From East Hartford to Portland, the 15-mile Charter Oak Greenway Trail in central Connecticut is a beautiful walkway. This multi-use path is well-liked by walkers, joggers, cyclists, and rollerbladers because it provides breathtaking views of the natural world and passes by some of the state’s most significant historical and cultural landmarks. Visitors can explore the beauty and history of Cromwell, Connecticut, on foot or by bike thanks to the trail’s passage through the town. We will examine the highlights of the Cromwell, Connecticut, Charter Oak Greenway Trail in this article.
Starting at Main Street and Route 99, the section of the Charter Oak Greenway Trail that passes through Cromwell travels south for roughly 4.6 miles. All levels of walkers and cyclists can use the trail because it is paved and mostly flat. Visitors can take in a variety of picturesque views along the way, including the Connecticut River, forested areas, and several parks.
The Cromwell Meadows Wildlife Management Area is one of the trail’s best features. For a variety of wildlife species, including deer, coyotes, foxes, and numerous bird species, this 420-acre park serves as a natural habitat. The park’s trails can be explored by visitors, and they pass through forested areas and along the Connecticut River, providing beautiful views of the river and the surroundings. The park is a well-liked location for birdwatching, and there are numerous bird blinds thoughtfully positioned all around the area. In addition, visitors can go kayaking, canoeing, and fishing on the Connecticut River.
River Highlands State Park is another destination along Cromwell’s Charter Oak Greenway Trail. On the west bank of the Connecticut River, this 139-acre park offers breathtaking views of the river and the hills in the area. The park is well-liked for outdoor activities because it has picnic areas, hiking trails, and a boat launch. The park’s historic elements, which include a 1913-built stone arch bridge and the ruins of a former railroad trestle that crossed the river, are also accessible to visitors.
The trail travels through a number of parks, including Cromwell Greenway and Beman Park, as it heads south. The trail’s neighboring park, Cromwell Greenway, is an 8-acre space with a playground, picnic area, and multipurpose field. A 21-acre park called Beman Park has a pond, a fishing pier, picnic areas, and trails that go through wooded areas. Both parks offer visitors a chance to pause from hiking and take in the splendor of the outdoors.
The Rocky Hill-Glastonbury Ferry is one of the most distinctive aspects of Cromwell’s Charter Oak Greenway Trail. Between Rocky Hill and Glastonbury, the Connecticut River can be crossed on this iconic ferry, which has been running since 1655. Just off the trail, there is a ferry that can be reached by taking a brief detour. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the water and the surroundings while traveling across the river on a scenic ride. The ferry is a well-liked attraction for both locals and tourists, and it is open from May to October.
The trail also passes by the Joseph B. Stevens VFW Post #10688 Memorial for history buffs. The town’s veterans, including those who served in World War I, World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War, are honored by this memorial. Numerous statues and plaques honor the town’s veterans and their contributions to the nation as part of the memorial.
The Charter Oak Greenway Trail not only offers recreational opportunities, but it also connects numerous communities and offers a secure and environmentally friendly alternative to driving. Numerous bus routes stop at or close to the trailhead, giving the trail users access to public transportation as well.
Overall, the Cromwell neighborhood and the greater Hartford area benefit greatly from the Charter Oak Greenway Trail. It is a well-liked destination for walkers, runners, cyclists, and commuters alike due to its scenic beauty, recreational opportunities, and transportation advantages. The Charter Oak Greenway Trail is a prime location that should not be missed, whether you are a local resident looking for a convenient way to stay active and enjoy the outdoors or a visitor looking to explore the natural beauty of central Connecticut.