The best road cycling routes around Putnam
4.7
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Road cycling routes around Putnam traverse a landscape characterized by rolling hills, open spaces, and forested preserves. The region features varied terrain, including climbs up hills like Brandy Hill and Wallum Pond Hill, alongside routes that pass through scenic areas such as Tucker Preserve and Woodstock Avenue Open Space. Road cyclists can expect a mix of elevation changes, with routes often following local roads through the countryside.
Best road cycling routes around Putnam
- The most popular road cycling route is…
Last updated: July 2, 2026
5.0
(1)
11
riders
43.6km
02:32
400m
400m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
7
riders
38.2km
01:50
290m
290m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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4
riders
64.4km
03:02
520m
520m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
7
riders
35.6km
01:43
260m
260m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4
riders
60.0km
02:50
420m
420m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Tips from the Community
The Putnam River Trail is a 1.8 mile long paved trail. It is part of the East Coast Greenway Trail. As the name suggests, it follows along the Putnam River and gives you great views of the water.
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Experience breathtaking views of the Quaddick Reservoir along this scenic route. The autumn foliage accentuates the beauty, with tree-lined roads making it the quintessential New England ride!
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Thompson, a charming New England town. It was named after Sir Robert Thompson, an English landholder. There are a few historic buildings and a lovely church.
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At Cargill Falls, you'll find a dam and cascades right in the heart of the city. From the Pomfret Bridge on US-44, you can see the wide dam and several flowing channels clearly. An island splits the Quinebaug River and the dam, creating a beautiful display of cascades below as the river rushes to reconnect.
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The Putnam River Trail is a 1.8 mile long paved trail. It is part of the East Coast Greenway Trail. As the name suggests, it follows along the Putnam River and gives you great views of the water.
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Lake Chaubunagungamaug, also known as Webster Lake, is a 1,440 acre lake. It is a popular vacation spot for people all over New England, and it's likely you will see people out on the lake enjoying themselves during the peak periods. There are a lot of houses along the banks of the lake, but you are still able to get a good view.
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Wallum Pond Hill is a 663-foot hill just off of Wallum Lake Road. This is a nice climb through a pretty area, ending at the Douglas State Forest-managed Wallum Lake. If you head north from here and are looking to add a little gravel to your road ride, you can link up with the Southern New England Trunkline Trail.
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Woodstock Avenue Open Space and Sabin Street Open Space are next to each other, just separated by Little River. Ride past these tracts of green space in the fall and enjoy the trees changing color.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect on road cycling routes around Putnam?
Road cycling routes around Putnam feature a diverse landscape of rolling hills, open spaces, and forested preserves. You'll encounter varied terrain, including climbs up hills like Brandy Hill and Wallum Pond Hill, as well as routes that follow local roads through scenic countryside.
Are there easy road cycling routes suitable for beginners in Putnam?
Yes, Putnam offers several easy road cycling routes. For instance, the Old Daniels Dam – Brandy Hill loop from Killingly is an easy trail that leads through varied terrain with some climbs, making it a good option for those new to road cycling.
How many road cycling routes are available in the Putnam area?
There are over 30 road cycling routes available around Putnam, catering to various skill levels from easy to difficult. This includes 5 easy routes, 28 moderate routes, and 1 difficult route.
What are some scenic highlights or viewpoints along the road cycling routes?
Many routes offer scenic views through open spaces and preserves. For example, the Tucker Preserve scenic road – Woodstock Avenue Open Space loop from Putnam provides beautiful vistas. You can also pass by natural attractions like Cargill Falls Reservoir and Richardson Pond.
Are there any loop road cycling routes in Putnam?
Yes, many road cycling routes in Putnam are loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the Brandy Hill – Wallum Pond Hill loop from Quaddick State Forest and the Cargill Falls Reservoir – Putnam River Trail loop from Putnam.
What is the best time of year for road biking in Putnam?
The best time for road biking in Putnam is typically during the spring, summer, and fall months when the weather is mild and the scenery is vibrant. The region's rolling hills and forested areas are particularly beautiful during autumn foliage.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about road cycling in Putnam?
The road cycling routes in Putnam are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, the mix of elevation changes, and the scenic beauty of the preserves and open country roads.
Are there any longer or more challenging road cycling routes for experienced riders?
Yes, for more experienced riders seeking longer distances and greater elevation, routes like the Woodstock Avenue Open Space – Brandy Hill loop from Dayville offer a significant challenge with over 500 meters of elevation gain over 64 kilometers.
What attractions can I see near the road cycling routes in Putnam?
Beyond the cycling itself, you can explore several attractions. Notable points of interest include the Putnam River Trail, the historic Old Daniels Dam, and the impressive West Thompson Dam. There are also several beautiful lakes and reservoirs such as Quaddick Reservoir and Acme Pond Waterfall.
Are there road cycling routes that pass by water features like lakes or rivers?
Absolutely. Several routes will take you past beautiful water features. The Cargill Falls Reservoir – Putnam River Trail loop from Putnam, for example, offers views of the reservoir and follows the river trail. You might also encounter Richardson Pond and Quaddick Reservoir on other routes.
Are there any specific preserves or open spaces that road cyclists can explore?
Yes, the region is known for its preserves and open spaces. Routes often pass through areas like Tucker Preserve and Woodstock Avenue Open Space, offering a chance to experience the natural beauty of Putnam while cycling.
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