Old Narrow Gauge Rail Trail, Randolph

This was a surprisingly sweet walk, about 1.8 miles one way, from Water Street to Birmingham Road. Someone has taken the time to construct bridges over the little streams, and to add funny trail signs. I was expecting a rather straightforward (literally) and somewhat dull walk, but the trail meandered as it followed a stream. While trees have grown up on the old bed, it’s still possible to see you’re walking along an old train route. The path follows part of the section of the 1890-1929 Kennebec Central Railroad between Togus and Randolph. The train used to transport coal and other goods the five miles to the former Veterans Home in Togus. More info on Maine Trail Finder.

Directions: You can pick up the trail next to the IGA parking lot in Randolph, or you can park on the side of Windsor Street (Route 226). The trail cuts through the woods and comes out on a snowmobile track. Turn right at the end, onto the snowmobile track, and you’ll come to Birmingham Road.