Airline State Park Trail - North

Rail-Trail

State: CT
Length: 27 miles
Surface: Ballast, Dirt

The Air Line State Park Trail – North is largely frequented by equestrians, hikers, cross-country skiers and mountain bikers. Start at the Goodwin State Forest Conservation Center off Route 6 in Hampton for the best option. From here to Route 44 in Pomfret, the Air Line Trail is quite scenic. The trail stretches farther north and east all the way to the borders of Rhode Island and Massachusetts.
The trail is in two segments: one is from Willimantic north to Kennedy Drive in Putnam; the other picks up again north of Putnam at Thompson Road near the cemetery and I-395.
At its southern terminus in Willimantic, you can pick up the Air Line State Park Trail – South by taking South Street over the river and heading west (right) on Pleasant Street. The road changes to Kingsley and soon crosses the southern section of the Air Line State Park Trail. At the northern end in Goodwin State Forest, you can continue on the trail into Massachusetts, where the trail becomes the Southern New England Trunk Line Trail.

Airline State Park Trail - South

Rail-Trail

State: CT
Length: 22.40 miles
Surface: Asphalt, Crushed Stone

Air Line State Park Trail showcases the engineering behind the Air Line Railroad, laid down through this hilly region in 1873 as a direct route between Boston and New York. As its name implies, the tracks ran flat and straight, like 'a line in the air.'" The Air Line employed the finest trains of the day, featuring the Pullman Palace Car, marketed as the White Train for its luxurious white-and-gold decor.
Frequent rider Rudyard Kipling once wrote of the line:
Without a jar, or roll, or antic Without a stop to Willimantic & Rain nor snow ne'er stops its flight It makes New York at nine each night
The south section of the trail stretches from East Hampton to Willimantic, linking midway with a spur south to Colchester. From Willimantic, the trail continues north and east, as the Air Line State Park Trail – North, all the way to Rhode Island.
Roundtrip cyclists should start in East Hampton. If you forgot to fill your water bottle at home, you can do so in the first 0.5 mile from one of the small waterfalls, created when railroad crews blasted Bishops Cut through solid rock. For the next 3 miles, you'll cross the Rapallo and Lyman viaducts. Built in the 1870s, each spans more than 1,000 feet, the latter soaring more than 150 feet above the valley floor. In 1913 crews reinforced the viaducts with rock and sediment to support heavier trains. Visible from trailside benches, the top corner of each span pokes out through the fill.
Onward the trail soars over boisterous, rushing streams, smaller brooks and the broad Blackledge River before crossing a causeway through Raymond Brook Marsh. Watch for signs of beaver.
An eighth of a mile from a trailhead and large parking area on State Route 85, the 3.4-mile Colchester Spur Rail-Trail joins the main Air Line State Park Trail – South. Though a tad rougher, the spur offers an enjoyable ride through hemlock woods. You'll soon cross SR 85 and eventually emerge at an undeveloped trailhead anchored by th

Alewife Linear Park/Somerville Community Path

Rail-Trail

State: MA
Length: 2 miles
Surface: Asphalt

Alewife Linear Park is a beautiful paved trail stretching 2 miles east from the Alewife T-station in Cambridge to Cedar Street in Somerville. The park came about after the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (the "T") put its Red Line underground; between the Alewife and Davis T-stations, the subway runs directly beneath the trail. The trail's urban/suburban locale and its direct link to the 11-mile Minuteman Bikeway makes this a busy commuter and recreation corridor. Note that while dogs are not permitted on the trail, local residents often break this rule. Watch where you step.
The west end of the trail starts at Russell Field, an attractive, well-designed park with a football gridiron and field house, baseball diamonds, water fountains, bike racks and a loop cycling path. A few blocks beyond the park, you'll need to cross busy Massachusetts Avenue.
Near the trail midpoint, a tree-lined brick path leads directly to the Davis T-station. From here east the trail is referred to as the Somerville Community Path. Several wind-activated structures on brick-and-steel pillars depict scenes of historical Somerville. Cyclists may use any of the numerous bike racks and, outside of rush hour, you may choose to take your bike on the train for a further exploration of metro Boston.
Or continue past the station, through the hip Davis Square neighborhood and back onto the Alewife Linear Park/Somerville Community Path for almost another mile to Cedar Street. Along the way you'll pass a couple of parks, including one with a playground. East of Cedar Street the trail is slated to continue another 0.25 mile. Additional plans call for the trail to be extended to Cambridge and Boston as part of the Green Line extension (light rail) of the MBTA.

Arkwright Riverwalk

Rail-Trail

State: RI
Length: 1 miles
Surface: Dirt, Woodchips

The Arkwright Riverwalk, founded on a former rail bed purchased from Penn Central Railroad, is located in Coventry, a rural central Rhode Island town that was built around textile mills. The one-mile trail includes a wooden boardwalk, but is primarily surfaced with dirt and follows the north branch the Pawtuxet River. Future plans include a connection to the Phenix-Harris Riverwalk, just over a mile away.

Assabet River Rail-Trail

Rail-Trail

State: MA
Length: 5.60 miles
Surface: Asphalt

The Assabet River Rail-Trail provides a forested escape from the surrounding urban bustle. Traveling 5.6 miles (with plans to expand it) the trail connects the towns of Hudson and Marlborough and parallels the scenic Assabet River. As of autumn 2012, the trail is in three disconnected sections between Marlborough and Maynard. The trail crosses the Assabet River five times, the last crossing on a refurbished, historical wrought-iron railroad bridge. The 12-foot-wide corridor makes an excellent cycling route—just take care maneuvering between bollards located at the intersection of trails and roads; they are closer together than most.
The trail begins along State Route 62 in Hudson, marked by a restored 1921 blue caboose across the road from an ice-cream store. Look for the trailhead parking area. Passing through downtown Hudson, the trail weaves through the awkward three-way intersection of Villa do Porto Boulevard, Broad Street and the South Street extension.
Returning to the rail corridor, you'll cross a wooden bridge, followed by more trailhead parking on your right. The forested trail here provides a welcome buffer from the surrounding residential and urban landscape. At mile 2.4, you'll cross the Marlborough town line through a tunnel. The onward trail skirts a main road north, passing the Boston Scientific medical research and corporate center before reaching Fitchburg Street. Be careful at this intersection, since there are no bike lanes and the traffic light cycle doesn't allow much time to cross.
Beyond the crossing, there are no bike lanes. Look for the trail sign after the intersection, and you will find yourself leaving the traffic behind. As the path diverges from the road, the adjacent landscaped swathes on both sides of the route shield you from the busy urban environment. Side trails connect to the Assabet along this stretch.
Eventually, the trail will extend uninterrupted to South Acton along the Marlborough Branch Railroad corri

