Welcome to the Manhan Rail Trail!
Nestled in the heart of the scenic Pioneer Valley of Western Massachusetts, Easthampton’s Manhan Rail Trail offers unique recreational opportunities to people of all ages and interests. Bike, jog, roller blade, cross country ski or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll on what was once a viable rail corridor. The 4.2 mile (off-road) paved trail was completed in 2003 after 10 years of planning and fundraising. It is proposed that eventually, the trail will connect all the way from New Haven, Connecticut to Northampton, Massachusetts and beyond.
Why a Rail Trail?
In a way, the rails-to-trails movement is the ultimate form of recycling. Not just a recycling of raw materials, but of entire institutions (canals, railroads) left behind by the citizens of earlier eras.
Using the Manhan Rail Trail is healthy. The exercise is good for the body; the meditation is good for the mind. What a great idea for a weekend family outing — combining fresh air, exercise, and nature.
The Manhan Rail Trail is also a viable alternative transportation corridor (ATC). As such, it contributes to an overall reduction in our collective dependence upon fossil fuels.
Upcoming Events:
Weeding work party: Thursday, Aug. 7th
We have scheduled an after-work weeding party for Thursday, August 7th, starting about 4:30 to 5 p.m. Meet at the mural planting bed near Payson Ave. - bring any weeding utensils you have.
Even if you only have a short time to help, please come pull some weeds so we can all get home for dinner on time!
Please call Barbara at 529-1460 or send an e-mail to cityclerk@easthampton.org if you have any questions!
Rail Trail Meeting
Our next meeting has been scheduled for Monday, August 25th at 7 p.m. at 50 Payson Ave., Conference Room #1.
Williston Plans Garden Along Manhan Rail Trail
Manhan Rail Trail users will soon have a beautiful garden to visit along the stretch between the old railroad station and Union Street. The grassy area is owned by Williston Northampton School, which plans to landscape the parcel as early as this fall.
The garden design includes walking paths, sculptures, specimen trees, shrubs and flowers. Planners also hope to include a few sections of the original iron and granite fencing that graced Williston years ago. The garden will be accessible from two points along the trail as well as one point on Railroad Street.
The project is being funded by an anonymous donor. School officials say they hope to get estimates for the project this summer and begin construction as soon as possible.
Adaptive Cycling Program
Beginning on July 17, All Out Adventures will be offering adaptive cycling for people with disabilities and their family and friends on Thursday afternoons from 12-4. Download their flyer to learn more about the program.
Bicycling classes
Local bicycle instructor Ralph Sturgen is offering riding classes. Download the PDF posters (Part 1, Part 2, and Part 3) to learn more about them, and sign up to become a better rider today!
