The best MTB trails around Simsbury Center
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Mountain biking around Simsbury Center offers diverse terrain, from multi-use trails along old railroad lines to challenging singletrack in hilly, forested areas. The region features a blend of natural landscapes, including river valleys, traprock ridges, and extensive woodlands. Riders can find paths suitable for various skill levels, with options for both leisurely rides and more demanding climbs.
Best mountain bike trails around Simsbury Center
- The most popular mountain bike trail is Penwood State Park Yellow and Red Trail Loop, an easy 3.7 miles (6.0 km) trail that takes about 28 minutes to complete, winding through forested parkland.
- Another top favourite among local mountain bikers is Mountainbike loop from Hartford County, a moderate 13.3 miles (21.4 km) path. This route offers varied terrain and takes approximately 1 hour 47 minutes to complete.
- Local mountain bikers also love the Hatchett Hill – Laurel Hill loop from Hallview I Open Space, a 14.9 miles (23.9 km) trail leading through hilly and rugged terrain, often completed in about 2 hours 14 minutes.
- Mountain biking around Simsbury Center is defined by extensive trail networks, varied elevation changes, and forested landscapes. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy multi-use paths to difficult singletrack.
- The routes in Simsbury Center are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.0 stars from 2 reviews. More than 60 mountain bikers have used komoot to explore Simsbury Center's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 28, 2026
5.98km
00:28
110m
100m
Explore Penwood State Park on this easy 3.7-mile loop, offering forest views and an elevation gain of 352 feet, designated for foot travel.
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45
riders
17.0km
01:34
240m
240m
Hard mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
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9
riders
21.4km
01:47
290m
290m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Advanced riding skills necessary.
7
riders
Moderate mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Advanced riding skills necessary.
4
riders
46.3km
02:27
220m
220m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Reservoir #3 has a paved path that runs alongside it, so you can enjoy other trails in the area and then ride the pavement afterward—perfect for a chilled out-and-back ride or looping the reservoir network.
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Believe it or not, tobacco used to be big business in Connecticut. The characteristic construction of these barns allowed enough airflow that the tobacco could be hung and air-dried within the shelter of the building.
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The Farmington Canal Heritage Trail offers a scenic and easy ride through Cheshire and Hamden. These routes begin at the Lock 12 parking lot in Cheshire, following the original canal and rail line. The paved, mostly level trail is easy for biking and walking, with partial shade except during midday. Stretching 56 miles, the trail, along with the Farmington River Trail, forms one of New England’s most picturesque and historic greenways. Running through 11 Connecticut towns, the trail has been designated a Community Millennium Trail for its importance here to local communities.
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The Farmington Canal Heritage Trail is over 80 miles in each direction and follows the path of an old railroad line. It's a great spot for biking and is suitable for pretty much all tire widths. This section near Simsbury connects to some of the other trails in town and passes through a few of the city's parks.
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New Haven and Northampton Canal Greenway is an 84 mile trail from New Haven, CT to Northampton, MA. The path at this point is also known as the Farmington Canal Heritage Trail. The trail is completely paved and mostly on off road paths. There are some points where the trail briefly joins up with quiet roads.
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If you are combining bike touring with hiking, Tariffville Gorge is a wonderful stopping point to stretch your legs. You can hike up to the viewing point for spectacular views over the Farmington River. It's often fairly quiet here, so it's especially good if you are looking for some peace and solitude.
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At the northern border of West Hartford Reservoirs Recreation Area, this region presents dirt and rocky trails winding through a lush forest. The trails include bridge crossings and provide views of the creek.
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This area features six large reservoirs with over 30 miles of paved and gravel trails, spanning more than 3,000 acres of land, making it a popular destination for hikers, runners, and bikers.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many mountain bike trails are available in Simsbury Center?
Simsbury Center offers a selection of 5 mountain bike trails, catering to various skill levels. These include easy, moderate, and difficult options, ensuring there's something for every rider.
Are there easy mountain bike trails suitable for beginners in Simsbury Center?
Yes, beginners can enjoy the Penwood State Park Yellow and Red Trail Loop. This easy 3.7-mile trail winds through forested parkland and is a great option for those new to mountain biking.
What are some challenging mountain bike trails for experienced riders?
For experienced riders seeking a challenge, Simsbury Center offers routes like the Hatchett Hill loop from Tariffville, which covers 10.6 miles with significant elevation changes. Another difficult option is the Hatchett Hill – Laurel Hill loop from Hallview I Open Space, a 14.9-mile trail through hilly and rugged terrain.
Are there any moderate mountain bike routes in the area?
Yes, moderate options include the Mountainbike loop from Hartford County, a 13.3-mile path with varied terrain. Another moderate trail is the Hartford Reservoir Number 5 – West Hartford Reservoir No. 1 loop from WCCC-FM (Hartford), spanning 8.9 miles.
Can I find mountain bike trails with scenic views in Simsbury Center?
Absolutely. Many trails in Simsbury Center traverse forested landscapes and offer scenic vistas. For panoramic views, consider exploring areas near Talcott Mountain State Park, home to the Heublein Tower, which provides expansive views of the Farmington River Valley. The West Mountain Trails also offer scenic overlooks from their traprock ridge.
What kind of terrain can I expect on mountain bike trails around Simsbury Center?
The terrain around Simsbury Center is quite diverse. You'll find multi-use trails, such as sections of the Farmington Canal Heritage Trail, which are often paved or have a smooth surface. Other areas, like Hatchett Hill and West Mountain Trails, feature hilly, rugged terrain with challenging singletrack and significant elevation changes through woodlands.
Are there loop trails for mountain biking in Simsbury Center?
Yes, several mountain bike routes in Simsbury Center are designed as loops. Examples include the easy Penwood State Park Yellow and Red Trail Loop, the moderate Mountainbike loop from Hartford County, and the difficult Hatchett Hill loop from Tariffville.
What do other mountain bikers say about the trails in Simsbury Center?
The mountain bike trails in Simsbury Center are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.0 stars from 2 reviews. Over 60 mountain bikers have used komoot to explore the varied terrain, often praising the diverse options from multi-use paths to challenging singletrack.
What are some notable landmarks or attractions I can see near the mountain bike trails?
While mountain biking, you can encounter several interesting landmarks. The Farmington Canal Heritage Trail itself is a significant feature, following an old railroad line. You might also spot historic Tobacco barns in the region. For a grand view, the Heublein Tower in Talcott Mountain State Park offers panoramic vistas of the Farmington River Valley.
Is Simsbury Center a bicycle-friendly community?
Yes, Simsbury has been recognized as a 'Bicycle Friendly Community' by The League of American Cyclists. The town features numerous popular bicycle routes on town roads, including a scenic 14-mile sharrowed loop, and Simsbury Free Bike operates a regional bike share program, highlighting its commitment to cycling.
Are there any multi-use trails suitable for different types of bikes?
The Farmington Canal Heritage Trail is a prime example of a multi-use trail in the area. It's part of a larger network suitable for various tire widths, offering a mostly paved, off-road experience that connects Simsbury to other towns and parks. Stratton Brook State Park also features a scenic bike trail that was once a railroad track.
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