COTTON VALLEY RAIL TRAIL TOUR
The Cotton Valley Rail Trail is a hard-packed, family-friendly multi-use rail trail that meanders along lake Wentworth and Crescent Lake , over trestles, scenic wetlands, Albee beach, backwoods, and fields. The Trail links the towns of Wolfeboro, Brookfield, and Wakefield by way of the old Wolfeboro Railroad bed.
Uses: Walking, running, bicycling, rail cars, wildlife viewing, fishing, and in the winter cross-country skiing & snowmobiling.
The Trail is handicap accessible between Wolfeboro and Wakefield, with the exception of one mile between Clark Road Brookfield and Route 16.
Trail Amenities: Restrooms and portable toilets, parking, benches, picnic tables, beach, historic train sites: turntable, sheep pass-throughs, and old trestles.
Length: The total trail distance is twelve (12) miles between downtown Wolfeboro through Brookfield to Miss Wakefield Diner, Sanbornville/Wakefield, New Hampshire.
Surface: Hard packed in between and outside railroad tracks. The trail has some small hills.
Caution is recommended when using platforms to transition on and between the rails.
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
- Lake Winnipesaukee Views: The trail offers stunning views of New Hampshire’s largest lake, with plenty of spots to stop, take photos, or simply enjoy the tranquil surroundings.
- Historic Railroad Features: The trail was once a rail line, and several remnants of its past, like old train tracks and signal boxes, remain. It's especially popular for rail enthusiasts who appreciate the preserved railroad infrastructure.
- Rustic Bridges and Wetlands: The trail crosses various bridges that provide beautiful views of wetlands, marshes, and streams, allowing for wildlife sightings such as birds and turtles.
- Cotton Valley Station: This former train station serves as a small historical point of interest where visitors can see relics of the old railway and learn more about the trail's heritage.
- Wooded Trails and Quiet Nature: As the trail meanders through shaded woodlands, it provides a peaceful escape, ideal for those looking to experience the quiet beauty of nature.
- Fernald Station Museum: Located near the trailhead in Wolfeboro, this small museum gives insights into the area's rail history and is a great starting point for your journey.
The Golden Rules – to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all rail trail users:
- Use Safe Speeds, Trail Speed Limit Is posted 10mph
- Bicyclists should always yield to pedestrians as well as to horses
- Be Alert
- Keep Right, Pass Left
- Warn users as you approach them from the rear
- Pass on the left after giving an audible signal
- Allow other users to pass on your left
- Standing Still? Stand Aside
- Mind Your Pets. You are responsible for removing all waste
- Know and Follow the Rules and Laws governing the trail you are using
- Leave No Trace – Help us keep our trails clean