The Londonderry Depot.
The Upper Section of The West River Trail—Welcome!
Organized in 1992, the Friends of the West River Trail (FWRT) is a 501c3 non-profit organization dedicated to the establishment of a 36-mile scenic trail through the West River Valley – eventually linking Brattleboro, Dummerston, Newfane, Townshend, Jamaica and South Londonderry. FWRT’s mission is to:
- Develop and maintain a publicly accessible system of paths along the West River corridor for educational, recreational and alternative transportation purposes.
- Promote public awareness and enjoyment of the recreational path system and of the history, geology and biota of the West River valley.
- Coordinate local, state and federal interests in planning, funding, construction, management and use of the trail system.
FWRT Accomplishments
Since its inception, FWRT has raised more than $1,170,000 through grants and private contributions.
Completed projects to date include:
- Financing and construction of Cobb Brook Bridge
- Financing and construction of Ball Mountain Dam Switchbacks
- Financing and purchase of South Londonderry Depot and Renovation Plan
- Financing and construction of fully accessible trail – 1.7 miles from the south gate of the Winhall Brook Campground
- Financing and construction of trail access improvements at Townshend Dam Overlook.
- 2011 acquisition of 5.7 miles of old railroad bed by lower section sub-committee.
- Trail improvements in autumn 2011 by volunteer work crews
