Despite its size, Connecticut has regional variations in its landscape and culture, perfect for outdoor recreation and activities. Along the 253 miles of Connecticut shoreline, there are about 150,000 boats on and around Long Island Sound, making boating a popular pastime that also extends to its rivers -
... more the Connecticut, Thames, Housatonic and Quinnipiac - and lakes such as Candlewood. Over 50 private campgrounds plus State Park campgrounds make the great outdoors a welcoming place. Camp and hike through an extensive network of trails, including a section of the Appalachian Trail in the northwest corner of the state. Back in 1878, Alexander Pope created a national craze when he started manufacturing bicycles in his Hartford factory. Connecticut's rural countryside continues to make bicycling a popular way to explore the woodlands, country villages, farms and coastline. Wintertime brings skiing and snowboarding to 5 downhill ski areas that have gentle slopes appealing to beginners and families. Cross-country skiing can be enjoyed at Cedar Brook, Pine Mountain, Winding Trails and state parks and forests. Five state parks permit snowmobiling.
