Northern Rail Trail

What time of year is the best time to enjoy the 4 season recreational Northern Rail Trail in Dartmouth Lake Sunapee Region of New Hampshire, U.S.A.? If I were forced to choose, it would be in fall when the leaves turn the hills a fiery red and the air is crisp and clean. Oh, but how about summertime when the skies are bright blue and the gravel trail beckons walkers, runners and bicyclists alike. And then, there is springtime when the flowering trees peek out from the sides of the trail to welcome all comers. For those who enjoy the winter sports there is nothing like cross-country skiing or snowshoeing on the surface of a newly fallen, squeaky dry snow cover. So there is the answer, anytime is a great time to visit the Northern Rail Trail.

Geographically located right in the middle of classic New England, the 58 mile (93+ kilometers) rail trail crosses New Hampshire beginning just north of the state’s capitol in Concord, N.H. extending almost to Vermont in Lebanon, N.H. Because it was once the rail bed of the Northern Railroad built in 1847 the gradient never exceeds 1 percent, and the trail is wide and comfortable to traverse. The beauty of the countryside through which it passes includes rivers, working farms, lakes and vistas typical of the New England landscape so loved by travelers.

An additional treat for railroad buffs is the fact that so many historical artifacts remain. Original granite mile markers dot the length of the rail trail as do telltales, a couple of old railway stations and noteworthy rock work supporting trestle crossings and culverts.

Come see New England as it looked in the 1850s, stop mid-trail at the Danbury Country Store for a rest and old fashioned treats, soak up the fresh air and good hospitality of the area and come back again and again.

For more information, please visit www.fnrt.org or Friends of the Northern Rail Trail on Facebook. The innkeepers of our region (www.nhcountryinns.com) are ready to help you enjoy the Northern Rail Trail.