Goffstown Rail Trail, photo by Ellen Kolb
Find summer shade on the Granite State’s rail trails
New Hampshire’s lakes and beaches are popular on summer’s hottest days. For a less-crowded alternative, check out parks and trails close to home. For a shady option for pedestrians and cyclists, your local rail trail might be just right.
Here are a few short trail segments lined with trees to give you a shaded canopy for your summer walk or ride.
- Goffstown Rail Trail, between Danis Park Road and the Manchester city line. In addition to pleasant shade, part of the trail goes through a rock cut that looks as cool as it feels.
- The wide and newly-extended New Boston Rail Trail follows the Piscataquog River, muting the sound of traffic on nearby Route 13.
- Cheshire Rail Trail. If you visit Rhododendron State Park in Fitzwilliam to enjoy its annual bloom time in July, the Cheshire trail is only a short drive away. Try the mile-long stretch south of Rockwood Pond, which includes a view of Mount Monadnock.
- Dover Community Trail, along the Cocheco River. The western part of the trail is especially pleasant, from the Watson Road trailhead east to the Spaulding Turnpike. East of the turnpike, the trail extends into town where you can enjoy dining and sightseeing.
Whether you choose trail or shore, enjoy your summer days here in the Granite State.
For more by NHRTC Treasurer, Ellen Kolb, check out her blog: http://granitestatewalker.com/