The Air Line Trail
The Old Air Line Trail is a Connecticut Greenways State Park Trail featuring historical information.
Rail Construction & Trail History
From the current live page
Rail Construction
The Rail Line, or the Air Line as it came to be called, used existing rails from New York to New Haven and began its journey to the northeast from there. On its way to Boston, the Air Line overcame tremendous obstacles in Connecticut's eastern highlands including ridges, valleys and of course, politics.
Construction began on the Air Line Trail back in the late 1860s and by 1870 the first construction milestone, track from New Haven to Middletown, Connecticut was celebrated. Three years later, in 1873, the Air Line Trail was completed as far as Windham, CT. This was an especially challenging run for the Air because of the landscape which demanded a winding or serpentine rail bed.
Brief History of the Airline Trail
The Old Air Line Trail located in East Hampton takes its name from the imaginary line drawn from New York to Boston, through the "air" so to speak, to illustrate the shortest possible route between these two major east coast cities.
The trail was originally built in 1870 as a railroad offering fashionable, and rapid transit from New York to Boston. The Air Line Trail runs today from East Hampton to Pomfret in two sections: South – from East Hampton to Windham, and North – from Windham to Pomfret – in all, it's 50 miles through the South Eastern Connecticut Towns of East Hampton, Colchester, Hebron, Lebanon, Columbia, Windham, Chaplin, Hampton and Pomfret, with an extension to Putnam and Thompson.
The Airline Trail Spans 50 Miles of Connecticut
The Airline Trail in Connecticut is a popular recreational trail that stretches approximately 50 miles, running through the central part of the state. It follows the route of the former Air Line Railroad, which was originally part of a major rail route connecting New York and Boston. The trail is known for its scenic beauty and historical significance.
Key Features of The Old Airline Trail Include:
- Scenery: The trail passes through a variety of landscapes, including forests, wetlands, and open fields. You'll encounter charming small towns and picturesque rural areas along the way.
- Activities: It's a great spot for walking, running, biking, and even horseback riding in some sections. The trail's flat terrain makes it accessible for people of all skill levels.
- History: The Air Line Railroad was an important transportation route in the 19th century, but it was eventually abandoned and repurposed as a recreational trail. The trail's name reflects its history as a "shortcut" or "airline" route between major cities.
- Access Points: There are multiple access points along the trail, making it easy to explore different segments. Some popular entry points include those in towns like East Hampton, Colchester, and Willimantic.
Tips for Visitors:
- Trail Conditions: While the trail is generally well-maintained, check local resources or trail websites for current conditions or any closures before you go.
- Wildlife: Keep an eye out for local wildlife and enjoy the natural surroundings. The trail offers great opportunities for birdwatching and observing various plant species.
- Facilities: Some sections of the trail have amenities like parking lots and restrooms, but others might be more rustic. Be prepared with water, snacks, and appropriate gear.
Visit Connecticut State Parks and Trails for more Information.
The Old Air Line Trail reminds us that East Hampton, CT has a long and rich history we can be proud of.
Trail Highlights
Air Line Trail - South Guide & Map for the Towns of East Hampton, Colchester, Hebron, and Lebanon.
Bell Town, Village Center & Lake Pocotopaug
East Hampton was called "The Bell Town of the World" centered around the bell factories. Look for the bell monument at the town center on Route 66. The Air Line Trail passes through town from Main St. (Route 66) to the Salmon River. The East Hampton Village Center is a major hub with restaurants, shopping, and access to the trail and Lake Pocotopaug. Caution: Use caution on busy roads.
Cranberry Bog
This piece of town land contains an active cranberry bog. Walk down the paved driveway and across the bridge over the stream to view the bog. Cranberries grow in low bogs, and water is used to flood the bogs during harvesting. The area contains varied wildlife and plant species.
Rapallo Viaduct
Built in 1873, this viaduct was built to span a ravine. It was 1,370 feet long and was one of the largest iron viaducts in the United States. Later filled in with soil to support heavier freight trains, it took over 11 million cubic yards of dirt to cover the structure.
Comstock Bridge
Built in 1873, this is one of three remaining covered bridges in Connecticut. The Comstock Bridge spans the Salmon River at Colchester's border near Route 16 and the Air Line Trail. The bridge is open to pedestrian traffic, and has a picnic area nearby.
