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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 first section of the 5 mile (off-road) paved trail was

One of the many breathtaking views of ponds along the Manhan Rail Trail in Easthampton

completed in 2003 after 10 years of planning and fundraising. A second section opened in the spring of 2011 and a third section is expected to open this fall. It is proposed that eventually, the trail will connect all the way from New Haven, Connecticut to Northampton, Massachusetts and beyond.

Trail Highlights:

The north end of the trail begins at the Route 5 Trailhead (there is some “unofficial” parking here.) This area is commonly called “Mt. Tom Junction“.  Back when the path was used as a railroad, a train engine fondly called “Tommy” ran back and forth along this route.

Heading south you will come upon a spectacular overlook of the Connecticut River Oxbow to your right.  This loop of the river was cut off by land and now teems with wildlife.  Look for osprey, ravens and great blue herons.  It’s also a popular boating and water skiing area.

Further south, you’ll come to a sign marking the Pascommuck Trust Conservation Area.  Take the stairs up the bank to find a nice picnic spot and a boulder marking the site of the 1704 Indian and settler conflict.

Continuing along the trail you might consider a side trip to the Arcadia Wildlife Sanctuary.  Take a right off the trail at Fort Hill Road and follow the road to Arcadia where you’ll find walking trails and a nature center.

Back on the trail you’ll notice the Mt. Tom Range which evolved through volcanic action, creating basalt columns visible from Easthampton.  Its also prime hawk-watching territory – each fall thousands of hawks and other birds migrate past the mountain.

Next up, you’ll pass the Northeast Center for Youth and Families (formerly Tri-County School) at 203

East Street which allows parking for trail users.

After crossing Gosselin Drive, Arthur Street and finally Ferry Street, you will come upon the newly developed Millside Park, which provides parking, rest rooms, an exercise course, basketball courts, picnic tables and a band shell.

Manhan Rail Trail Committee members Eleanor Kwolek and Barbara LaBombard help clean up the trail this past spring.

Further along, you will travel behind Hampton Mills.  Built in the late 1800′s, this extensive mill complex processed textiles for many years.  Be sure to visit Eastworks, a mill building which houses shops, galleries, restaurants, artists studios and loft apartments.

Next you will cross Union Street in the center of Easthampton’s business district.  Stop for a bite to eat, or peruse the many shops and galleries.

Just beyond Union Street, you will come upon the Manhan Rail Trail Millenium Mural.  This mural was painted by community volunteers under the direction of artist Nora Valdez.  It was completed in 2002.  Directly opposite the mural, you will see the old train depot, now privately owned.

Next you will cross Payson Avenue.  Taking a left down Payson will bring you to the picturesque Nashawannuck Pond.  This landmark was created in 1847 by the damming of Broad Brook.  On a clear, still day, look for the reflection of Mt. Tom in the water.  This reflection is commonly known as “the bottle” and is featured on Easthampton’s municipal seal.

From the pond, you may take a side trip to Nonotuck Park by continuing up Williston Avenue.  This city park has a swimming pool and sprinkler park, ball fields, picnic areas, tennis courts, trails and public rest rooms. (retrace your steps to get back to the Manhan Rail Trail)

Back on the trail just south of Payson Avenue, you will see the Williston Northampton School. This prestigious day and boarding school was founded in 1841 as the Williston Seminary.

The new section of the Manhan Rail Trail connecting Northampton to Easthampton is proving to be very popular.

The trail officially ends at South Street, but construction is nearly complete on the extension to Coleman Road in Southampton in 2011. (see related story in “News”) There is currently no parking at the southern end of the trail.

A spur that connects the Manhan Rail Trail to Northampton trails opened in May 2011.   This project, funded by federal stimulus dollars, began in the fall of 2009.

The spur begins at Ferry Street in Easthampton and runs adjacent to the western edge of the Arcadia Wildlife Sanctuary before connecting to the Northampton trail at Earle Street (near the Smith College Equestrian Center)

The Manhan Rail Trail bridge over the Manhan River at Lovefield Street was installed September 23, 2011.

The bridge over the Manhan River near Lovefield Street, installed in September 2011, is now open.  Ramps have been paved and lined.

An official grand opening of the bridge and the South Street to Coleman Road section is currently under discussion.  In the meantime, enjoy the trail!