Bedford Narrow Gauge Rail-Trail

Rail-Trail

State: MA
Length: 3.10 miles
Surface: Asphalt, Crushed Stone, Dirt

The Bedford Narrow-Gauge Rail-Trail shares its trailhead at Depot Park in Bedford with the Minuteman Bikeway and Reformatory Branch Trail. Serving mainly as a commuter route, this trail extends just over 3 miles north, past woods and residences to the Billerica town line. It also makes a nice diversion for Minuteman Bikeway users looking to picnic at Fawn Lake.

The trail follows the bed of the 1877 Billerica & Bedford Railroad, the nation's first 2-foot narrow gauge railway. In 1885, the Boston & Lowell Railroad built a standard gauge extension of the line. The Lexington Branch served five passenger stations: Bedford Springs, South Billerica, Turnpike, Billerica and Bennett Hall. The railroad abandoned the extension in 1962, and the town of Bedford purchased it to create the trail. Cyclists should use either hybrid or mountain bikes, as portions of the route are surfaced with stone dust.

Metal gates signal the start of the asphalt-paved trail at Loomis Street. Along the first mile to Fawn Lake, you'll pass Page Field and a Revolutionary War monument on the right, followed by a retail district. Use caution at the unmarked Great Road intersection. Beyond this crossing, the trail surface changes to stone dust.

A passenger station once stood at the intersection on Springs Road. Look for the electromagnetic "wigwag" (a railroad grade crossing signal) that once warned approaching motorists. Beyond the Pine Hill Road intersection, to the left of the trail, York Conservation Area offers a loop trail most suitable for hikers. A half mile farther is Fawn Lake on the right, which provides a welcome stop for a picnic along Sweetwater Avenue, or a stroll around the pond.

Back on the Bedford Narrow-Gauge Rail-Trail, and approaching its end, the trail becomes increasingly sandy. Metal gates signal the Billerica to

Blackstone River Bikeway (MA)

Rail-Trail

State: MA
Length: 2.50 miles
Surface: Asphalt

This 2.5-mile trail represents the first open segment of the Massachusetts portion of the Blackstone River Bikeway that will eventually link Worcester, Mass. with Providence, RI.

Blackstone River Bikeway (RI)

Rail-Trail

State: RI
Length: 11.80 miles
Surface: Asphalt

The Blackstone River Bikeway represents a big undertaking in this tiny state: The 11.6-mile trail is the largest open segment on a nearly 50-mile former rail corridor that will eventually connect Providence to Worcester, Massachusetts.
A restored drive-in movie theater sign featuring the Blackstone River Bikeway greets you at the trail's current south end on John Street in Lonsdale. From the start, you'll be treated to many picturesque scenes of the wide, churning Blackstone River and the placid, historic canal. After a mile, you'll cross over the Pratt Dam on the a six-span bridge, which sits atop the original railroad piers and abutment.
Beyond the dam, the bikeway turns right and continues north (the path leading straight ends at a parking lot). Northbound toward the village of Ashton, the trail alternately follows and parallels the historic canal towpath. Keep an eye out for a large brick textile mill; the canal was built to transport cotton goods from the mill to Worcester and Providence in the 1800s.
Ashton marks the approximate trail midpoint. You could begin or end your journey here by parking on Route 116 or at the visitor center along Interstate 295, which provides restrooms and information. Each parking lot offers a connecting spur on a slight incline to the trail.
History buffs may choose to visit the historic Kelley House Museum, former home of Wilbur Kelley, a ship captain and mill owner. Nestled between the river and canal, the museum relates the transportation and industrial history of each waterway.
Continuing north, the trail parallels the active Providence & Worcester Railroad all the way to the end, even sharing a bridge across the river in Albion. The building materials for this stretch of the rail-trail were shipped by and unloaded right off the train.

Blackstone River and Canal Heritage State Park Trail

Rail-Trail

State: MA
Length: 3.50 miles
Surface: Dirt

The Blackstone River and Canal Heritage State Park recalls the role of canals in transporting raw materials and manufactured goods between emerging industrial centers. Walk along restored sections of the Blackstone River Canal and Towpath from the River Bend Farm Visitors Center. Straddling the town line between Uxbridge and Northbridge is a 1000 acre natural area offering walking and hiking paths, canoe access, picnic areas and a broad expanse of the Blackstone River known as Rice City Pond, which is a great area for watching wildlife.

Bridle Trail

Rail-Trail

State: MA
Length: 3 miles
Surface: Dirt, Sand

The abandoned rail bed is predominantly owned by the Town of Marshfield. Sections of the abandoned rail bed are open to the public and actively used for recreational uses such as walking, running, horse back riding, mountain biking and cross country skiing.

Bruce Freeman Rail Trail - Lowell, Chelmsford, Westford

Rail-Trail

State: MA
Length: 6.80 miles
Surface: Asphalt

Begins in Chelmsford at the Lowell/Chelmsford line, near Cross Point, passes through Chelmsford Center, and ends at Rt. 225 in Westford. This part of the trail covers a stretch of 6.8 miles.

Cape Cod Canal Bikeway

State: MA
Length: 13.50 miles
Surface:

The Cape Cod Canal Bikeway is an access road for non-motorized use, except for Army Corps of Engineer vehicles as needed. The bikeway extends 8 miles along the canal between the Bourne and Sagamore bridges.