- Cranberry Meadow & Main Street: Hand-capped Accessible. A large lot located near Main Street.
- Main Street: Hand-capped Accessible. Trail access from Main Street.
- Bicycle Parking: Available at various points.
Lyman Viaduct
Towering 137 feet high over Dickinson Creek, the iron viaduct was built in 1873 and later filled with dirt and rock to support heavier trains, requiring 1,100 train carloads of fill. Great views of the valley below.
Salmon River State Forest
This 6,000-acre forest features miles of hiking trails along the Salmon River. Popular for trout fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing.
River Road Bridge
Built in 1887, this historic iron truss bridge crosses the Salmon River.
Colchester Station, Town Center & Historic District
At Colchester Railroad Station, learn about the historic train depot and original spur line. From the station, follow the path to the Town Center for dining, shopping, and historical sites.
- River Road: Hand-capped Accessible and space for Horse Trailers.
- Bull Hill Road: Hand-capped Accessible.
Grayville Falls Park
This town park, connected to Salmon River State Forest, features scenic waterfalls, hemlock forests, and picnic areas.
Raymond Brook Marsh
A large wetland complex featuring diverse wildlife, waterfowl, and plant species.
Turnerville Station
Historic location of a train depot along the Air Line Trail.
- Route 85: Large parking area near "The Air Line." Hand-capped Accessible.
- Old Colchester Road: Limited parking.
- Grayville Falls Park: Parking available for trail users.
- Old Hartford Road: Hand-capped Accessible.
Switching Area
A historic section where train tracks diverged for switching cars.
Lake Williams
Formed in the late 1800s to supply water for industrial use, now a popular spot for outdoor activities.
Train Stations
Historic sites of former stations along the rail line.
- Leonard Bridge Road: Parking available.
- Cook Hill Road: Parking available.
Of Interest
The Air Line Trail is the site of the former Air Line Railroad, built to connect Boston with New York City by the shortest route possible - "as the crow flies."
Safety Tips
The Air Line Trail is a multi-use trail open to pedestrians, cyclists, and equestrians. Open sunrise to sunset.
The Complete Trail Guide
The fuller descriptions and maps below are reproduced from the official printed Air Line Trail brochure, South Guide & Map.
East Hampton
From the official Air Line Trail brochure1)Bell Town Village Center & Lake Pocotopaug
East Hampton is called "Bell Town" as it was the center of the bell making industry for the country. Taking a detour off the Trail at Cranberry Meadow onto Smith St. and traveling west leads to the Bell Town Village Center, a mecca for antique shoppers. Traveling north leads to the business center of East Hampton and Lake Pocotopaug. Caution is advised on busy roads.
2)Cranberry Bog
This pond offers benches for resting; the sights of wildflowers and sounds of bullfrogs in the summer; and picturesque ice skating and hockey games in the winter. Cranberry Meadow and Bog was once a natural cranberry producing bog. During the 1920's and 30's, the cranberries were harvested, transported to grocers, and bartered for groceries.
3)Rapallo Viaduct
Built in 1873 (as was its sister, the Lyman Viaduct, 1-1/2 miles east in Colchester), the Rapallo bears the name of a railroad director and was built for two train tracks. Originally a 1,380 ft. long bridge 60 ft. high above Flat Brook, the increasing weight of freight trains necessitated filling underneath it in 1913. The spectacular views of the marsh to the north and other natural surroundings make this a rare treat.
4)Comstock Bridge
The Comstock Bridge was built in 1791 and rebuilt in 1860. It is one of only three remaining covered bridges in Connecticut. The Comstock Bridge links East Hampton and Colchester and is approximately 1-1/4 miles south of the intersection of Colchester's Bull Hill Road and the Air Line Trail. The bridge is open to pedestrian traffic and has a picnic area nearby.
Cranberry Meadow on Smith Street - Handicapped Accessible. A large Air Line Railroad sign highlights the trailhead.
Main Street - Handicapped Accessible. Trail access from Memorial Garden Village Parking lot.
Colchester
From the official Air Line Trail brochure5)Lyman Viaduct
Towering 137 feet high over Dickinson's Creek, this is one of the biggest thrills of the Trail. Built in 1873 and named after David Lyman, the Air Line's first president, the Lyman was once a 1,108 foot long bridge. The increasing weight of freight trains necessitated filling the bridge to the top with gravel in 1912-13 (a culvert allows Dickinson's Creek to flow through).
