Belfast Rail Trail

The Belfast Rail Trail is built on a former railroad bed, offering a wide, well-maintained, and mostly flat surface. It's primarily composed of packed gravel and crushed stone, making it firm and even underfoot, ideal for jogging. You'll also encounter some wooden bridges and mulched areas. While komoot rates it as 'moderate' for jogging, its generally flat and even surface makes it accessible for most skill levels.

The trail is approximately 2.2 to 2.3 miles long one way, making it about 4.5 miles for an out-and-back jog. For an average jogger, the full out-and-back route typically takes around 50-60 minutes to complete.

Yes, the trail is very suitable for beginners. Its mostly flat, wide, and well-maintained surface of packed gravel and crushed stone makes it an easy and forgiving route. It's also wheelchair accessible, highlighting its gentle nature.

Parking is generally available at both ends of the trail. One common access point is near the Belfast & Moosehead Lake Railroad station, which also offers a unique opportunity to combine your jog with a scenic train ride.

Yes, the trail is dog-friendly. Dogs are welcome, but please ensure they are kept on a leash and that you clean up after them to maintain the trail's cleanliness for all users.

The trail offers picturesque scenery year-round. Spring and fall provide vibrant foliage and comfortable temperatures. In winter, you might spot bufflehead ducks, while summer brings opportunities to see ospreys and bald eagles. The coastal scenery of Maine is beautiful in all seasons.

Absolutely. The trail follows the western bank of the Passagassawakeag River, offering excellent river views. You'll also pass through wooded areas, historic markers, and old trains at one end. Keep an eye out for an operational boatyard and local wildlife like seals, osprey, and eagles.

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Belfast Rail Trail, Passagassawakeag Greenway, and the Harbor Walk. At its northern end, it connects with the 47-mile Hills to Sea Trail, extending possibilities for longer adventures.

No, there are no permits required or entrance fees to access the Belfast Rail Trail. It is free and open to the public.

One unique aspect is the opportunity to combine your jog with a train ride. The station for the Belfast and Moosehead Lake scenic train is at one end of the trail, allowing you to potentially run to the station and then enjoy a scenic four-mile train journey.

The trail's proximity to the Passagassawakeag River makes it a great spot for wildlife viewing. Birdwatchers might spot bufflehead ducks in winter and ospreys and bald eagles in summer. You may also catch glimpses of seals in the river.