PROJECT: Cape Cod Rail-Trail Extension

Rail-Trail

State: MA
Length: 25 miles
Surface:

After years of planning, construction work could begin by 2012 on the Yarmouth extension of the Cap Cod Rail Trail, the paved bikeway that runs 28 miles from Wellfleet to Dennis. Preliminary plans are in place, and engineers are conducting a full land survey to design the specific route of the path, likely to run along the abandoned railroad tracks near Whites Path to the existing pathway near Old Town House Road. The $5 to $7 million project, which would end at Willow Street near the abandoned portion of Higgins Crowell Road, could be up and running by 2013. In early 2011, The Cape Cod Commission gave Barnstable a grant that will start the development of plans to extend the Cape Cod Rail Trail through Barnstable. The planned extension runs through Massachusetts Fish and Game land on the south side of Route 6 to Sandwich and down Yarmouth Road to connect to the Hyannis Transportation Center. The grant money will go toward supporting development and design

PROJECT: Cochituate Rail Trail (Natick to Framingham)

Rail-Trail

State: MA
Length: 4 miles
Surface:

The Cochituate Rail Trail (CRT) is a proposed multi-use trail which will extend from the Village of Saxonville in Framingham to Natick Center, a distance of 4 miles. The Framingham section of trail has gone through its design phase. Construction will begin in November, 2010. The Natick section is in the planning stage. The CRT will also be heavily used for transportation. Due to its close proximity to office buildings, shopping centers, schools, and residential areas, it will provide residents with an attractive alternative to driving. A planned connection to the commuter rail station in Natick center will open the door to even greater transportation use. Much of the trail will be quite scenic; passing near streams and wetlands in Framingham and along the shores of Lake Cochituate in Natick, the trail will be a beautiful linear park providing valuable open space through heavily developed sections of both towns. The trail will use the Saxonville Branch rail line which travels southeast from Saxonville and joins the active Boston to Worcester commuter line in Natick Center. Built in 1846, the historic Saxonville Branch was used to construct the dam for Lake Cochituate, which supplied water to the City of Boston from 1848 to 1951. The line also serviced the textile mills of Saxonville until 1973.

Columbia Greenway Rail Trail

Rail-Trail

State: MA
Length: 3.20 miles
Surface: Asphalt

The Columbia Greenway is the name chosen for Westfield's Rail Trail. The trail when completed will extend from the Westfield River to the Southwick town line. The Columbia Greenway will traverse Downtown Westfield on an elevated line with bridge crossings of all streets in the Downtown. The trail will tie into the Southwick trail that extends to the Connecticut state Line and becomes the Farmington Valley Greenway extending to New Haven, Connecticut. At a future date the Columbia Greenway will extend northward from the Westfield River to eventually tie into the Northampton Bike Trail. The Columbia Greenway project utilizes the rail line bisecting the downtown to convey a bicycle/pedestrian corridor connecting Depot Square, north of the Westfield River, the multiple attractions of the downtown and residential areas to the south

East Bay Bike Path

Rail-Trail

State: RI
Length: 14 miles
Surface: Asphalt

Rhode Island's best-known rail-trail, the East Bay Bicycle Path, hugs the shores of Narragansett Bay, from Bristol in the south and north to India Point Park in Providence. The 14-mile paved path accommodates a wide variety of users. Markers on the pavement every half mile help you keep track of your progress.
The trail takes you through an alternating landscape of stunning natural areas, as well as more urban enclaves. Spur trails lead to several parks and conservation areas, including Colt State Park in Bristol, Burr's Hill Park in Warren and Veterans Memorial Park and Haines Memorial State Park in Barrington.
In Bristol, watch for an intersection on the path marked by bike racks. Here, a path leads to the Rhode Island Audubon Society's Environmental Education Center. The center features a state-of-the art, fully accessible natural history museum and aquarium, as well as all-season guided tours, nature walks and special family programs.
Approaching Providence, you'll cross the Interstate 195 bridge to India Point Park, the path's northern terminus. The park, built on the rail bed and scrap metal yards in 1974, was originally a port for trading ships bound for the East and West Indies in the 1700s. After 1850, with the arrival of the rail line, it became a debarkation point for new immigrants to America. Train service on this route operated from 1855 until 1974. In 1900, the New Haven Railroad, which owned the line at the time, converted it to electric car service using overhead lines.
A 0.5-mile detour from the trail in Riverside leads to Crescent Park and the Looff Carousel. To get to the park, head east on Crescent View Avenue where it intersects the trail. A sculptural masterpiece of wood, the carousel features 62 exquisitely carved figures and four chariots. Dating to 1895, it's listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Hop River State Park Trail

Rail-Trail

State: CT
Length: 15.60 miles
Surface: Crushed Stone, Dirt, Gravel

The Hop River State Park Trail is one of Connecticut's top rail-trails. Narrow cuts and a lush tree canopy make for enjoyable visits year-round. Most of the 15.6-mile route from the Manchester–Vernon town line to Hop River Road follows a crushed stone surface. From the town line east to Washington Street, the trail is mostly forested. At Church and Phoenix streets the trail branches north and is sometimes called the Rockville Spur or the Vernon Rails-to-Trails.
From the intersection continuing east on the Hop River Trail, the trail climbs gradually for a few miles past impressive rock outcrops. Beyond the Bolton Notch parking lot, the trail passes beneath State Route 44 and US 6, threads a narrow rock cut then descends several miles through thick woods. Past Steeles Crossing Road, US 6 comes into view on your left, but not so close as to break the mood. Keep watch for small waterfalls like the one near Burnap Brook Road.
A new covered bridge over State Route 316 is fabulous—and was worth the 10-year wait!
Eventually you pass beneath US 6 through a 100-foot lighted tunnel. Another mile brings you to Parker Bridge Road. Another mile brings you to Parker Bridge Road. The trail continues east toward Willimantic with one section of stone dust and the rest manageable but slightly bumpy dirt. After going under the US 6 bypass, the trail continues along the Hop and Willimantic rivers to end at a spur off Flanders Road.

