Norwottuck Rail Trail
🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆 Five College Trail — 10-mile paved rail trail connecting Northampton and Amherst — “Five College” region’s premier bike path
Norwottuck Rail Trail runs 10 miles from Northampton to Amherst through the heart of the Pioneer Valley’s “Five College” region (UMass Amherst, Amherst College, Hampshire College, Smith College, Mount Holyoke College). The paved trail follows the former Boston and Maine Railroad through Connecticut River farmland, crossing the spectacular Elwell Island bridge over the Connecticut River. The trail connects two of New England’s most vibrant college towns — Northampton’s arts scene and Amherst’s literary heritage (Emily Dickinson’s home).
Visitor Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Northampton → Amherst (Pioneer Valley) |
| Length | 10 miles (paved) |
| Entry Fee | Free |
| Culture | 5 colleges! Dickinson! Art scene! |
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Five Colleges?
UMass Amherst, Amherst College, Hampshire College, Smith College, and Mount Holyoke College form a unique consortium. Students can cross-register at any campus — the trail connects this extraordinary intellectual community.
About Norwottuck Rail Trail
Norwottuck Rail Trail is a 10-mile paved path through the scenic Pioneer Valley connecting Northampton, Hadley, and Amherst — the heart of Massachusetts’ Five College area. The trail crosses the Connecticut River on a dramatic converted railroad bridge and passes through farmland with views of the Holyoke Range. It’s one of the most popular cycling trails in New England.
Things to Do
Cycling, walking, and inline skating on the paved trail, crossing the Connecticut River on the rail bridge, enjoying views of the Holyoke Range and farm scenery, and connecting to the college towns of Northampton and Amherst for dining and culture.
Insider Tips
Five College corridor: Norwottuck Rail Trail runs 11 miles through the Five College area — connecting Amherst, Northampton, and Hadley. Pro tip: The trail crosses the Connecticut River on a converted railroad bridge — a scenic highlight. Five Colleges: UMass Amherst, Amherst College, Hampshire College, Smith College, and Mount Holyoke College create one of the densest concentrations of higher education in America.
Best Time to Visit
Fall: Connecticut Valley foliage from the trail bridge. Summer: College town exploring and cycling. Spring: Campus blooms and river views. Winter: Often plowed for winter use.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Five College Consortium?
The Five Colleges — UMass Amherst, Amherst, Hampshire, Smith, and Mount Holyoke — share resources, students can cross-register, and free buses connect the campuses. The consortium creates a combined student body of 40,000+ in a rural valley — producing an unusually vibrant cultural scene. Northampton is consistently rated one of the best small arts cities in America.
Park Location
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