Please be aware that the northern half of Vermont was affected by major flooding. Roads to trailheads may not be open for the weekend, turn around if you encounter closed roads.

Cotton Valley Rail Trail

This re-purposed railroad leads users through towns, forests, and across causeways with stunning views of Lake Wentworth and the surrounding area. 
Trail Activity
Walking Hiking Bicycling Snowmobiling
Length
12.00 miles, One Way
Difficulty
Easy
Towns
Brookfield (NH), Wakefield (NH), Wolfeboro (NH)
Surface
Packed Earth/Dirt, Gravel/Crushed Stone/Cinder
Pets
Permitted on leash
Fees
No

Description

From the trailhead at the restored train depot on Railroad Avenue, the Russell C. Chase Bridge Falls Path leads to the rail-trail proper. There are trail brochures available at the trailhead, which list key points of interest marked along the way.

Causeways lead across Crescent Lake and along Lake Wentworth — at times the water surrounds the trail on both sides, and the views are spectacular. Locals use the trail for commuting to work and school, as well as for recreation and traveling between neighborhoods and the Allan H. Albee Public Beach on Lake Wentworth.

Rails are still in place for the entire length of the trail. The trail surface is located mostly between the rails but from Cotton Valley Road east to Wakefield the trail surface varies between the rails and along side the rails. Trail users should use caution in this section. 

Other Information

Trail conditions change often due to weather or maintenance schedules. Before you head out, click here for up-to-date conditions and closure information. 

Trail Guidelines:

  • Thank you for sharing this multi-use trail.
  • Bicyclists please yield to pedestrians - Pass slowly and have bike in control at all times.
  • All users yield to Rail Cars.
  • Please “carry in/carry out”.
  • All dogs must be leashed at all times.
  • All dog owners are required to pick up dog waste and dispose of it properly.
  • Respect private property, stay on the designated trail.
  • Stay on the trail to avoid promoting erosion.
  • Horses are not permitted
  • No motorized vehicles except for wheelchairs

Trail Manager

For more information about the trail, check out New Hampshire's Recreational Rail Trails online, or contact:

NH Bureau of Trails

NH Bureau of Trails
172 Pembroke Road
Concord, NH 03301
Phone: (603) 271-3254
nhtrails@dncr.nh.gov
View website

Trail Tips

Be Considerate of Other Visitors
Respect other trail users and be courteous when passing.
Legend
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Trailhead Information

Wolfeboro trailhead: From the Wolfeboro Post Office, turn right onto South Main Street and then immediately right onto Depot Street. Continue straight to the restored railroad depot where parking is available and the trailhead is located. 

Wakefield trailhead: From the Wakefield Post Office, turn left onto NH-109 south and continue for 0.5 miles. The parking lot is on the left side of the road; the trailhead is located behind the parking lot. 

Click on a parking icon to get custom directions
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