Mass Central Rail Trail

Rail-Trail

State: MA
Length: 29 miles
Surface: Crushed Stone, Dirt, Grass

A 104 mile rail line was shattered by hurricane in 1938. Now, more than 60 years later, dedicated volunteers in 33 communities are working to reconnect it. Instead of trains there will be cross-country skiers, bicyclists, hikers, and joggers.

It won't be easy. While much of the old railway is passable to a dedicated hiker, the ownership is less clear. The railway has faded so far from memory that many maps don't even show the former route. A number of the bridges were torn down for scrap. Some of the land was sold, and neighboring landowners in other areas took advantage of the situation to build swimming pools, backyards, parking lots and other structures.

Despite the obstacles, though, the Mass Central Rail Trail continues to be developed and several sections, totaling 29 miles, are now complete.

Mattapoisett Rail Trail

Rail-Trail

State: MA
Length: 1.10 miles
Surface: Asphalt

The Mattapoisett Rail Trail is a work in progress. As of autumn 2011, it runs for just more than 1 mile between Reservation Road at Mattapoisett Harbor and the Phoenix Rail-Trail in Fairhaven, joining the latter at Shaw Road. The trail occupies the former right-of-way of the Old Colony Rail Road, which dates to 1851 and once called the "Old Colony Mile."

Methuen Rail Trail

Rail-Trail

State: MA
Length: 2.50 miles
Surface:

The Methuen Rail Trail will be a 2.5 mile multi-use trail along an abandoned railroad corridor. The trail will run from the train depot, through the Nevins Bird Sanctuary, parallel to Route 28 to the New Hampshire state line. The corridor has been described as a cross between a meadow and a country lane. When completed, the trail will make Methuen an integral part of the Merrimack Valley's biking and walking network.

Minuteman Bikeway

Rail-Trail

State: MA
Length: 11 miles
Surface: Asphalt

You won't get lonely on the Minuteman Bikeway. The 11-mile rail-trail through suburban Boston is one of New England's most popular trails. Warm summer weekends in particular bring folks of all ages and abilities elbow to elbow along the asphalt bikeway.
The corridor boasts more than a vibrant present. It has a storied past that includes, as the name implies, a role in Revolutionary War times. The trail travels through the area where the Revolutionary War began in April 1775. In 1846, the Lexington & West Cambridge Railroad built and started service on the line. The blizzard of 1977 halted passenger service for good, and the demise of freight service followed in 1981.
In 1991, the line was railbanked by federal law, making it possible to transform the line into a rail-trail, while preserving future railroad opportunities. Just a year later, Rails-to-Trails Conservancy and the communities along the route celebrated the opening of the Minuteman Bikeway as the country's 500th rail-trail. By 1998, the Minuteman Bikeway was extended from downtown Arlington to the Alewife T-station in Cambridge. In 2000, the White House recognized the trail as a Millennium Trail (a program of the Clinton administration that noted outstanding trails in honor of the millennium), solidifying its reputation as a premier recreation and transportation route.
Although most users know the entire route as simply the Minuteman Bikeway, there are actually several connecting trails that can lead you from Somerville to downtown Concord. From Boston you have the option to hop the Red Line subway to Alewife T-station, where the Minuteman begins. To add 1.5 miles to your route, jump off at Davis Square Station and take the Alewife Linear Park to the Minuteman.
Traveling north into Arlington, you'll begin to understand why this trail is popular with pleasure-seekers and commuters alike. Heading no

Moosup Valley State Park Trail

Rail-Trail

State: CT
Length: 5.80 miles
Surface: Ballast, Crushed Stone, Dirt, Grass, Gravel, Sand

This 5.8-mile trail is part of the planned East Coast Greenway, an off-road path that will eventually run from Calais, Maine, to Key West, Florida. The Moosup Valley State Park Trail will connect with Rhode Island's Washington Secondary Bike Path that stretches from the state border east toward Providence.
The Moosup Valley State Park Trail follows the bed of the former New Haven Railroad, which operated this line from 1898 until 1968, when it began pulling up tracks. Wide and flat, the trail is suitable for riders of all levels though it is not pristinely manicured. Its surface is largely hard-packed dirt, but this varies, and the trail is not recommended for road bikes. A hybrid or a mountain bike would be ideal.
Head out on this bucolic, scenic trail and you'll feel as though you have left civilization far behind. Much of the trail follows the Moosup River on its course past rural Moosup and Sterling on into Rhode Island. The trail begins with a large, re-decked trestle bridge. After 1 mile, a second bridge, as well as a dam and falls, come into view, and the trail becomes increasingly rural and wooded. You'll spot a quarry to the right, around the 2-mile point.
There's no clear line of demarcation between the end of the Moosup Valley State Park Trail and the start of the Coventry Greenway, the path's name once it enters Rhode Island. Determine your own best turnaround point.
If you plan to use the trail in autumn or early winter, beware that hunting is popular here. In season, you're advised to wear blaze orange. (Note: Hunting is not permitted on Sundays.)

Neponset River Bike Trail

Rail-Trail

State: MA
Length: 2.50 miles
Surface: Asphalt

Over its short distance, this trail goes from urban wilderness through a mill village and a salt marsh to beaches on Boston Harbor. In the future it will connect the several-thousand-acre Blue Hills Reservation to the John F. Kennedy Library, the University of Massachusetts at Boston, and eventually, downtown Boston.

