The state of Connecticut affords visitors and residents alike some of the best winter recreational opportunities around. One of those activities is snowmobiling through several of the state’s forests.
Here are my picks for five of the best ones:
1. Shenipsit State Forest
Shenipsit State Forest is located off Gulf Road in Stafford Springs. It features a 6-mile snowmobiling trail that takes riders around the base of Soapstone Mountain. One of the distinguishing aspects of Soapstone Mountain is the scenery. If you make it to the 1,075-foot summit you can stand at the watchtower and get a panoramic view of the Connecticut countryside. While on the trail you’ll reach more modest elevations of over 800 feet. There are public restrooms available on site. Admission is free, and the park is open year-round from sunrise to sunset.
2. Peoples State Forests
The Peoples State Forests is located in Barkhamsted and features roughly 13 miles of snowmobiling trails. To access the trail, head to the Matthies Grove Recreation Area located off of East River Road. You’ll be greeted by 200-year-old white pines and remnants of bygone eras. The trails wind past the Barkhamsted Lighthouse, massive cliffs and the Cheese Box Mill. Admission is gratis, and the trails are accessible from 8 a.m. until sunset.
3. Housantonic State Forest
The Housantonic State Forest is an interesting place to go snowmobiling because of its mining history. The previous mining efforts left behind 20-foot long charcoal mounds in some areas that make for an exciting ride. The forest also contains sections of the Appalachian Trail. The snowmobiling trail is slightly over 10 miles long and runs along Clay Beds Road. It’s open year-round and there is no access fee.
4. Pachaug State Forest
The Pachaug State Forest is located in Voluntown and snowmobiling is permissible in the Chapman Area. You’ll want to head to the parking lot near the ballfield. From there you can reach approximately 50 miles of looped trails. It opens daily from 8 a.m. until sunset, and admission is gratis.
5. Pootatuck State Forest
The Pootatuck State Forest is located in New Fairfield and features slightly over 4 miles of looped snowmobiling trails. You should head towards adjacent Squantz Pond State Park on Shortwoods Road and park in its parking lot. Oddly enough, the State Forest’s snowmobiling trail is accessible through the State Park’s parking lot. There is no admission fee charged at either, and both are open daily from 8 a.m. until sunset.
My family enjoys winter sports and has traveled extensively.
More from this contributor:
Top 5 Places to Go Skiing in Connecticut
Top 5 Places to Go Ice Skating in Connecticut
Top 4 Places to Go Snow Tubing in Connecticut
Best 5 Snowboarding Hats for Florida Gators Fans