West River Trail - Brattleboro

Built in 1879, the West River Railroad was originally a narrow gauge that ran 36 miles linking the industrial communities of Brattleboro and Londonderry. It was later rebuilt to standard gauge but abandoned in 1936.

16 miles are now rail trails. I rode the short but scenic first 3 1/2 mile section out of Brattleboro.

Trail Head runs through a corn field

There is a slight detour up the riverbank hill to avoid construction on  the I-91 Bridge...

...but most of the rest of the trail is quite scenic

Peak upriver

Sections run a little further away from the riverbank
over slight embankments through marshy areas 

The first section ends at this road (ALL TOO SHORT!)

Apparently you could continue of this road for a few miles
to connect with the other section of the rail trail

Super Short One-Handed Riding Video

More Info

Did You Know?
New York’s Plaza Hotel was built from quarry brought from Dummerston on this rail line.

"Forgotten Rails" - The West River Railroad >
Great Video - Lots of History!

West River (Trail Link Info)

Abandoned Rails - The West River Railroad >