Northern Strand Community Trail

Rail-Trail

State: MA
Length: 5.60 miles
Surface: Crushed Stone

As of early 2013, nearly 6 miles of the Northern Strand Community Trail in Massachusetts are open to the public, although this includes two disjointed segments.
The longer segment, which was opened in 2012, runs west from the intersection of Beach Street and Lynn Street in the Boston suburb of Malden to Air Force Road on the border of the industrial and residential sections of the city of Everett. The route takes you through the heart of Malden and is convenient to many of the city's residents. The Northern Strand Community Trail also links several schools—including Linden School, Salemwood Elementary School, Malden High School, and Madeline English School—with these residential neighborhoods, providing a safe route to school for many children. Trail users should be advised, however, that they will need to cross State Route 60 at Ferry Street near Malden High School at the trail's midpoint, as the trail does not feature a bridge or tunnel over the busy road.
The second segment of the Northern Strand Community Trail is located entirely in the town of Saugus, a little more than a mile northeast of the Malden section's eastern endpoint at Beach Street. The Saugus portion begins at the intersection of Laurel Street and Mt. Vernon Street and takes trail users through residential areas of the town. Like the section of the trail from Malden to Everett, the Saugus segment connects many houses with local schools (Belmonte Saugus Middle School and Douglas Waybright Elementary School), as well as Saugus' popular Anna Parker Playground. Near the eastern end of the trail at Lincoln Avenue/Boston Street, a pedestrian bridge was recently built where the trail crosses the Saugus River.
The ultimate goal of the Northern Strand Community Trail is to connect the northern Boston suburbs with Nahant Bay, an inlet of the Atlantic Ocean, in the city of Lynn. In fact, the main organization responsible for the development of the trail is named Bike to the Sea, and this

Phenix-Harris Riverwalk

Rail-Trail

State: RI
Length: 0.30 miles
Surface: Dirt

The Phenix-Harris Riverwalk, a short trail built on a former rail bed purchased from Penn Central Railroad, connects West Warwick and Coventry, two towns on the outskirts of Providence. The dirt pathway offers a peaceful and wooded oasis between the Pawtuxet River and residential neighborhoods. Future plans include a connection to the Arkwright Riverwalk, just over a mile away.

Phoenix Rail-Trail

Rail-Trail

State: MA
Length: 3.50 miles
Surface: Asphalt

Opened in 1999, the Phoenix Rail-Trail packs a surprising diversity in its 3.1 miles, passing through woodlands, salt marshes, farms and commercial and residential areas. Tree-lined for much of its length, the path provides plenty of shade for a pleasant ride on hot, sunny days. Schoolchildren named the trail after nearby Fort Phoenix, within sight of which the first naval battle of the American Revolution was fought in 1775.
The trail begins in historic downtown Fairhaven across from the old ferry terminal, where steamship passengers embarked for New Bedford before the bridge was built. The trail follows the path of the Fairhaven Branch Railroad, built in 1854, which stemmed off of the Cape Cod Branch Railroad. The Phoenix Rail-Trail is the first section of a larger regional trail network that will eventually stretch from the Cape Cod Canal to Rhode Island.
The first half of the trail leads through Fairhaven's pleasant residential neighborhoods. Soon after setting out, you'll pass areas under redevelopment, including the site of the old Atlas Tack Company. The rail-trail's only major road crossing is the intersection with Route 240. From this point, the trail takes you through less populated areas, past farms with cornfields, and an outstanding vista of a salt marsh—a great place to spot birds and other wildlife. There, at approximately the halfway point on the trail, you'll note a short marked spur trail called the Little Bay Loop Trail that takes off to the right. If you want to extend your ride, you can take the spur 1 mile to Buzzards Bay. At the junction of the spur trail, a kiosk displays a map of the trail and local area.
Beyond Shaw Road the trail continues to Mattapoisett Harbor as the Mattapoisett Rail-Trail.

PROJECT: Phoenix Rail-Trail extension

Rail-Trail

State: MA
Length: 12 miles
Surface:

From Narragansett Bay Wheelmen Bicycle Club website:

Beginning in Fairhaven, which opened its initial 3.5-mile segment in November 1998, this rail-to-trail and on-road mix will provide bicycle (and equestrian) links between the three town centers and the Fairhaven waterfront area. This trail will also provide a potential link for proposed local projects in Wareham and New Bedford. Fairhaven is in the design phase of a proposed extension of this main trail via a spur from Sconticut Neck to the Little Bay Conservation Area and back to the main trail.

Pine Tree Brook / Popes Pond Path

State: MA
Length: 2 miles
Surface: Asphalt, Dirt, Woodchips

The Pine Tree Brook Trail travels alongside the brook in Milton, Massachusetts. The path travels through woods and residential neighborhoods for a distance of about 1.8 miles, and it connects to the Milton High School, and almost to the Pierce Middle School.

Putnam River Trail

Rail-Trail

State: CT
Length: 2 miles
Surface: Asphalt

The Putnam River Trail extends between Arch Street in the Putnam District and Providence Street to the south. The trail follows the east bank of the Quinebaug River between the river and Kennedy Drive, with views of Cargill Falls. The trail passes through the town of Putnam, known for its antique shopping, and through local parks.
Along the way interpretive displays tell about Putnam's railroad history, textile mills, the 1955 flood and the area's founding citizens. One 200-foot pedestrian bridge is built on the stone foundation of an old railroad trestle. The trail offers scenic views of the river along its route.

Quarries Footpath

Rail-Trail

State: MA
Length: 1 miles
Surface: Dirt

50 Quarries have operated in Quincy, "The Granite City", since 1826. This trail provides a short tour of the railway corridor where the stone was carried from the Quarries.

Quinebaug River Trail

State: CT
Length: 4 miles
Surface: Asphalt

As of January 2012 the Quinebaug River Trail has two segments. The southern segment follows the course of the Quinebaug River in Danielson, beginning at the intersection of Palmer Street and Prospect Avenue, crossing a bridge over Fivemile Pond then heading south along the east bank of the river to Gloria Avenue. The northern segment runs between the Holiday Inn just west of the Attawaugan Crossing/Ballouville Exit (# 94) off I-395 and Park Road in Putnam, ending just after it crosses under the railroad tracks. The segment parallels Tracy and Park roads. You can continue north into Putnam and connect with the Putnam River Trail.
Eventually the Quinebaug River Trail will become part of the East Coast Greenway, stretching from Florida to Maine.

Reformatory Branch Trail

Rail-Trail

State: MA
Length: 4.50 miles
Surface: Dirt

The rugged and beautiful Reformatory Branch Trail meanders more than 4 miles through three natural areas: Elm Brook Conservation Area, Mary Putnam Webber Wildlife Preserve, and Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge. It is the perfect route for escaping the city to rediscover nature.

