Summertime is the perfect season to get out and explore on your dirt bike. If you live in Connecticut, you’re in luck—there are plenty of great trails to choose from. Here are our top six picks for the best dirt bike trails in Connecticut.
6 Best Dirt Biking Trails in Connecticut
- Thomastan Dam
- Pachaug State Forest
- Milford Riders Motocross Club
- Cockaponset State Forest
- Shenipsit State Forest
- Central Cycle Club
Biking along the Thomaston Dam
The Thomaston Dam is a popular biking spot in Connecticut. The dam itself is 3/4 of a mile long and spans the Mattabesett River. There are two bike trails that wind along the river, one on each side of the dam. The north trail is shorter, at just over a mile, while the south trail is a bit longer at 1.5 miles.
The north trail is considered the easier of the two, with gentle inclines and no major obstacles. It’s a great trail for beginners or for those looking for an easy ride. The south trail is a bit more challenging, with some steeper inclines and more rocks and roots to watch out for. However, the south trail has some truly stunning views of the river, so it’s worth taking on the challenge!
There are several other dams in Connecticut that are also popular with bikers, but Thomaston Dam is definitely one of the best. So next time you’re looking for a new place to explore on your bike, be sure to check it out!
The Thomaston Dam is a great spot for biking, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider. With two trails to choose from, there’s something for everyone! So next time you’re in the area, be sure to check it out!
Pachaug State Forest: A Biker’s Dream Come True
If you’re a fan of dirt biking, then you’ll definitely want to check out Connecticut’s Pachaug State Forest. Covering nearly 8,000 acres of land, Pachaug State Forest is the largest state forest in all of Connecticut. And believe me, there’s plenty of trails to keep you busy! In fact, the forest is home to over 200 miles of trails that are perfect for dirt biking.
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, there’s definitely a trail that’s perfect for you. And if you get tired of dirt biking, there are plenty of other activities to do in the Forest, like hiking, camping, fishing, and picnicking. So what are you waiting for? Load up your bike and head on down to Pachaug State Forest!
The Beginner Trails
If you’re just getting started with dirt biking, then you’ll definitely want to check out the beginner trails at Pachaug State Forest. These trails are perfect if you’re still getting used to riding your bike or if you’re not quite ready for the more challenging trails.
One beginner trail that’s perfect for those hot summer days is the beach trail. This trail takes you right along the shoreline of Long Island Sound, so you can enjoy the cool ocean breeze as you ride. And when you’re done with the beach trail, make sure to check out some of the other beginner trails in the Forest, like the Hemlock Loop Trail and the Mattatuck Trail.
The Intermediate Trails
Once you’ve mastered the beginner trails, it’ll be time to move on to the intermediate trails. These trails are a bit more challenging than the beginner trails but they’re still definitely doable for most bikers.
A great intermediate trail to start with is the Green Falls Brook Trail. This trail takes you through some of the most scenic parts of the forest and it’s always a blast to ride. Another great intermediate trail is the Mt. Misery Ridge Trail. This one will really test your skills as a biker but it’s definitely worth it when you reach the top and see stunning views of Pachaug Pond far below.
The Advanced Trails
And finally, we have the advanced trails. These trails are not for beginners or even intermediate riders—they’re only for those who have mastered all aspects of dirt biking and are looking for a real challenge.
One advanced trail that’s sure to get your heart racing is the Rockland Preserve Trail. This trail is notoriously difficult but it’s also incredibly rewarding—especially when you reach the top and take in sweeping views of both Rockland Preserve and Pachaug State Forest. Another advanced trail worth checking out is Rohde Island Trail—just be prepared for a long and strenuous ride!
Pachaug State Forest is an absolute paradise for bikers of all skill levels— no matter what kind of bike you have or how much experience you have, there’s definitely a trail here that’s perfect for you. So what are you waiting for? Load up your bike and hit the trails today!
Milford Riders Motocross Club
The Milford Riders Motocross Club is the perfect place for beginners and experienced racers alike. Here’s what you need to know about our club.
WeRace Clean and Safe
The Milford Riders Motocross Club is all about clean and safe racing. We believe that motocross should be fun for everyone involved, and that means racing fair and square. All of our members are expected to race clean and follow the rules of the track. This is non-negotiable. We also have a strict no tolerance policy when it comes to drugs or alcohol. We want our members to be in it for the love of the sport, not because they’re looking for an adrenaline rush.
We’re Serious About Safety
Your safety is our number one priority. That’s why we require all of our members to wear the proper safety gear while on the track. This includes a helmet, gloves, boots, elbow pads, and knee pads. We also conduct regular safety meetings to go over track conditions and any changes that need to be made. We want everyone to have a fun and safe experience while racing with us.
We Support Our Local Community
The Milford Riders Motocross Club is more than just a group of people who like to ride bikes—we’re also a close-knit community that supports each other both on and off the track. We regularly hold fundraisers for local charities and causes that are important to our members. And we also provide free skills clinics for beginner riders who are interested in joining the club but aren’t quite sure where to start. Come ride with us and see what we’re all about!
Whether you’re just getting started in motocross racing or you’re looking for a new club to call home, the Milford Riders Motocross Club is the perfect place for you. We pride ourselves on being a clean and safe club that supports its members both on and off the track. Come check us out—we can’t wait to ride with you!
