The Bobby Woodman Rail Trail, a hard-packed dirt and gravel pathway, begins off a quiet street at the southern end of Claremont and quickly dives under pleasant tree cover. After about a half mile, the rail-trail approaches Monadnock Park, a favorite of local athletes with baseball diamonds, football fields, and tennis courts.

Roughly a quarter mile later, the trail crosses the Sugar River on a former iron railroad trestle and, once on the opposite bank, continues through a busier and more open environment. Here, it parallels Washington Street, the city’s commercial corridor. At its end, the trail connects to the Sugar River Trail, a picturesque 10-mile route known for its covered bridges, railroad trestles, and abundance of wildlife.

The trail is named for the late Robert Woodman, who was active in city government, including participation on the Conservation Commission.

Parking and Trail Access

On its western end, a trailhead with a gravel parking lot is available on W. Pleasant Street. Midway, parking is available in Monadnock Park (190 Broad Street). On its eastern end, another trailhead with parking is available off Washington Street, near the Home Depot.