From Danbury · Appalachian Ride · 41 & 4

This full-day version starts in Danbury. The first 48 miles go out on back roads, mostly US-202 and US-7, to Winsted, where the good part begins. The core stretch, Appalachian Ride · 41 & 4, runs 56 miles to Torrington.

The ride home is the quick way: 48 miles on I-84 and CT-8 back to Danbury. All in, it's about 152 miles and 4.5 hours in the saddle, before any stops for gas, food or photos. There's time to take it easy.

Full-day version that starts in Danbury: it adds the ride there and back to Appalachian Ride · 41 & 4. Here is what you'll find on the core stretch:

The most mountainous corner of the state. From Winsted you cross to Norfolk and Canaan on US-44, ride CT-41 between Salisbury and Sharon, and from Sharon CT-4 takes you down to Cornwall Bridge on one of Connecticut's best descents before continuing to Goshen and Torrington. Best for an experienced pack: steep grades and some rough pavement. Towns get busy in the fall, so book ahead if you plan to stay over.