Northern Border Run
- Location: Northeastern Connecticut
- Distance: 35 miles
- Key features: Small back roads, fall foliage, spring greenery, winding forested stretches
- Difficulty: Intermediate
- Notable stops: Stafford Springs for food and fuel
2. Northern Appalachian Mountains Ride
- Location: Northwestern Connecticut
- Distance: 102-105 miles
- Key features: Scenic Appalachian views, follows part of Appalachian Trail
- Difficulty: Advanced
- Notable attractions: Tunxis State Forest, Kent Falls State Park
- Best for: Multi-day trips
3. Litchfield Loop
- Location: Litchfield County
- Distance: 50 miles
- Difficulty: Intermediate
4. Durham to Old Saybrook
- Location: Southern Connecticut
- Distance: 39-42 miles
- Key features: Twisty roads, small towns, rural landscapes
- Difficulty: Beginner
- Notable attractions: Gillette Castle State Park, Lynde Point Lighthouse, Rocky Neck State Park
5. Stafford Springs to Quinebaug
- Location: Northeastern Connecticut
- Distance: 22 miles
- Key features: Technical ride with tight corners and elevation changes
- Notable attractions: Bigelow Hollow State Park
6. Connecticut Coast Scenic Drive
- Location: Southern Connecticut coastline
- Distance: 71 miles
- Key features: Coastal views, coves, inlets along Long Island Sound
- Notable stops: Mystic, Bluff Point State Park, Old Saybrook, Whitfield House
- Best for: Day-long tours with multiple stops
Planning Your Connecticut Motorcycle Adventure
When planning your motorcycle trip through Connecticut, consider the diverse landscapes and riding experiences the state offers. From the rolling hills of the northwest to the coastal plains of the south, each region provides unique scenery and road conditions.
For those interested in exploring beyond Connecticut’s borders, New York offers scenic routes through the Hudson Valley, while Vermont boasts beautiful mountain roads perfect for summer rides. To the east, Massachusetts provides a mix of coastal and inland routes, including the famous Mohawk Trail.
Remember to check weather conditions and road closures before your trip, especially during the fall foliage season when some routes can become crowded. Always prioritize safety and follow local traffic laws to ensure an enjoyable riding experience in Connecticut and its neighboring states.
Motorcycle Rides in the US by States
If you liked this article, then please subscribe to our YouTube Channel for more Bike Videos. You can also find us on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook.
Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Read more about Amazon Affiliate Disclaimer.
Vishwanath Mathpati
I am Vishwanath Mathpati, a full-time Blogger and Motorcyclist from Bidar, Karnataka. I love writing about my Motorcycles Stories and Riding Gears on this blog.
Know More About Me.