Westbound from the Bedford Depot Park trailhead on Railroad Avenue, you'll first reach Elm Brook Conservation Area. Its 19.3 acres of protected wetlands and floodplain offer additional biking and hiking trails through an enchanting red maple forest.

Almost immediately after leaving the conservation area and crossing Hartwell Road, you'll see signs for Mary Putnam Webber Wildlife Preserve. This 20-acre parcel is also mostly wetland and acts as a wildlife corridor for the many species that live within the surrounding wetland and woodland habitats. Trails on the left leading into this area eventually lead to the well-marked Massport trail around Hanscom Airfield, opened to the public (for hiking only) in 2011. As of July 2012 there are still no trail markings through the Mary Putnam Webber pointing to the Massport trails.

At Concord Turnpike, the trail crosses a gravel parking lot and continues across the street behind the guardrail; it's a very narrow path here, but once you descend the small hill, it opens up again to a proper rail-trail. Regrettably, the wooden bridge that carried traffic over the railroad was removed in 1967. Be careful when crossing the busy turnpike, as drivers are not given warning of the trail crossing.

You will quickly arrive at Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge. This massive freshwater wetland covers more than 3,600 acres and stretches 12 miles along the Concord and Sudbury rivers. Birders take note: The National Fish and Wildlife Service, which manages the site, offers an annotated list of the area's 220 avian species. The refuge also shelters white-tailed deer, muskrats, red fox, raccoons, cottontail rabbits, weasels, am

Rockland Rail-Trail

Rail-Trail

State: MA
Length: 2.50 miles
Surface: Asphalt

The Rockland Rail Trail runs for a little more than 2 miles through the village of Rockland. It follows an old corridor of what was once known as the Hanover Branch Line. The line was built in the 1860s by E. Y. Perry, a Hanover businessman who produced tacks. The railroad originally ran between Hanover Four Corners and North Abington before becoming part of the Old Colony Line in 1887. In the 1940s and '50s self-propelled cars for commuters ran on the tracks.
Trail managers hope to extend the rail-trail east through Abington and west through Hanover one day.

PROJECT: Saugus Rail Trail

Rail-Trail

State: MA
Length: 2.80 miles
Surface:

The 2.8 mile Saugus Rail Trail will connect residential neighborhoods with the downtown business district, Saugus Belmonte Middle School with it's athletic fields, tennis courts and areas of open space. From Lincoln avenue the trail will proceed west crossing Central Street before swinging in a more southerly direction toward Lincoln Avenue.

Shining Sea Bikeway

Rail-Trail

State: MA
Length: 10.70 miles
Surface: Asphalt

Curling nearly 11 miles past woodlands, marshes, salt ponds and seascape, the Shining Sea Bikeway is the only bikeway on Cape Cod to skirt the shore. Also called the Shining Sea Bike Path, the paved trail extends from County Route 151 in Falmouth to the Woods Hole Steamship Authority's site in Woods Hole, a historical seaside fishing village and home to an internationally known scientific community.
Rich in history, the bikeway follows prehistoric Wampanoag Indian trails. Members of the Algonquin Nation, the peaceful Wampanoag were notable seafarers who thrived here on a plentiful diet of shellfish, fish, game, wildfowl, berries, roots and nuts. In 1620 Wampanoag Chief Massasoit greeted Pilgrims, the first substantial wave of European immigrants. By the 1850s, Falmouth had become a destination for summer tourists, and the Penn Central Railroad soon stretched from Monument Village to Woods Hole, tracing the ancient Wampanoag trails.
The railroad stopped service in 1957, and within 20 years, the bikeway was built and dedicated as part of Falmouth's bicentennial celebrations. Today it serves as an inter-modal transportation link, connecting automobile, bus, ferry and bicycle routes. Its name comes from "America the Beautiful," the famous poem by Katherine Lee Bates, a Falmouth native.
From Falmouth head south through a residential and commercial district. Along the shaded path you will soon reach an information kiosk and spur path to the left for the Salt Pond Areas Bird Sanctuary. This 60-acre preserve between the bikeway and ocean offers a network of footpaths from which you can spot many species of shorebirds as well as river otters and muskrats. Soon after the sanctuary, the trail leaves the woods to reveal an expansive ocean view. This is truly the scenic highlight of the bikeway. Between the trail and the ocean lies Trunk River Beach, a barrier strand consisting of pebbles, cobbles and sand. Pause here to breathe in the sea air or watch ospreys and he

Southern New England Trunkline Trail

Rail-Trail

State: MA
Length: 21 miles
Surface: Ballast, Crushed Stone

The Southern New England Trunk Line Trail (aka the "SNETT") was designated as a National Recreation Trail in 1994. It is built upon a segment of the former right-of-way of the New Haven Railroad's Midland Division, which operated between Boston and Putnam, CT.
Today, it runs nearly uninterrupted for 22 miles between Grove Street near the southeastern edge of Franklin State Forest and the Connecticut state line in the Douglas State Forest. Although the trail is open and very scenic, note that much of it is currently unimproved with heavy overgrowth best suited to hiking and mountain biking.
The SNETT is the eastern leg of the larger Titanic Rail Trail (once known as the Grand Trunk Trail), which is planned to stretch more than 60 miles through south-central Massachusetts. Across the border in Connecticut, the trail joins the Airline State Park Trail that travels southwest for 27 miles to the town of Windham on the banks of the Willimantic River.
There is a break in the trail in Blackstone and a shorter break in Millville. There's also a tricky crossing at Worcester-Providence Turnpike/Rt. 146. Use caution when attempting to link the broken trail segments and NEVER USE ACTIVE RAILROAD BRIDGES FOR CROSSINGS. Though most of the trail is unpaved, short sections have been paved and there are plans to pave more.

