Getting Around Litchfield Hills. Public Transport, Taxis, Car Rental

Public Transportation

Most towns within the Litchfield Hills do not have a municipal bus system. There is no metro or tram service. Relying on public transport for sightseeing or moving between villages is not a practical option.

Route maps, ticketing systems, fare options, hours of operation, and frequency are not applicable for general tourism within the region. Local bus services, where they exist (e.g., Torrington, New Milford), operate on restricted schedules and with infrequent service, mainly serving residents for local errands.

Limitations

No widespread municipal bus systems.
Absence of metro or tram services.
Not practical for inter-town travel or tourist access to attractions.
Limited accessibility information for tourist use.

Personal Vehicle

Most efficient way to navigate the region.

Rental Car

The most practical choice for getting around.

Tip

Driving your own car or a rental car is the most efficient way to navigate Litchfield Hills.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxi Availability

Taxis are not common in most Litchfield Hills towns.
Cannot be hailed on the street; usually need to book in advance by phone.
Fares are metered and can be high for inter-town travel.

Ride-Sharing Services

Uber and Lyft operate in Connecticut, but availability is sparse in Litchfield Hills.
Expect potentially long wait times, especially outside peak times or larger towns.
Surge pricing may apply during busy periods or in areas with few drivers.

Safety Considerations

Use Legitimate Services

Only use officially licensed taxis or recognized ride-sharing apps.

Confirm Details

Verify vehicle and driver details match the app/dispatcher before entering.

Share Trip Info

Share trip details with a friend or family member for added safety.

Payment Clarity

Confirm payment method with driver before starting the trip.

Rental Options

Renting a car is the most practical choice for getting around the Litchfield Hills. Motorcycle and scooter rentals are very limited or non-existent here.

Car Rental Procedures & Requirements

Book your car in advance, especially for peak seasons.
Pick up at major airports (BDL, HPN, NYC airports) or larger CT cities.
Valid driver's license (U.S. State or IDP with foreign license).
Major credit card in renter's name needed for deposit.

Major Car Rental Companies & Age

Companies: Hertz, Enterprise, Avis, Budget, National, Alamo, Thrifty.
Minimum rental age typically 21, often with surcharges for drivers under 25.
Some companies require drivers to be 25 or older.
A DiscoverCars.com booking helps simplify the process.

Bicycle Rentals & Driving Laws

No widespread bicycle sharing programs.
Some local bike shops in Kent, Salisbury, Litchfield offer rentals.
Standard U.S. Driving laws apply in Connecticut (drive on right).

Seatbelts are needed for all occupants.
Using a handheld cell phone while driving is prohibited; hands-free device needed.
Ample and free parking generally available; some state parks have small fees.

Road Conditions & Specialized Options

Road Landscape

Many roads are winding and hilly, some rural roads may be unpaved or narrow.

Winter Driving

Roads can be snow-covered or icy, requiring careful driving.

Specialized Transport

Tuk-tuks or jeepneys are not applicable in this region.

Walking & Cycling

Walking and cycling offer pleasant ways to experience the Litchfield Hills, especially within towns and on specific trails.

Pedestrian & Walking Tours

Towns like Litchfield, Kent, Washington Depot, Salisbury have charming village greens and sidewalks.
Excellent for leisurely walks to appreciate historic architecture and local shops.
Self-guided historical walking tours are available (brochures at historical societies/visitor centers).
Guided tours are less common and typically need pre-arrangement.

Bicycle Infrastructure & Safety

Dedicated bike lanes on roads are limited.
Caution is advised on scenic rural roads due to winding routes, hills, and lack of shoulders.
Dedicated multi-use trails exist: Larkin State Park Trail and parts of Farmington River Trail.
Avoid busy state highways without shoulders; some remote roads may be challenging for road bikes.

Cycling Benefits & Tips

Unique Perspective

Experience village charm up close.

Dedicated Trails

Utilize paved multi-use trails for safer, enjoyable rides.

Larkin State Park Trail is a great option.

Route Planning

Plan routes to prioritize quieter country roads for a more pleasant cycling experience.

Enhance safety and enjoyment.

Specialized Transportation Not Applicable

No Unique Local Systems

Specialized transportation options are not generally applicable.
Beyond standard car rental and personal vehicle use.
No major tour bus networks.

No Foreign Transport Modes

No unique local transport systems like those found in larger cities or other countries.
Tuk-tuks or jeepneys are not present in this region.
Personal vehicles and rental cars remain the main modes.

Important Cycling Safety

Caution advised due to winding roads and hills.
Many routes lack shoulders, requiring careful attention.
Speed limits are enforced for all vehicles.
Helmets are needed for cyclists under 16 by Connecticut law.

Adhere to all traffic laws and signs.
Handheld cell phone use while driving is prohibited.
Check road conditions, especially during winter, for snow or ice.
Carry a physical map for rural areas with spotty cell service.

Final Transportation Tips

While a personal vehicle or rental car is the most practical way to explore the Litchfield Hills, consider renting bikes locally for a day or half-day to truly experience the charm of a specific village or a dedicated trail.

This provides a different perspective than driving, allowing you to immerse yourself more fully in the local environment and quiet beauty of the region.

Getting Around Litchfield Hills