The Norwottock Bicycle Trail was constructed as part of a growing nationwide initiative to turn old, unused rail tracks into safe, recreational trails for cyclists and pedestrians. Stretching from the South end of Amherst to Elwell State Park in Northampton, the trail offers a variety of sights along its eight mile length: from wetlands to farmland to the center of Hadley and the Connecticut River. The trail is easily accessible from a number of streets in the Amherst area, including South East Street and South Pleasant Street, and parking is provided at either end.
The Norwottock Trail is officially designated as a State Park, and is frequently patrolled by park rangers on mountain bikes. All rules governing state parks apply to the trail. In addition, horses and motorized vehicles are not permitted on the trail, except for maintenance purposes.
Rules and Regulations
(a) No motorized vehicles or horses will be allowed on the trail, with the exception of emergency and maintenance vehicles. Motorized wheelchairs are allowed.
(b) No trespassing on private property.
(c) The trail will be closed between 10 pm and 5 am. Bicycle commuters using the trail when it is closed do so at their own risk.
(d) All users must keep to the right. Blocking the trail is prohibited.
(e) When passing, users must alert others with an audible signal -- bell, horn, or voice.
(f) After dusk, all users must have proper illumination and reflectors.
(g) All trail users must stop at road crossings.
(h) Dogs must be on short leashes. Owners must remove droppings.
(i) The following activities are prohibited on the rail trail: littering, hunting, camping, open fires, possession and/or consumption of alchoholic beverages, loitering, fishing from bridges, jumping from bridges, swimming to or from bridges and throwing, dropping or launching anything from bridges.
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Last Update: May 1, 1995