From Hartford · US-7 along the Housatonic

This full-day version starts in Hartford. The first 52 miles go out on back roads, mostly US-202, to New Milford, where the good part begins. The core stretch, US-7 along the Housatonic, runs 38 miles to North Canaan.

The ride home is the quick way: 43 miles on US-44 back to Hartford. All in, it's about 133 miles and 4 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 US-7 along the Housatonic. Here is what you'll find on the core stretch:

The backbone of northwest Connecticut: US-7 follows the Housatonic River from New Milford to North Canaan, past covered bridges, forest and Kent Falls. Long, sweeping bends that suit a mixed pack and newer riders. Stop in Kent for fuel and food, and pull over at Bulls Bridge for the photo. On October weekends Kent fills with leaf-peeping traffic, so leave early and watch for worn pavement on some stretches.