The Tour de Connecticut unites our team members, ecosystem partners and cycling enthusiasts to celebrate the state’s scenic beauty and vibrant communities. This year, we asked participants to share the moments and places that left the biggest impression on their journeys over the past three rides. Their stories highlight the diverse landscapes and historic charm that make Connecticut such a special place to explore.

Matt Storeygard 🏖️

Favorite Local Spot: Compo Beach in Westport.
Why It Stands Out: Matt was struck by the peaceful waterfront and sweeping views of Long Island Sound. “Compo Beach captures the best of Connecticut’s coastline. We stopped for a photo to take in the calm, scenic view and catch our breath before continuing on north.”

Emma Twohill 🌅

Favorite Local Spot: Bradley Point Park Trail along the West Haven Beach coastline.
Why It Stands Out: Though Emma has lived just 10 minutes from the area her entire life, this path was a recent discovery. “I often run by the main road along the beach but never knew about this beautiful park and coastline trail,” she explains. “Finding something new so close to home made it extra special.”

Doug Roth 🍑

Favorite Local Spot: A quiet stretch of road in Southington leading to Rogers Orchards.
Why It Stands Out: Doug recalls spectacular weather as the group rode along the Shuttle Meadow Reservoir and paused at Rogers Orchards—“the quintessential Connecticut farm store, with fresh produce bursting with flavor,” as he describes it. With the reservoir on one side and lush forest on the other, the peaceful road allowed the riders to pedal side-by-side and chat. “We even stopped at Long Bottom and Mine Hollow roads for a group photo with a stunning view,” Doug says.

Michael Cantor 🚢

Favorite Local Spot: The historic river ferry from Rocky Hill to South Glastonbury, followed by a countryside ride to the Connecticut coast.
Why It Stands Out: “Crossing the Connecticut River on that ferry feels like a walk back through time,” Michael says. “The ride afterward is filled with gorgeous views and a sense of pure New England charm.”

Matt McCooe 🌳

Favorite Local Spot: The serene Air Line Trail, a path built along a railroad line dating back to 1863 that once connected New York and Boston.
Why It Stands Out: “You ride through deep, beautiful woods with trees on both sides of this less-traveled path,” Matt says. The trail winds into the town of Lebanon, home to the endless green of the Historical Society building maintained by the Daughters of the American Revolution. History buffs will appreciate the nearby homes of General Trumbull and Declaration of Independence signer William Williams. “We even ran into two young Amish men building a 500-foot-tall farm,” Matt adds with a laugh. “It’s that kind of town—you can sign your William Williams to that.”

Lauren Carmody 🌞

Favorite Local Spot: Bluff Point State Park in Groton.
Why It Stands Out: “I loved the ocean breezes and rugged shorelines,” Lauren says. “And I have to admit, part of the fun was watching Doug struggle with his road bike on the park’s challenging paths.” The mix of coastal scenery and quiet trails makes Bluff Point a must-visit for any cyclist seeking a refreshing ride.

Alison Malloy ⚓

Favorite Local Spot: The Mystic River Bascule Bridge and downtown Mystic.
Why It Stands Out: Alison loved the mix of river views and lively coastal charm. “The combination of river views, salt air, and fresh goodies from Mystic’s famous Sift Bakery felt like pure Connecticut magic,” she says. “It was the perfect blend of small-town charm and waterfront beauty, exactly the kind of moment that makes the Tour so memorable.”

From historic ferries and ocean breezes to hidden trails and quiet forest roads, these stories capture the magic of exploring Connecticut on two wheels. Whether you’re seeking a challenging climb, a leisurely coastal ride or a surprise encounter with history, the Tour de Connecticut proves there’s always another discovery waiting just around the bend.