Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
The Rockingham Recreational Trail spans approximately 21.5 miles through parts of southeastern New Hampshire and a small segment into Vermont. It follows the former Boston and Maine Railroad corridor, which once connected communities across Rockingham County. The trail passes through woodlands, open fields, wetlands, and historic small towns, providing users with diverse scenery and a peaceful outdoor experience close to urban centers. Ecologically, the trail corridor hosts mixed hardwood forests, vernal pools, and wetland habitats that support diverse wildlife including deer, fox, and a range of birds. Its flat, well-maintained crushed stone surface makes it accessible for hikers, mountain bikers, horseback riders, and during winter months, snowmobilers. The trail links parks, community centers, and conservation areas, emphasizing recreational connectivity. Historically, the corridor has roots in 19th-century railroading, and remnants such as old stone culverts and bridge abutments remain visible. Visitors enjoy scenic rural landscapes, peaceful woodlands, and opportunities for birdwatching and nature photography along the route. The trail also serves as a local transportation corridor for non-motorized users commuting between towns. Its user-friendly gradient and surface make it popular with families and casual riders. Various access points with parking are located in towns such as Londonderry, Derry, and Windham. Overall, the Rockingham Recreational Trail offers a well-rounded outdoor venue for year-round recreational activities and nature appreciation in southern New Hampshire.
