CT: Tolland & New London- Airline Trail (Hebron & Colchester)

Follow the ghost train!

Originally an inland railroad connecting New Haven to Boston, the airline trail was blasted amongst the ridges, woodlands and valleys to transport its passengers as the shortest path to be made through the “air.”

More recently, this trail is now used for recreational walks and biking with scenic views over 44 miles. An easy bike trail with many points of interests along the way which likely was true as well when the bright white “ghost train” used to ride through.

Today’s bike journey began at the intersection Route 149 and Route 2 at the commuter lot.

At first I was disappointed in getting a flat but an unexpected message on a bench and my subsequent discoveries in Colchester with a bike shop and good food made me otherwise feel fortunate. Refer to separate blog on Red Rose Desserts and more.

But when near Colchester, a great stop would be to grab some farmstead cheese at Cato corner! See separate blog about my favorite cheese and pictures of their farm and animals.

Within the town of Hebron lies Grayville Falls park. A very short detour off the trail, I decided to check out if the name meant there was a water feature. To my surprise a long meandering waterfall appeared which reminded me of a water slide. Long and low I can imagine returning on a warm summers day (#rola).

I was naturally allured by the fallen tree across the waterfall in hopes to capture a unique perspective. Not sure that I succeeded but I had a really great time trying.

The route also sent me through the Raymond Brook Marsh in Hebron. I honestly was so taken by the number of turtles and reflecting watercolors luring me into the marsh.

The above is a small portion of this 44 mile trail! The biking is easy and if you choose to stay present and pivot and pause the number of turtles, waterfalls and babbling brooks are encouraging your attention.

More blogs to come on other sections of the airline trail! Meanwhile read my blog on fun things to do in the Colchester area!

https://btographytravels.com/2020/11/26/ct-new-london-county-colchester-tour/

This link has some history and an old photo of the train.

https://www.lebanontownhall.org/air-line-trail-state-park/pages/history