Cockaponset State Forest
Cockaponset State Forest is a great place to ride your dirt bike! The forest offers miles of trails to explore, and there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, you’ll find plenty of challenges and scenery to enjoy. Here’s what you need to know before you hit the trails.
Location and Hours
Cockaponset State Forest is located in Haddam and East Haddam, Connecticut. The Forest is open from 8:00 am to sunset year-round. Please note that certain areas of the forest are closed to bikes from March 15 through June 15 to protect nesting wildlife. For up-to-date information on which trails are open, please check the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection website.
Trail Map
Before you head out on the trail, be sure to pick up a copy of the Cockaponset State Forest trail map at the entrance gate or online. The map will help you stay safe and avoid getting lost in the forest.
Riding Tips
Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your ride:
- Ride with a friend if possible. Not only is it more fun, but it’s also safer.
- Stay on marked trails at all times. Riding off-trail damages plant life and can erode trails.
- Be courteous to other trail users and yield to hikers and horseback riders.
- Be prepared for obstacles like logs, rocks, and stream crossings. Take your time and use caution when riding over them.
- Inspect your bike before riding and after each break to make sure everything is in good working order.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks for yourself, as well as a first-aid kit in case of emergencies.
- Tell someone else where you’re going and when you’ll be back before heading out on the trail.
With these tips in mind, you’re ready to hit the trails! Cockaponset State Forest is a great place to ride, so strap on your helmet and enjoy the ride!
Now that you know about all the great things Cockaponset State forest has to offer bikers, what are you waiting for? Grab your gear and hit the trails! Just be sure to obey all signs and stay on marked trails—and don’t forget to have fun!
Shenipsit State forest
Tucked away in central Connecticut, Shenipsit State Forest is a hidden gem just waiting to be discovered. This massive state forest covers more than 16,000 acres and offers something for everyone, from avid hikers and bikers to bird watchers and nature lovers. Here’s a quick guide to everything this beautiful spot has to offer.
Hiking & Biking Trails
One of the best things about Shenipsit State forest is the sheer amount of hiking and biking trails available. Whether you’re looking for an easy stroll or a challenging hike, you’ll find what you’re looking for here. And with more than 100 miles of trails crisscrossing the forest, you could spend days exploring and still not see it all! If you’re bringing your bike, make sure to stick to the designated biking trails—the hilly terrain can make for some tough riding if you’re not prepared!
Bird Watching & Wildlife Viewing
Another great activity to enjoy in Shenipsit State Forest is bird watching. The forest is home to more than 170 different species of birds, so bring your binoculars and see how many you can spot! You might also catch a glimpse of some other local wildlife, including white-tailed deer, red squirrels, and even the occasional black bear. Just remember to give them their space and enjoy the view from afar.
Fishing & Boating
If you’re a fan of fishing, you’ll be happy to know that there are plenty of opportunities to cast a line in Shenipsit State Forest. There are four lakes located within the Forest boundaries—Shenipsit Lake, Cadogan Pond, Mumford Pond, and person Pond—and each one is stocked with trout annually. Bass, pickerel, and catfish can also be found in the lakes (with a valid state fishing license, of course!). If you don’t have your own boat, no worries—you can rent a canoe or rowboat from the Park office on weekdays from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Whether you’re looking for a peaceful nature getaway or an adrenaline-pumping outdoor adventure, Shenipsit State Forest has something for everyone. So what are you waiting for? Grab your hiking boots or your bike helmet and head on over to discover this hidden gem for yourself!
Connecticut’s Central Cycle Club is the Place to Be for Dirt Bikers!
Are you a dirt bike enthusiast? If so, you won’t want to miss out on becoming a member of Connecticut’s Central Cycle Club! We are a group of like-minded individuals who love nothing more than spending time out on the trails, enjoying the fresh air and getting our adrenaline pumping.
Not only do we offer a supportive and friendly environment for all skill levels, but we also organize regular meetups and events so that our members can socialize and have fun together. Trust us, there’s nothing quite like bonding with fellow bikers over a cold beer after a long day of riding!
Still not convinced? Here are three more reasons why you should become a member of CCCC today:
We Have the Best Trails in the State
One of the things that sets CCCC apart from other clubs is our amazing trails. Our central location means that we have easy access to some of the best riding terrain in Connecticut. No matter what your skill level is, we guarantee that you’ll find trails to suit your needs.
We’re Also a Great Place to Make New Friends
Aside from being passionate about dirt biking, our members also share a love for good company. That’s why we’re such a great place to make new friends! Whether you’re looking for someone to ride with or just want to chat about bikes over a beer, you’ll fit right in at CCCC.
Another great benefit of being a member of CCCC is that you’ll get exclusive discounts at our online store. From riding gear to parts and accessories, we’ve got everything you need to keep your bike in top condition. Plus, as a member, you’ll always be among the first to know about new products and upcoming sales!
So what are you waiting for? Come join us today and see what all the fuss is about! With awesome trails, great deals, and plenty of chances to socialize, there’s no reason not to become a member of CCCC. We can’t wait to meet you!
