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Mass Central Rail Trail - Wachusett Greenways section
4.7 ★★★★★ 91 Google reviews · Running trail in Rutland, Massachusetts · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Mixed
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Posted hours
Confirmed from Mass Central Rail Trail - Wachusett Greenways section'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.
Hiking, biking, birding and XC-skiing area featuring riverside trails and wooded paths.
What runners say about Mass Central Rail Trail - Wachusett Greenways section
“We did Rutland to Barre, next time will do the other way and go down on the way back, great views, plenty on nice spots to stop and just look at nature”
Good for morning bike ride a total of 17 miles with about 500ft elevation gain. Scenic trail all along with few highway intersections, please be careful 🙏
Beautiful nature, very peaceful. We crossed paths with handful of people running/biking. This trail is baby stroller accessible and highly recommend for families! Parking lot is pretty small, maybe 8 cars.
Smooth gravel trail through some lovely countryside. Great for hiking and cycling. There are many benches along the way if you need a break. Great for families: just keep in mind that like other rail trails you will be crossing and possibly walking on public roads that cross the trails path.
The section of the Mass Central Rail Trail under the stewardship of Wachusett Greenways is ideal for a wide range of non-motorized recreational opportunities -- walking, running, cycling, XC skiing, birding, fishing, and much more.
Trail conditions & character
“We did Rutland to Barre, next time will do the other way and go down on the way back, great views, plenty on nice spots to stop and just look at nature”
“Off-road parking is provided in many convenient locations adjacent the trail.”
“Trail is gravel great for biking walking and also to bring your dogs”
“This trail is baby stroller accessible and highly recommend for families!”
“There are also single tracks and more advanced trails for those that want to adventure in the terrain.”
“It is mostly level and in good condition but not paved.”
Plan your run at Mass Central Rail Trail - Wachusett Greenways section
The practical stuff
- AccessPosted hours — posted hours below; park gates sometimes close earlier than the listing says
- SurfaceMixed — more than one surface along the route, so check the segment you plan to run
- 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
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
- Websitewachusettgreenways.org
- Phone+1 508-479-2123
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | 7 am–8 pm |
| Tuesday | 7 am–8 pm |
| Wednesday | 7 am–8 pm |
| Thursday | 7 am–8 pm |
| Friday | 7 am–8 pm |
| Saturday | 7 am–8 pm |
| Sunday | 7 am–8 pm |
Running trails near Rutland
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Trout Brook Recreation Area
4.6 ★★★★★ 211 reviews
Kid-friendly place with clean facilities featuring woodland trails for hiking, biking and running.
Moore State Park
4.8 ★★★★★ 952 reviews
Tranquil, densely-forested area with short hiking trails, picturesque old mills & a charming pond.
Hendrickson Orchard Trailhead
4.5 ★★★★★ 2 reviews
Wachusett Mountain State Reservation
4.7 ★★★★★ 4,269 reviews
Protected area including roadways to the summit, 17 miles of hiking & biking trails & ski slopes.
Mass Central Rail Trail (West Boylston)
4.7 ★★★★★ 164 reviews
Hiking, biking, and dog walking are allowed on this quiet trail with picnic tables.