6)Salmon River State Forest
This 6,115 acre forest offers miles of hiking, provides several picnic areas, and borders Day Pond State Park. Salmon River is a key river in the D.E.P.'s Atlantic Salmon restoration project, and provides water recreation activities such as fishing and spring kayaking, and has a handicap accessible fly fishing area.
7)River Road Bridge
This 22 foot long brownstone arch bridge was built in 1887 and carried trains 18' above the unpaved section of River Road, which follows the beautiful Salmon River.
8)Colchester Station, Town Center & Historic District
At Colchester Railroad's terminus lie the historic station and freight depot that once served passengers and the Hayward Rubber Complex (owned by Nathaniel Hayward, inventor of vulcanized rubber). Turning right (south) onto Lebanon Avenue leads to the Town Center, lovely Town Green, and a wide sampling of historic architecture, recognized in the National Register of Historic Places.
Bull Hill Road - Handicapped Accessible
River Road - Handicapped Accessible and can accommodate Horse Trailers. To reach the Trail, take the path through the woods south of the parking area. Or, take a detour along the unpaved portion of River Rd. following Salmon River to Bull Hill Road and access the Trail a short distance north.
Hebron
From the official Air Line Trail brochure9)Grayville Falls Park
This Town Park, connecting with Salmon River State Forest, offers the Grayville Falls of Raymond Brook, picnic areas, and hemlock forests. To reach the park, travel 1/5 mi. west from the intersection of Grayville Road and the Air Line Trail. As the Trail traverses Grayville Falls Park, one can access the park directly by descending west on a steep connecting path.
10)Raymond Brook Marsh
A unique and diverse wildlife habitat where it is possible to view heron, deer, beaver, and turtles all on a single visit. One of the largest inland wetland complexes in eastern Connecticut, the marsh lies within Hebron's Aquifer Protection Zone, a future water supply for the Town. This wetland serves to protect the water quality of Raymond Brook, an important tributary of the Salmon River where efforts are underway to restore the Atlantic Salmon fishery.
11)Turnerville Station
Near the intersection of Route 85 and the Air Line Trail lies the site of the former freight depot and passenger station. This part of Hebron, now called Amston, was once named after Phineas W. Turner, who established a thriving silk mill industrial complex here. Phineas also saw opportunity in the railroad serving his complex and became a vice president of the Air Line Railroad.
Rte 85 - Large parking area next to "Rte. 85 Lumber." Handicapped Accessible and can accommodate Horse Trailers.
Rte 207 - Limited parking.
Old Colchester Road - Limited parking.
Grayville Falls Park - Can accommodate Horse Trailers. To access the Air Line Trail from this Town Park, go east from the parking lot, cross the open meadow and then the bridge over Raymond Brook, and climb an embankment to the Trail.
Grayville Road - Handicapped Accessible where the Air Line Trail intersects Grayville Rd.
Old Hartford Road - Handicapped Accessible
Lebanon
From the official Air Line Trail brochure12)Switching Area
A spur that was used as a switching area for passing trains can be seen on the northern side of the trail.
13)Lake Williams
This area was first made popular when the train brought visitors from New York City to vacation at local farms and at the resort at Williams Pond. The pond was enlarged as clay was excavated to supply a local brickyard. Today, the pond is called Lake Williams and the Spa at Grand Lake is still operating at the southern end of the lake.
14)Train Stations
Stations were located at the Leonard Bridge and Chestnut Hill (Route 87) crossings. Local farmers brought their milk, vegetables and fruit to send to market. Small mills also used the train to transport their products and school children rode the train to the area high school in Willimantic.
Beautiful arched bridges can be found at stream crossings under the trail. Many of these bridges were built with brownstone from Connecticut quarries.
Limited parking is available at Leonard Bridge Road, Chesbro Bridge Road, Village Hill Road, and all cross roads in Lebanon.
All sections of the trail in Lebanon are now open, allowing you to walk, run or ride from East Hampton center to the Willimantic River on completed trail.
