Hartford, CT

Hop River State Park Trail

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Just east of Hartford, the Hop River State Park Trail offers a good opportunity for a long off-road run. The 20-mile dirt/gravel path follows an old rail line between Manchester (10 miles east of downtown Hartford) and Coventry, passing through Vernon, Bolton, Coventry, Andover, and Columbia. It’s a mainly wooded trail, seamless and well-marked with relatively few road crossings. Note that the first 7 miles at the western end are hilly, climbing 400 feet, and then gradual downhill toward the eastern end. There are numerous trail heads and parking areas. We’ve included a route map and links to a trail map.

Runners can also connect to the Airline State Park Trail for more rail-trail running.

Essentials
  • Up to 19 miles (36 km) one-way
  • 1,000 feet (305m) for long run over entire trail one-way west to east; First 7 miles from west is a gradual climb
  • West end: Trailhead in Manchester
  • Numerous trailheads and parking areas -- see map

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Essentials
  • Up to 19 miles (36 km) one-way
  • 1,000 feet (305m) for long run over entire trail one-way west to east; First 7 miles from west is a gradual climb
  • West end: Trailhead in Manchester
  • Numerous trailheads and parking areas -- see map