Ware River Trail South Hike
Quick Facts
- Distance: 6.4 miles
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Elevation Gain: 250 feet
- Restrictions: Dogs must be leashed, No bikes or horses
Trailhead
- Barre. Park on the east side of Route 122 at the Kayak Boat Launch, 4.6 miles north of the junction of Routes 122 and 122A in Rutland.
- Google Map
Description
- This section of the Ware River Rail Trail follows the river along a wide, well‑maintained gravel path. The route runs from Route 122 in Barre to Route 62 in Hubbardston, then loops over a small hill on the return. The trail continues north beyond Route 62 toward Templeton, Baldwinville, and Winchendon, forming a long, mostly passable rail‑trail corridor.
Route Details
1. Start at the gate
- Follow the rail trail north along the Ware River.
- Optional spur: After 1/3 mile, Bear right onto a short side path to reach a scenic riverside spot, then return to the main trail.
2. Riverside Cemetery
- After about 2 miles, you’ll see Riverside Cemetery on the right. This abandoned cemetery was once part of Coldbrook Village. It includes the grave of Elizabeth Naramore and a small monument down a short hill at the back of the site.
- Continue to Route 62, then turnaround point for this hike.
3. Return
- On the return, near the cemetery, turn right onto a quiet gravel road.
- Climb over a large hill and descend back to the parking area.
Alternative Options
- Shorter hike: Walk 1 mile to Riverside Cemetery and return.
- Simpler route: Skip the hill and do an out‑and‑back to Route 62.
- Reverse direction: Start at Route 62 and hike south.
- Explore other sections:
- Route 62 to Williamsville Road: 3 miles
- Williamsville Road to Route 101 in Templeton: 5 miles
- With a car drop, this 8‑mile stretch makes a pleasant, though not highly scenic, point‑to‑point walk.
