Windham Rail Trail

You can find parking at the northern trailhead, which is home to the restored 1849 Windham Depot and a historic Boston & Maine C-16 caboose. This is a convenient starting point for your journey.

The Windham Rail Trail is generally considered easy and flat, making it suitable for all skill levels. Most of the trail features a paved asphalt surface, ideal for walking, running, or cycling. A portion heading south from Roulston Road might be hard-packed gravel, but it's still easily passable for hybrid or wider tires.

Yes, the trail is dog-friendly! Please ensure your dog is kept on a leash and that you clean up after them to help keep the trail enjoyable for everyone.

The trail offers diverse scenery throughout the year. Spring and fall provide pleasant temperatures and beautiful foliage. Even in warmer months, sections like the 'Rainforest Ledge' where the railbed was cut through rock, offer natural cooling. Winter hiking is also possible, but be prepared for snow and ice conditions.

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

You'll experience diverse scenery, including lush forests, tranquil wetlands, and woodsy areas. Keep an eye out for natural features like marshy areas, Mitchell Pond, and Flatrock Brook. The trail also passes by old stone walls and remnants of stone cellars, offering a glimpse into historical landscapes. Don't miss the unique 'Rainforest Ledge' for a naturally cool spot.

The trail has significant historical ties to the Boston and Maine Railroad. At the northern trailhead, you can see the restored 1849 Windham Depot and a Boston & Maine C-16 caboose. The trail itself follows the former railroad corridor, built between 1847 and 1849.

Yes, the trail is a key part of a larger network. It seamlessly connects to the Derry Rail Trail to the north and the Salem Bike-Ped Corridor to the south. This forms a significant portion of the future cross-state Granite State Rail Trail, making it ideal for longer excursions.

Absolutely! With its generally flat, paved asphalt surface and easy difficulty rating, the trail is ideal for families, including those with strollers or young children. It provides a leisurely and accessible outing.

While most of the trail is paved, if you head south from Roulston Road, you might encounter a section of hard-packed gravel. Additionally, the 'Rainforest Ledge' offers a unique, naturally cooler environment due to the railbed being cut through rock, providing a refreshing stop on warmer days.