Rutland-Barre Central MA Rail Trail Hike
Quick Facts
- Distance: 4–8 miles (choose your own turnaround point)
- Difficulty: Easy
- Restrictions: No motorized vehicles
- Trailhead: Large gravel parking lot on Route 122, 0.6 miles north of the Route 122A intersection, just north of Whitehall Road
Overview
This section of the Mass Central Rail Trail offers an easy, mostly flat walk past wetlands, streams, and several large ponds. The trail crosses Route 122 and continues north for about four miles to the Quabbin distribution facility on the Ware River. You can hike this route as a short stroll, a longer out‑and‑back, or a one‑way trip if you arrange a pickup.
Route Description
1. Start at the Rutland Parking Lot
- From the parking area, look for the path at the north corner of the lot.
- Follow this short connector trail downhill to the rail trail.
- Turn left (north) onto the Mass Central Rail Trail.
As you walk, the wide, firm trail passes wetlands and streams and eventually crosses Route 122 at grade.
Continue north for as long as you like—up to four miles—to reach the Quabbin distribution building, where water is managed before flowing toward the Wachusett Reservoir and Boston.
2. Return
- When you’re ready, simply turn around and follow the rail trail back to the parking lot.
Additional Options
- Several side trails branch off the main corridor and can be explored.
- The Mass Central Rail Trail also continues east from the parking lot, running several miles back toward Glenwood Road on the east side of Rutland.
- This entire trail system is excellent for walking, biking, and cross‑country skiing.
