Photo and text by Ellen Kolb: Rockingham Recreational Trail, Auburn NH
New Hampshire’s multi-use rail trails don’t take a season off. Winter is a time for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Some rail trails are snowmobile trails as well, and this is a time to thank the snowmobile clubs whose members help maintain the trails for everyone’s benefit.
After a generous snowfall, it’s tempting to grab snowshoes and head to the nearest trailhead. Once you get there, if you’re using one of the rail trails open to snowmobiles, you’re likely to see a sign telling you which local club handles trail grooming. Keep an eye out for the grooming machines that create a path of compacted snow along the trail – and wave to the driver!
Keep in mind a little bit of trail etiquette. Snowmobilers will stick to the rail trails marked for their use, and will be mindful of non-motorized skiers and hikers. Where cross-country ski tracks are present, snowshoers and hikers will walk next to rather than on top of them. Slower traffic always stays to the right.
With courtesy and good humor, everyone can enjoy wintertime shared use of the rail trails. Look for one near you, and enjoy the snow!
To read more by Ellen Kolb – check out her blog: Granite State Walker