Hartford Reservoir Number 1

The Hartford Reservoir loop offers a delightful touring cycling experience, guiding you through dense woodlands and open fields with impressive views of Hartford Reservoir Number 1 and Hartford Reservoir Number 5. The terrain is varied, featuring both paved sections and wide dirt or crushed gravel paths, providing a pleasant surface for your tires. This easy 6.5-mile (10.4 km) route, with a gentle 391 feet (119 metres) of elevation gain, is perfect for a relaxing ride where you can spot local wildlife like deer and various bird species.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the complex has multiple entry points and parking areas, including off Farmington Avenue and Albany Avenue. The trails are open from sunrise to sunset throughout the year, so you can enjoy the natural beauty in any season. Remember to wear a helmet, as it's required for all bicyclists, and be courteous to hikers and runners on shared paths.

This trail is part of an extensive network managed by the Metropolitan District Commission (MDC), which supplies water to Hartford and surrounding towns. The area is a natural oasis, offering a diverse range of trails that connect to other paths like the Metacomet Trail, providing options for longer explorations. It's a great choice for a family-friendly bike route or a quick, refreshing spin in nature.

Cycle the Farmington Canal and River Trail Loop, a 31.8-mile route through varied landscapes, historical sites, and river views in Connectic