From Hartford · Route 20 & Barkhamsted

This full-day version starts in Hartford. The first 26 miles go out on back roads, mostly US-44, to Winsted, where the good part begins. The core stretch, Route 20 & Barkhamsted, is a 31-mile loop that comes back around to Winsted.

The ride home is the quick way: 26 miles on US-44 back to Hartford. All in, it's about 82 miles and 3 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 Hartford: it adds the ride there and back to Route 20 & Barkhamsted. Here is what you'll find on the core stretch:

A short loop of forest and water: from Winsted you head up to Riverton and follow CT-20 through Hartland and the Tunxis State Forest, run down the east side of the Barkhamsted Reservoir, cross the Saville Dam and return to Winsted. Good pavement and little traffic. Gas stations are scarce along the way, so start with a full tank.