Farmington Canal Bike Path

Overview

The Farmington Canal Bike Path, officially known as the Farmington Canal Heritage Trail (FCHT), is a prominent paved multi-use pathway stretching from New Haven, Connecticut, northward to the Massachusetts town of Westfield, MA. It offers a scenic, mostly flat route for cyclists, walkers, runners, and other non-motorized users, linking a variety of urban, suburban, and rural landscapes rich in history and natural beauty.

This is an amazing option if you are new to bike touring and want to get your feet wet.  The trail is flat and on an exclusively separated path (Except for a small 5 mile section).

Historical Significance

The trail overlays the route of the former Farmington Canal (constructed 1824–1835) and the New Haven & Northampton Railroad (mid-to-late 1800s), blending transportation history with outdoor recreation.​ The original canal spanned roughly 84 miles with significant engineering achievements, including 28 locks across Connecticut, and later the canal was replaced by a railroad, traces of which are visible today.​

Route Map

Interactive map showing the complete route. Green marker indicates start point, red marker shows the end point.

Terms of UseAs with each route guide published here, cycling this route is at your own risk. Prior to setting out check current local weather, conditions, and land/road closures. While riding, obey all public and private land use restrictions and rules, carry proper safety and navigational equipment. The information found herein is simply a planning resource to be used as a point of inspiration in conjunction with your own due-diligence. In spite of the fact that this route, associated GPS track (GPX and maps), and all route guidelines were prepared under diligent research by the specified contributor and/or contributors, the accuracy of such and judgement of the author is not guaranteed. Spokenlocal.com LLC, its partners, associates, and contributors are in no way liable for personal injury, damage to personal property, or any other such situation that might happen to individual riders cycling or following this route.

Local Businesses

🍽️ Mahmouns - Best Mideastern places ever!
🏨 Coastal Inn B&B (Midpoint, km 42) - Charming bed & breakfast with secure bike storage and a drying room for gear. Owners are experienced cyclists who can provide route tips.

Notable Sites

Yale University - One of the most prestigious and gorgeous college campuses

Logistics

🗓️ Best Time to Visit:
April to October, with May and September offering the most pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
🚂 Getting There: Both starting and ending points are easily accessible with public transportation
🏕️ Accommodation: Connecticut has ample accomodations along the route.

Important Warnings

⚠️ Some coastal sections are exposed to wind. Check weather forecast and plan accordingly.

Route Details

Distance

110 Km

Duration

1-2 days

Elevation

558

Countries

United States

Start/End Points

Westfield, MA -> New Haven, CT

Bike Lane Types

Bike Path
100%
Separated Bike Lane
0%
Shared Lane
0%

Tags

External Resources