Air Line Trail FAQ

Are the Air Line Trail and Southern New England Trunkline Trail (SNETT) paved?

You'll encounter trail surfaces of crushed rock, gravel, and compacted earth. But none of the trail is paved except for some on-road connections between trail sections and some brief in-town portions.

Where are the viaducts?

The Lyman Viaduct and the Rapallo Viaduct are located on the western end of the trail, between East Hampton and North Westchester. The Blackledge River Bridge is also along this section, closer to North Westchester. Click the links in the previous sentences to see the locations on maps.

But the Lyman and Rapallo viaducts have both been covered in gravel fill, so you may never even realize you are crossing viaducts. You'll never see the actual old bridges. Here's a photo from the top of the Lyman Viaduct:

Are e-bikes allowed on the Air Line State Trail?

Yes, e-bikes are allowed.

How long will it take me to get from point A to point B?

Most leisurely riders travel at speeds of 8 to 12 MPH, while "intense" riders may be more like 15 to 20 MPH.

If you normally ride on paved surfaces, you will find your speed to be a few MPH slower on gravel, dirt, and crushed stone.

Use the Air Line Trail Timeline Tool to help estimate how long it might take you to reach specific towns along your route.

What activities are allowed?

Both the Air Line State Park and Southern New England Trunkline Trail (SNETT) allow:

Biking
Hiking
Cross-country skiing
Equestrian (horseback)

Neither trail allows off-road vehicles or snowmobiles.

Do I have to pay to use the trail?

No, the Air Line Trail is free to use. There is no charge to use the SNETT, but there is a fee to park at Douglas State Forest.

Are pets allowed?

Yes, pets may use both the Air Line Trail and the SNETT - but must be on a leash no longer than 7 feet. Please pick up after your pet, and be alert for the approach of other trail users.

Where can I report problems or maintenance issues with the trail?

For the Air Line State Park Trail, contact CT State Parks at deep.stateparks@ct.gov / 860-424-3200.

For the Southern New England Trunkline Trail, contact Massachusetts State Parks at douglas.forest@state.ma.us / 508-476-7872