For Immediate Release

August 22, 2025

Contact

Henry Underwood, Southwest Region Planning Commission; 603-357-0557 ext. 18 or [email protected]

Will Schoefmann, City of Keene;  603-357-9802 or [email protected]

Michael Kowalczyk, Monadnock Region Rail Trail Collaborative; [email protected]

Charles Redfern, Pathways for Keene; [email protected]

Richard Pendleton, Monadnock Conservancy; 603-357-0600, ext. 110 or [email protected]

(KEENE) –  Outdoor enthusiasts, walkers, runners, and cyclists have a new way to explore the region’s scenic pathways with the release of the Monadnock Region / Keene Rail Trail Map. Available both in print and available for download, the map highlights almost 100 miles of converted rail corridors that now serve as accessible, year-round trails for recreation and transportation.

The map features Southwest NH, including all of Cheshire County and the eastern part of Hillsborough County as well as neighboring communities in Massachusetts and Vermont. The City of Keene is featured in detail. The map covers rail trails owned by the State of New Hampshire, such as the Cheshire Rail Trail as well as locally or privately managed rail trails. Designed for locals and visitors, each side offers detailed route information, access points, and connections to other trail systems. The map also features information about trail surface condition, parking locations, distances and a variety of other information like other recreational trails, permitted users (for State-owned sections), and more.

“Southwest New Hampshire has an incredible network of rail trails, but many people don’t realize how connected and accessible they are,” said Mike Kowalczyk, President of the Monadnock Region Rail Trail Collaborative “This map makes it easier than ever to discover and enjoy them.”

The collaboration between five local organizations to complete the map of the region’s rail trails was no small feat. The work was made possible through the contributions of many organizations and individuals from start to finish. The idea to create a new printed map of the region’s rail trails first came about in 2024 when the City set out to develop an updated map for kiosks around the City. Pathways for Keene saw an opportunity to expand this vision. A 2002 map of rail trails and bike routes produced by Pathways for Keene needed an update and was limited to Cheshire County. After connecting with Southwest Region Planning Commission, the Monadnock Region Rail Trail Collaborative and the Monadnock Conservancy, representatives of the five organizations regularly met to sketch out a new map which would feature both a greater amount of detail and larger area compared to previous efforts. “It’s no surprise there is demand for an updated map given our region’s extensive network and the level of interest municipalities have taken in planning initiatives focused on rail trails. We were pleased to be a part of the project and are thankful for support from New Hampshire Department of Transportation for making our involvement possible” said Henry Underwood, Senior Planner at Southwest Region Planning Commission (SWRPC).

While the map is the most comprehensive available, project partners caution readers that it was developed at one point in time using the best available information. Users should consult with trail owners before planning their trip to confirm information, access and condition.

The printed map is available in Keene at Norm’s Ski and Bike Shop Alpine Bike Works and the Greater Monadnock Collaborative regional chamber of commerce.

The online version can be accessed at the SWRPC website: www.swrpc.org/rail-trail-map or the following QR code.  Browse at home, take it with you on your phone, or to your favorite printer.

“The City of Keene is excited to promote this crucial recreational resource for both Keene and the Monadnock region’s rail trail system. These maps will help welcome residents and visitors alike to access the region and city’s wealth of trail opportunities.” The rail trails aren’t the only destination. They provide access to a variety of other trails and other opportunities. For example, the Monadnock Conservancy maintains a parking area and walking trail for the public conveniently located off the Cheshire Rail Trail in Fitzwilliam, NH at the Chamberlain Conservation Area at Sip Pond.

Other than the five partner organizations hands-on work to design the map, the project was made possible through funding from New Hampshire Department of Transportation and local donations to support an initial printing of 1,500 copies from Norm’s Ski and Bike Shop, Alpine Bike Works and Savings Bank of Walpole.

“Savings Bank of Walpole has been supporting Pathways for Keene for many years and when asked to be part of the map project, we didn’t hesitate.  Being a local bank, headquartered right here in Cheshire County, where most of our staff live and raise their families, we understand the value and lifeline that the trail systems bring to our region.  We correlate the trail systems with the economic sustainability of our region – similar to hiking or waterways, our trail systems offer recreational joy to visitors.  Having a local trail system that connects us well beyond our little corner of Southwest NH is pretty amazing.  It’s also about maintenance and accessibility – and all of this couldn’t happen without the work of Pathways for Keene, along with many other partners in the community.  Creating a map for the public (paper and digitally) is another way to help promote all that we have to offer” said Danielle Ruffo of Savings Bank of Walpole.

Project partners welcome feedback on the map as well as donations to support future updates. E-mail [email protected] for instructions on how to make a donation to the Monadnock Region Rail Trail Collaborative. Visit pathwaysforkeene.org/donate for instructions on how to donate to Pathways for Keene.

Southwest Region Planning Commission

Since 1971, Southwest Region Planning Commission has worked in partnership with the communities of the Southwest Region to promote sound decision-making for the conservation and effective management of natural, cultural and economic resources. SWRPC employs a staff of professionals with the expertise and skills to help member municipalities address a wide range of planning issues. Refer to www.swrpc.org for further information.

City of Keene

It doesn’t get much better than Keene to bike and hike, whether you are seeking a little urban or rural experience. Rail Trail options include the Cheshire Rail Trail, Ashuelot Rail Trail, and many more pathways.  Park in downtown Keene for a scenic out and back in just about any direction.  Roll or stroll through the historic area, while seeking out the “Magical History Tour” of 16 murals that grace the city’s downtown area buildings. There are six covered bridges within a 16-mile radius of downtown. If you’re thirsty or hungry, there are many inviting hotels, watering holes, bakeries, cafes and restaurants. So, if you’re looking for an adventure by bike, or hike- try Keene! Refer to keenenh.gov for further information.

Monadnock Region Rail Trail Collaborative

The MRRTC is an informal group made up of representatives of local municipalities, non-profits, and volunteers that recognize the value of collaborating on shared goals and interests for improving the region’s rail trails. This includes restoring and maintaining the Cheshire, Ashuelot, Monadnock, Peterborough, Fort Hill and other rail trails and connecting Southwest New Hampshire, via the rail trails, to Bellows Falls, VT, Brattleboro, VT and Winchendon, MA. Refer to monadnockrailtrails.org for further information.

Pathways for Keene

The City of Keene’s Bicycle Pedestrian Path Master Plan provides a vision for the creation of over 20 miles of pathways throughout the city by use of converted railbeds and other pathways including bike lanes.  Pathways for Keene is an all volunteer,  501(c)3 non-profit organization, which seeks grants and donations for the purposes previously noted.  Refer to www.pathwaysforkeene.org for further information.

Monadnock Conservancy

As a land trust for southwestern New Hampshire, our mission is to work with communities and landowners to conserve the natural resources, wild and working lands, rural character, and scenic beauty of the Monadnock region. We care for our conservation lands, and we engage people in ways that strengthen their communities and their connections to the land. Refer to www.monadnockconservancy.org for further information.