Southwest Corridor Park (Pierre Lallement Bike Path)

Rail-Trail

State: MA
Length: 3.90 miles
Surface: Asphalt

Southwest Corridor Park is a 4.7-mile linear park through the Boston neighborhoods of South End, Roxbury and Jamaica Plain. A recreation and commuter route popular with walkers, runners, and cyclists, the park is a triumph of its surrounding communities, which rallied in the 1960s to prevent a 12-lane highway from flanking a subway line and instead created this 52-acre green space. The park parallels the Orange Line between the Back Bay and Forest Hills T-stations. Forest Hills connects to the Needham commuter rail line, while Back Bay is a stop on the Framingham/Worcester, Providence/Stoughton and Needham commuter rail lines, as well as the Amtrak line. The trail (just under 4 miles) is called the Pierre Lallement Bike Path.
The northern trailhead is across from the Back Bay T-station on Dartmouth Street, only blocks from Copley Square, the Boston Public Library and commercial Newbury Street. Beginning between Neiman Marcus and Firefly Bistro, the trail winds its way between small residential South End side streets lined with old brownstones. This skillfully designed section includes dog parks, playgrounds, neighborhood vegetable gardens and basketball and tennis courts.
Where the trail crosses West Newton Street, look up at the Prudential Center and John Hancock buildings, highlights of the Boston skyline. Where the trail crosses Massachusetts Avenue, glance right to spot Symphony Hall, home to the Boston Symphony Orchestra.
When you reach Northeastern University's tennis courts, turn left and then right to remain on the path, which parallels Columbus Avenue for a short stretch to Ruggles Station. Scattered along the corridor are more tennis courts, basketball courts, spray pools, street hockey rinks and amphitheaters. The path continues along Columbus Avenue, then cuts behind Jackson Square Station, where murals line the corridor to Center Street.
If you're hungry, consider stopping in Jamaica Plain at City Feed & Supply, an excellent grocery and

Stillwater Scenic Walkway

Rail-Trail

State: RI
Length: 1 miles
Surface: Crushed Stone, Dirt

The Stillwater Scenic Walkway is a short trail that follows an old railroad bed between Capron Road and State Route 104 (Farnum Pike) south of Smithfield. The trail passes through a wooded area along the shore of Stillwater Pond and Capron Pond. The trail provides access to Stillwater Reservoir.
Look for wildlife, particularly birds, along the way. You will also so low dams along the Woonasquatucket River and the remains of the old Stillwater village.

PROJECT: Stoneham (Tri-Community Bikeway)

Rail-Trail

State: MA
Length: 6.60 miles
Surface:

From Massachusetts Bicycle Coalition website:

This trail is still in the development stages and is looking for support to make the plans a reality. To support this campaign, please click here to access a sample letter to send, or email, to the Deputy Secretary of Boston, MA.

The Stoneham section of the Bikeway will involve the conversion of approximately 1.5 miles of abandoned railroad right of way primarily for transportation purposes with a linear park system incorporating, among other associated uses, a continuous paved way for bicycles and pedestrians, an exercise course, a nature trail and scenic landscaping is planned as well. In addition to the improvement of the railroad bed for enhanced transportation purposes, new parking areas and intermittent street crossings will ensure optimal accessibility to the Bikeway. The project is also a component of a multi-regional pedestrian and bicycle transportation system interconnecting with significant regional road networks and local public transportation. The Stoneham portion of the Bikeway will safely connect the Central Elementary, the Middle School, Recreation Park, Pomeworth Field, and numerous business and residential areas all located in the Town. The proposal is over and above a normal transportation project which will further several enhancement categories including the provision of facilities for pedestrian and bicycle use, the preservation of abandoned railway corridors, landscaping and other scenic beautification.

Ten Mile River Greenway

State: RI
Length: 2 miles
Surface: Asphalt

The Ten Mile River Greenway follows the winding course for 2.5 miles along the James Turner Reservoir (Ten Mile River). Though short, the trail is quite scenic and runs between the Kimberly Ann Rock ball fields in East Providence and the north end of Slater Memorial Park in Pawtucket (to Armistice Blvd.). In the future an extension may continue north of Armistice Boulevard another mile to the playing fields along Daggett Avenue in Ten Mile River Park.
In Slater Park you'll find the Loof Carousel, built in 1894.

Titanic Rail Trail

Rail-Trail

State: MA
Length: 4.70 miles
Surface: Crushed Stone, Gravel

The Titanic Rail Trail (once known as the Grand Trunk Trail) is planned to stretch more than 60 miles through south-central Massachusetts and the northeastern corner of Connecticut along the former Southern New England Railroad. Its previous name stems from the Grand Trunk Railroad of Canada, which financed the railroad venture, but the trail was recently renamed to avoid confusion with another trail of the same name in Ontario. In 1912, the president of the railway company, Charles M. Hays, died on the famous ill-fated ship, which inspired the trail's new name.

The east-west route will link 15 towns from Franklin to Palmer and connect the Blackstone Valley to Pioneer Valley. The state-owned eastern end is known as the Southern New England Trunkline Trail and runs for 21 miles. The western end of the trail is currently open in a few disconnected sections:

Brimfield (2.8 miles): This hard-packed gravel pathway winds through a heavily forested area and offers a connection to the Trolley Line Trail, as well as a spur that heads south to Holland.

Southbridge to Sturbridge (1.9 miles): This section winds through wooded land along the Quinebaug River from the Westville Dam to the Ed Calcutt Bridge, linking the two towns. The Westville Lake Recreation Area along the way offers a popular spot for picnicking, fishing, and boating.

Trolley Trail (CT)

Rail-Trail

State: CT
Length: 0.75 miles
Surface: Asphalt

The Trolley Trail runs through Plainfield and is a key link the East Coast Greenway. Plans are to use this trail as a link between the Moosup Valley State Park Trail and the Airline State Park Trail.

Upper Charles Rail Trail (Holliston)

Rail-Trail

State: MA
Length: 2.50 miles
Surface: Asphalt

The Holliston segment of the Upper Charles Trail is being developed in sections. As of early 2012, a gravel section along the railroad right-of-way is open between Cross Street and South Street. The Upper Charles Trail will be 20 miles when complete and will incorporate the communities of Milford, Ashland, Hopkinton, Sherborn and Holliston, linking the towns via an abandoned CSX rail bed. Portions of the Milford Section are complete.

