Northern Rail Trail

The Northern Rail Trail is generally considered easy to moderate. As a rail trail, it follows gentle grades with a primarily packed gravel, crushed stone, or cinder surface, making it suitable for a wide range of users. While mostly flat, some sections, particularly starting from Lebanon, have a gradual uphill climb.

Yes, the Northern Rail Trail is dog-friendly. Please ensure your dog is kept on a leash and that you clean up after them to maintain the trail's cleanliness for all users.

The trail is accessible year-round and offers different experiences depending on the season. Spring and fall provide pleasant temperatures and beautiful foliage, while summer is great for longer excursions. In winter, it's popular for cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, and snowshoeing.

No, there are no permits required or entrance fees to access and enjoy the Northern Rail Trail. It is freely accessible to the public.

There are numerous clearly marked parking areas and access points along the entire 59-mile length of the trail, from Lebanon to Boscawen. Information kiosks are often available at these access points to help you plan your route.

The trail offers diverse and picturesque scenery. You'll pass through historic villages, wooded valleys, corn and hay fields, wetlands, and hills. Expect views of scenic lakes like Mascoma Lake and Highland Lake, as well as the Mascoma and Blackwater Rivers. Impressive rock cuts are also visible near Mascoma Lake.

The trail is rich in history, following the former Boston & Maine Railroad line. You can observe historical artifacts, granite stonework, and visit the restored 1874 Potter Place Railroad Station, which houses a museum. Other landmarks include the Shaker Bridge (built in 1849), the Baltic Mill and dam, and the Keniston Covered Bridge over the Blackwater River. There's also a tunnel under Route 4.

Absolutely. Its generally flat and smooth terrain makes it very suitable for families with children and beginners. Many sections are easy to navigate, and the multi-use nature means you'll find people of all ages enjoying it.

Yes, you'll find amenities along the route. The trail connects several towns and villages, offering access to restrooms, convenience stores, and welcome centers. Some sections may also have cafes or other eateries nearby.

The time it takes depends entirely on the section you choose and your pace. The entire trail is 59 miles long, so most people hike or bike specific segments. For example, a short 3.2 km section might take around 50 minutes to hike at a moderate pace, while longer sections could be multi-hour or multi-day excursions.

The Merrimack County portion, stretching from Boscawen to Danbury, is particularly noted for its excellent and well-maintained surface. For scenic beauty, sections around Mascoma Lake and those passing through historic villages are highly recommended.