My rating is primarily based on riding a bike on this trail, because the whole point for me going here was too get some exercise, bike riding, but also to see nature, so not all bad. The issue I had with this place is it is very bumpy to ride a bike on, and I have a rigid frame, so not very comfortable. It is also more narrow compared with other trails I’ve ridden on. There is a heavy crown throughout the bike path. Circling back to the nature comment, there are lots of large birds in the area that you don’t see where I’m from on a day-to-day basis, so that was cool. Also, spotted some kind of canine/wild animal walking across a wall in the distance and through some trees… That was interesting to me. The trail runs along the Connecticut River on one side and the Windsor Locks Canal on the other side. Much of the view is covered by trees/greenery. There are a couple/few porto potties strategically placed near the parking areas, which can be helpful. It seems to me, this place is better to walk on than it is to...
Read moreOn a gorgeous tobacco-harvest-day, walked south from the Suffield entry. Parking lot and picnic area in great shape. Super views from the trail of the shallow, rocky river; on this day chockablock with cormorant, gulls, geese, ducks, heron, egret and what looked to be a good deal of invasive greenery along the eastern bank.
The paved towpath is narrow and there's little opportunity for benches, in case they're a feature anyone needs whilst on a walk. There's intermittent shade, so come prepared.
Perhaps because of the current drought, the canal's water was very low and greenish. When the breeze came from the west, pretty smelly, too. Plenty of birds in the trees & bushes & farmer's field.
The pavement could use some work, but it's probably fine for most walkers. Nice to get so close...
Read moreWindsor Locks Canal State Park is a great spot for a day outdoors. The trail is perfect for walking, running, and biking, and its lack of road crossings makes it a wonderfully safe place for kids to ride their bikes. The trail is also very dog-friendly. It's a joy to see so many dogs out with their owners, and all are well-behaved and kept on leashes. While the ride isn't particularly smooth and the path could definitely use some repaving, it's still a very enjoyable route with no major obstacles. For visitors, a great improvement would be to trim back some of the trees along the river. This would open up the beautiful views and allow everyone to fully appreciate the scenery. Overall, it's a great park and a highly recommended destination for the whole family, including your...
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