QUICK TRAIL FACTS
- Preserve Size: N/A
- Trail Mileage: 3 miles one way
- Pets: yes
- Difficulty: easy
- Sights: Irish Bog, Bunganock Pond
By Sam Shirley
Following the same old Rumford Falls and Buckfield Railroad grade as the Canton Rail Trail, this multi-use rail trail runs three miles north from a parking area next to the Hartford Town Office. The southernmost part of this trail is the most scenic; it passes through Irish Bog and past Bunganock Pond. The trail offers excellent views of the wetlands and is the perfect place for spotting all sorts of wildlife. There is also access to Bunkganock Pond via a hand-carry launch and a short side trail to the pond’s shore.
North of the pond and bog, the trail passes through the woods and by a small hunting camp. The rail trail portion ends where the old railroad grade enters the private Pine Shores development. From this point, a connector trail heads east to Church Street.
Directions: A large parking pull-off is located at the south end of the trail on Route 140. It is located a few hundred feet south of the Hartford Town Office and is marked with a small blue sign which reads “RR Bed Trl.”