General Information & Safety
For More Information
- CT DEEP: www.ct.gov/deep/airlinetrail
- East Hampton Parks & Recreation: (860) 267-6020
- Colchester Parks & Recreation: (860) 537-7297
- Hebron Parks & Recreation: (860) 228-5971 x129
- Lebanon Town Hall: (860) 642-6100
Of Interest
The Air Line Trail is the site of the former Air Line Railroad, built to connect Boston with New York City in the shortest route possible - as if by a "line" drawn through the "air" via the city of New Haven. The Air Line Railroad was a controversial project because of such obstacles as the Connecticut River and countless ridges, along with its exclusion of the capitol city of Hartford. Nevertheless, by 1873, this railroad was functioning from New Haven to Willimantic. At these points, the Air Line was able to link with other rail lines to connect New York and Boston in the shortest way then possible. The freight and passenger trains utilizing the Air Line became quite numerous. By 1877, Colchester center was linked to the Air Line at Turnerville (now Amston) via the Colchester Railroad. As the weight of freight trains increased over the years, the Air Line's weight restricting viaducts, numerous curves, and high grades eventually led to its decline.
In 1996, the Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection (now DEEP) proposed the rehabilitation of the railbed as a multipurpose trail and linear state park. The portion of the Air Line Trail in this brochure is part of the 22.95 mile southern Air Line rail corridor and also includes 3.6 miles of the Colchester Railroad spur. The southern section of the Air Line Trail links Portland, East Hampton, Colchester, Hebron-Amston, Lebanon, and Willimantic via a greenway rich in natural beauty and cultural assets. The vision is to link the Air Line Trail with the East Coast Greenway, a multi-purpose trail which proposes to connect cities from Florida to Canada along the east coast.
In a regional effort, the Towns of East Hampton, Colchester, Hebron and Lebanon have worked together to link their sections of the trail. The National Recreational Trails Act provided funding for materials, the Connecticut DEEP provided the linear park, and the four towns provided the labor and services. Enthusiastic volunteers and town employees enabled the development of the multi-purpose trail in an efficient, focused manner. Work on sections of the Air Line Trail is on-going. All interested in assisting in the enhancement or maintenance of the Trail are encouraged to contact their local Parks and Recreation Department.
Enjoy and please help to protect our trail! Take only pictures, leave only footprints.
Safety Tips
For ensuring the enjoyment of all
The Air Line Trail is for non-motorized use (except for wheelchairs) and is open dawn to dusk.
Recommended: walking, bicycling, wheelchair use, horseback riding, dog walking (leashed), cross-country skiing.
Prohibited: motorized vehicles, ATVs, snowmobiles, and motorized bikes.
- Keep to right, pass to left, call out before passing.
- Bicyclists - when approaching horses, dismount and ask the equestrian if it is safe to pass. This is especially important in the viaduct and bridge areas.
- State law requires that pets are leashed and please clean up after your animal(s).
- Supervise youngsters, especially near bridges, viaducts, and road crossings.
- Wear bright clothing, especially during the fall and spring peak hunting seasons. Fluorescent orange or yellow vests are recommended.
- Respect private property along the trail.
- Rte. 2 interrupts the Air Line Trail from Hebron's Old Hartford Rd. to Colchester's commuter lot on Rte 149. Going east: exit the commuter lot, turn right onto Rte 149, go under Rte 2 overpass and trail begins again on right. Going west: follow trail across Old Hartford Rd., until it ends. Turn left onto Rte 149 and after Rte 2 overpass, turn left into the commuter lot.
- Caution is advised on these roads as there are no bicycle lanes and traffic may be fast or heavy. Please wear bicycle safety helmets, bright clothing and follow bicycle and pedestrian safety rules.
Connecticut State Park
Today the Old Air Line Trail in East Hampton attracts Walkers, Road Races, Hikers, Horseback Riders, Cross Country Skiing, and Nature Lovers from across the state of Connecticut looking for the fresh air and panoramic views of this Historic Connecticut State Park.
For runners looking to enjoy the trail, the Parks & Recreation Departments of Hebron, Colchester, and East Hampton, Connecticut along with the State of CT Department of Energy and Environmental Protection host an Annual Air Line Trail Ghost Run.
Scenic Views of East Hampton
Connecting Bridge
Center of Town
Cranberry Bog
Cranberry Bog Entrance
Fall Foliage
Air Line Trail
Salmon River
Air Line Trail