Home › Massachusetts › Cheshire › Ashuwillticook Rail Trail
Ashuwillticook Rail Trail
4.8 ★★★★★ 460 Google reviews · Running trail in Cheshire, Massachusetts · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Paved
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Posted hours
Confirmed from Ashuwillticook Rail Trail's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Family-friendly biking & walking route along an old train line, with cross-country skiing in winter.
What runners say about Ashuwillticook Rail Trail
“The trail itself is well-maintained and flat, making it perfect for all skill levels.”
“Lots of parking, beautiful scenery, birds in full song - we even saw a young beaver that swam under a bridge from one side of the trail to the other.”
“Great place to take a stroll, jog, bike ride and take your leashed dog.”
“Get out and take a walk, enjoy the rail trails in Massachusetts, there family friendly and fabulous.”
It is springtime in the Berkshires, the birds are singing and the trees are dressing up. It wonderful place to be. The trail is maintained well.
Beautiful and relaxing trail. Depending on the time of the day and day of the week it can be a bit crowded. Sometimes it's hard to find parking on the weekends in the lots near the Berkshire Mall.
Lovely bike trail with plenty of scenery. The length adds up to roughly 27 miles to the end and back. Very few inclines/declines. There’s a lot of shade along the way, too. You’re not stuck in the hot sun the entire time.
Smoothest pavement and best maintained rail trail we've ever had the pleasure of riding. Saw lots of turtles! Look for them in the murky shallows.
Trail conditions & character
“You’ll pass by lakes, forests, a river with a waterfall, and near the end you’ll be in the town of Adams, where you can grab lunch or dinner or just a quick snack.”
“Lots of parking, beautiful scenery, birds in full song - we even saw a young beaver that swam under a bridge from one side of the trail to the other.”
“This paved pathway runs parallel to Route 8, offering a smoother journey for all, including our four-legged friends.”
“Highly suggested for beginner to intermediate level bikers looking for something long and easy.”
“Plenty of parking options There was also restrooms located at parking lots and plenty of tables and benches along the way.”
“So whether you're there to break a sweat or simply to wander, this trail offers a little something for everyone, dogs included.”
Plan your run at Ashuwillticook Rail Trail
The practical stuff
- AccessPosted hours — posted hours below; park gates sometimes close earlier than the listing says
- SurfacePaved — asphalt or concrete. Fast and predictable, runnable year-round, and fine with a stroller
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Websitemass.gov
- Phone+1 413-499-7003
Hours
| Monday | 6 am–9 pm |
| Tuesday | 6 am–9 pm |
| Wednesday | 6 am–9 pm |
| Thursday | 6 am–9 pm |
| Friday | 6 am–9 pm |
| Saturday | 6 am–9 pm |
| Sunday | 6 am–9 pm |
Running trails near Cheshire
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Springside Park
4.1 ★★★★☆ 278 reviews
Familiar hangout featuring tranquil gardens, a pond & an arboretum, plus ball fields & picnic spots.
Balance Rock Loop Trail
4.5 ★★★★★ 154 reviews
Popular spot for hiking and picnics, featuring a large balancing rock.
