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West River Trail

Hiking trails & Routes

West River Trail

Moderate

2.9

(2)

hikers

West River Trail

Q: What is the terrain like on the trail?

The Lower Section of the West River Trail near Brattleboro is generally flat and well-drained, with much of it surfaced with compacted stone dust. It follows an old railroad grade, making for a gentle and easy hike. The path is 60 inches wide and largely level, primarily dirt and gravel. While generally well-maintained, some areas may have small rocks and stumps.

Q: Where can I park to access the trail?

You can access the trail from several points. Two main trailheads are the West River Trail — Spring Tree Road Trailhead and the West River Trail — Black Mountain Trailhead . Both typically offer parking options.

Q: Is the trail suitable for dogs?

Yes, the West River Trail is popular with families and is generally considered dog-friendly. Always ensure your dog is on a leash and follow local regulations regarding pet waste.

Q: What is the best time of year to hike this route?

The trail offers continuous views of the vibrant Vermont hills, making autumn a particularly good time to visit for the spectacular fall foliage. However, its well-drained and largely level terrain makes it accessible and enjoyable throughout the warmer months.

Q: Are there any permits or entrance fees required?

No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to access the West River Trail.

Q: What kind of scenery can I expect along the way?

You'll enjoy quiet forests, mixed hardwoods, and wetlands, with many sections staying close to the West River , providing frequent river views. The trail also features a floodplain forest and a rare, ice-scoured riverine cobblestone ecosystem within the Riverstone Preserve.

Q: What wildlife might I see on the trail?

Wildlife sightings like beavers and herons are possible along the river and in the wetland areas.

Q: Does the trail have any historical significance?

Yes, the trail is historically significant as it traces the bed of the former West River Railroad, which was built in 1879. You can still see remnants of the historic railroad, including old stonework and bridge abutments, along the route.

Q: Is the trail suitable for beginners or families with children?

Absolutely. The trail's generally flat, well-drained, and wide path, following an old railroad grade, makes it a gentle and easy hike, popular with families and suitable for beginners.

Q: Can I combine this trail with other routes for a longer adventure?

Yes, the trail connects to other sections and can be combined with local roads for extended biking or hiking. The Friends of the West River Trail maintain 16 miles of an Upper Section in towns like Townshend, Jamaica, and Londonderry, offering further exploration opportunities.

03:15

12.1km

140m

Hiking

Hike the moderate 7.5-mile West River Trail in Brattleboro, Vermont, gaining 470 feet with continuous river views and historic railroad remn

Last updated: February 26, 2026

Waypoints

Start point

Get Directions

83 m

West River Trail — Spring Tree Road Trailhead

Highlight • Trail

You park near the marina at the southern end of Spring Tree Road in a large gravel lot by the river. From here you follow the river north on the road to where it quickly becomes a bike path.

Tip by

2.99 km

West River

Highlight • River

The West River flows south along the path to Brattleboro, where it merges with the Connecticut River at the Vermont - New Hampshire border. The trail here is a nice …

Tip by

6.07 km

West River Trail — Black Mountain Trailhead

Highlight • Trail

Here you can hike up the trail to Black Mountain, which is a beautiful forested trail with a number of water features. Hiking along the West River Trail for the …

Tip by

12.1 km

End point

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

11.3 km

775 m

< 100 m

Surfaces

11.3 km

775 m

< 100 m

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Weather

Today

Tuesday 26 May

29°C

10°C

12 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 14.0 km/h

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This route was planned by komoot.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the terrain like on the trail?

The Lower Section of the West River Trail near Brattleboro is generally flat and well-drained, with much of it surfaced with compacted stone dust. It follows an old railroad grade, making for a gentle and easy hike. The path is 60 inches wide and largely level, primarily dirt and gravel. While generally well-maintained, some areas may have small rocks and stumps.

Where can I park to access the trail?

You can access the trail from several points. Two main trailheads are the West River Trail — Spring Tree Road Trailhead and the West River Trail — Black Mountain Trailhead. Both typically offer parking options.

Is the trail suitable for dogs?

Yes, the West River Trail is popular with families and is generally considered dog-friendly. Always ensure your dog is on a leash and follow local regulations regarding pet waste.

What is the best time of year to hike this route?

The trail offers continuous views of the vibrant Vermont hills, making autumn a particularly good time to visit for the spectacular fall foliage. However, its well-drained and largely level terrain makes it accessible and enjoyable throughout the warmer months.

Are there any permits or entrance fees required?

No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to access the West River Trail.

What kind of scenery can I expect along the way?

You'll enjoy quiet forests, mixed hardwoods, and wetlands, with many sections staying close to the West River, providing frequent river views. The trail also features a floodplain forest and a rare, ice-scoured riverine cobblestone ecosystem within the Riverstone Preserve.

What wildlife might I see on the trail?

Wildlife sightings like beavers and herons are possible along the river and in the wetland areas.

Does the trail have any historical significance?

Yes, the trail is historically significant as it traces the bed of the former West River Railroad, which was built in 1879. You can still see remnants of the historic railroad, including old stonework and bridge abutments, along the route.

Is the trail suitable for beginners or families with children?

Absolutely. The trail's generally flat, well-drained, and wide path, following an old railroad grade, makes it a gentle and easy hike, popular with families and suitable for beginners.

Can I combine this trail with other routes for a longer adventure?

Yes, the trail connects to other sections and can be combined with local roads for extended biking or hiking. The Friends of the West River Trail maintain 16 miles of an Upper Section in towns like Townshend, Jamaica, and Londonderry, offering further exploration opportunities.

Are there any specific viewpoints or landmarks to look out for?

Beyond the continuous river views and vibrant Vermont hills, keep an eye out for the historic railroad remnants, including old stonework and bridge abutments. The Riverstone Preserve also offers unique natural features like the ice-scoured riverine cobblestone ecosystem.