Upper Charles Rail Trail (Milford)

Rail-Trail

State: MA
Length: 6.20 miles
Surface: Asphalt

The Upper Charles Trail Milford section forms a completed 6.2 miles of a proposed 20-mile trail that will incorporate the communities of Milford, Ashland, Hopkinton, Sherborn and Holliston, linking the towns via an abandoned CSX rail bed. The Milford section is the first to open and extends from the town center north to the Hopkinton town line, east to the border of Holliston and south to the senior center. From the west end of Veteran's Memorial Drive (off of Medway Road) to Mt. Pleasant Street there is a 1-mile section of unimproved footpath, which is not yet developed as a multi-use trail.

Washington Secondary Bike Path

Rail-Trail

State: RI
Length: 14.20 miles
Surface: Asphalt

The Washington Secondary Bike Path actually comprises four trails along an old Hartford, Providence, & Fishkill Railroad corridor. Together, the Cranston Bike Path, Warwick Bike Path, West Warwick Greenway and Coventry Greenway create 14.2 miles of paved trail.
When completed, the bike path will run a total of 25 miles from Providence to the Moosup Valley State Park Trail at the Connecticut state line. From Coventry west to Connecticut, the bike path is known as the Trestle Trail, which is passable on foot, mountain bike or horseback but can be bumpy and rough. Take your chances or wait until the official Washington Secondary Bike Path is developed through this stretch
The old rail line that the bike path occupies was used primarily to carry goods to manufacturers, lumberyards, grain distributors and the old Narragansett Brewery in Cranston. From the path, you'll see evidence of mills the freight cars once serviced.
Begin at Depot Street in Cranston, here known as the Cranston Bikeway, a neighborhood trail that passes through commercial and residential areas before reaching a quiet, wooded section flanked by split-rail fencing. Before leaving Cranston, you will pass through Oaklawn Village Center, with a parking lot and gazebo, and cross Meshanticut Brook.
The trail then takes a quick, 1.5-mile spin through Warwick on the Warwick Bike Path and into West Warwick. Along this section, the route negotiates two curves, quite unusual for a rail-trail. At West Warwick, the trail is known locally as the West Warwick Greenway. You'll travel through an old mill area along the Pawtuxet River. This area is a center of redevelopment activity, with conversions of old mill buildings. A red New York, New Haven, & Hartford Railroad caboose stands proudly by the trail.
Beyond the village of Arctic, the bike path continues into Coventry then passes through a rural, wooded area with views of the Flat River Reservoir, where the developed trail ends for now (early 201

PROJECT: Watertown Multi-Use Path

Rail-Trail

State: MA
Length: 0.85 miles
Surface:

This DCR project is under construction and follows a previous rail bed from School Street to Grove Street in Watertown. This portion should be completed in the spring of 2011. The DCR will extend this project to connect with the Alewife trail and MBTA station.

William C. O'Neill Bike Path

Rail-Trail

State: RI
Length: 6.80 miles
Surface: Asphalt

Named for the late state senator who spearheaded development of the trail, the William C. O'Neill Bike Path (a.k.a. South County Bike Path) follows the route of the former Narragansett Pier Railroad, which connected the coastal village of South Kingston with the Narragansett Pier. Built in 1876, the railroad carried passengers to the pier, where they caught the ferry to Newport. It also delivered coal and lumber from the bay to inland villages. In 1921 rail buses—actual buses adapted to ride the rails—replaced regular passenger cars on the line. Locals affectionately called these unique buses Mickey-Dinks, after two of the drivers.
Starting from the restored Kingston Station (home to the Rhode Island Railroad Museum; open weekends), this 6.1-mile bike path traverses the Great Swamp Wildlife Management Area. Particularly in the spring and fall, you'll encounter flocks of migratory birds. Just beyond Curtis Corner Middle School, footpaths on both sides of the trail lead to Tri-Ponds Park, which features three ponds, streams, 2 miles of nature trails, resident wildlife and a nature center. Continuing on the bike path, you'll wind through the quaint towns of Peace Dale and Wakefield, both rich in historical landmarks. A new extension crosses Kingstown Road (Rt. 108) at MacArthur Boulevard (follow along MacArthur) then goes under US 1 to end abruptly at Mumford Road in Narragansett.
Plans are underway to extend the trail another mile to the ocean. Until then, if you want to travel to the beach, turn right at the end of the bike path onto Mumford Road then left on Kingstown Road (US 1A) and follow it to the ocean, bearing left on Narragansett Avenue to parking at Beach Street.

Woonasquatucket River Greenway (Northwest Bike Trail)

State: RI
Length: 5.20 miles
Surface: Asphalt

NOTE: The bike trail will be closed between the footbridge at Merino Park (Sheridan Street) to Manton Gateway, from September 25, 2011, through February 2013, for work on Phase II of the Narragansett Bay Commission's Combined Sewer Overflow Abatement Program. There is a signed detour on city streets. Click here for updates.
The Woonasquatucket River Greenway (a.k.a. the Northwest Bike Trail and the Fred Lippitt Woonasquatucket River Greenway) is an important non-motorized transportation corridor and local recreation trail, linking Providence with Johnston. The trail runs between Waterplace Park by the Providence Place Mall off I-95 and Lyman Road in Johnston. Much of the eastern 2 miles of the trail is on-road, with a few short segments on a separate trail (right at Waterplace Park and between Eagle St. and Atwells Ave.). The eastern end near the mall is undergoing redevelopment of the old mills into retail, offices and residences. Here you can also pick up the Providence Riverwalk.
The on-road segments have striped bike lanes on Promenade Street and Providence Place; signs direct you to Donigian Park on Valley Street and Riverside Park on Aleppo Street. There are spur trails at Button Hole Golf Course and Manton Avenue (steep grade). The off-road trail (about 3 miles worth) begins in earnest at Aleppo Street near Riverside Park (at mile 2.3).