Championing the Salem Rail Trail’s Future
Friends of the Salem Rail Trail is a 501c3 nonprofit providing advocacy and maintenance of the 5.2 mile rail trail that traverses through the Town of Salem New Hampshire.
The section of trail in Salem is the most southerly section of Granite State Trail system extending north to Lebanon NH. Traveling south from the Salem-Windham town line for approximately 2.4 miles, a cyclist or pedestrian can expect to experience a paved surface that is level with approved marked street crossings into the Salem Depot. Continuing south from Main Street in Salem to Methuen Ma, expect mostly gravel surfaces with a couple paved sections.
Our goal is to unite and empower a community that will champion the full completion of a safe, continuous pathway through Salem. By rallying public and private support, we can secure the funding needed to create a fully paved route that strengthens regional connectivity and links Salem to Methuen, MA, and Windham, NH.



Connecting Communities Through the Salem Rail Trail
Explore how Friends of the Salem Rail Trail champions trail advocacy and maintenance across Salem and beyond.

Salem Trailhead
Starting point featuring access to both paved and gravel trail sections for all users.

Methuen Gateway
A vital link offering continuous trail access into Massachusetts, enhancing regional connectivity.

Windham Junction
Key access spot where the trail connects Salem with Windham, supporting diverse trail users.
Advocating for a Safer, Scenic Rail Trail
Explore our trail’s impact and milestones that shape our community’s outdoor experience.
5.2
Trail Length (miles)
Spanning 5.2 miles, our trail offers both paved and gravel surfaces for diverse users.
2
Funding Secured (Million $)
Secured over $2 million to enhance trail paving and accessibility for all.
3
Community Events
Hosted 3 annual events promoting outdoor activity and trail stewardship.
10
Volunteer Hours (Thousands)
Dedicated volunteers contributed 10,000 hours maintaining and improving the trail.

