Best Snowmobiling Destinations in Connecticut

As a Connecticut resident, you likely already know about some of the great winter destinations and recreational opportunities in your area. Do you know the best places to go if you have a snowmobile, though? Many of these destinations do not require an admission fee, and are typically open from 8 a.m until sunset. You can visit CT’s government website for more information about State Parks and Forests in Connecticut and their winter recreational opportunities. Looking for some fun in warmer months? Read our best off-roading trails guide.

Shenipsit State Forest

Perhaps the most distinguishing feature of this area is the scenery from Soapstone Mountain. If you make it up to the 1,075-foot summit you can stand at the watchtower and get a panoramic view of the Connecticut countryside. The six miles of trail winds around Soapstone mountain and provides steep grades and beautiful views to the west.

Fees: None.

Peoples State Forest

This forest is located in the Pleasant Valley section of Barkhamsted. This state forest is mostly known for its vast hiking trails, but also features roughly 13 miles of snowmobiling trails that wind past the Barkhamsted Lighthouse, massive cliffs, and the Cheese Box Mill. This forest is a great option for novice snowmobile riders, as it has large open areas designated for testing machines and practicing.

Fees: No charge on weekdays. On weekends and holidays, there is a $9 charge for Connecticut state registered vehicles and a $15 charge for out-of-state registered vehicles. There is also a campsite fee of $17 per night for Connecticut residents and $27 per night for non-Connecticut residents.

Housantonic State Forest

This area has a rich mining history, which makes it a very interesting place to visit and snowmobile through. The previous mining efforts left behind 20-foot long charcoal mounds in some areas that can make for a very fun ride. This forest also contains sections of the Appalachian Trail. The snowmobiling trail is slightly over 10 miles long and runs along Clay Bed Road. The trail passes through rugged Connecticut hills and is suitable for both beginners and experts.

Fees: There is a camping fee of $17 per night for Connecticut residents and $27 per night for non-residents. Rustic cabins are also available for $50 per night for residents and $60 per night for non-residents.

Pachaug State Forest

This is located in Voluntown, and snowmobiling is permitted in the Chapman area. There are approximately 50 miles of looped trails throughout this forest on unplowed forest roads and trails, and their frequent loops allow for adjustments to time and distance if needed. The trails are of an easier grade and are thus better-suited to novices.

Fees: There is a camping fee of $14 per night for Connecticut residents and $24 per night for non-residents.

Pootatuck State Forest

This is located in New Fairfield and features approximately 4.3 miles of looped snowmobiling trails. The trail begins in the parking lot, travels west followed by north for about 0.6 miles over unplowed forest roads, and leads to two one-way loops over rugged forest terrain.

Fees: None.

About Byrnes Agency

Wherever you choose to go snowmobiling, it’s important to ensure that you are protected financially from potential damages or injuries with a Windham County Snowmobile Insurance policy. You can depend on the Byrnes Agency and our staff to help protect you when it comes to your Personal Insurance needs. Please contact us at one of our three locations throughout Connecticut to learn more about the coverages that we offer.

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Dayville Office

Phone: (860) 774-8549
394 Lake Rd
Dayville, CT 06241
United States
info@byrnesagency.com
Hours of Operation: Monday- Friday 9:00am-5:00pm

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Norwich Office

Phone: (860) 886-5498
6 Consumers Avenue
Norwich, CT 06360
United States
info@byrnesagency.com
Hours of Operation: Monday- Friday 9:00am-5:00pm