Granite Town Rail Trail

Summary

An easy walk along an abandoned rail bed. Connects to Palmer Wildlife Preserve at the south end.

Length:	3 mi.
Trailhead(s):	North side of DPW Garage on Rt. 13 South side of Armory Rd.
Allowed:	Hiking, mountain biking

Description

Also known as the Brookline & Milford Railroad, Fitchburg Line, Ayer & Milford Branch.

At the DPW Garage, the trail starts behind the fence, crossing over Great Brook on a dam that once maintained high water for town wells upstream.

Mile 0.53: After crossing Union St., you come to a concrete span over Great Brook. This span is a remnant of the old Union St. that was relocated when Rt. 101 was completed in 1978. After crossing the bridge turn right and continue to the tunnel.

Mile 0.66: Trail users cross under Rt. 101 in a tunnel 110’ long and 6’ 6” high. This “tunnel” is actually an over-flow culvert protecting the state highway from possible flooding of Great Brook.

Mile 1.20: The trail leaves the RR grade at this point and passes through private property. We are very grateful for this easement. The trail would not work without it. Please respect the rights of the landowner and stay on the trail.

Mile 2.17: The trains used to pass under Melendy Rd. but the road cut was filled when the rail service ceased. It would be wonderful to open this up again rather than scramble up one side and down the other.

Mile 2.95: PSNH easement. Ruonala Rd. is ¼ mile east following the power line.

Trail Map

Index Map