Cheney Railroad History Walk

Hikers will have an easy, but bumpy, walk along the former railroad, built in 1869 to connect the Cheney silk mills to the main rail line in the North End. At 2.5 miles, it was the longest private freight-and-passenger railroad in the United States. Participants will hike along the one-mile portion owned by the Manchester Land Conservation Trust and on to Center Springs Park, which will take about 1 3/4 hours round trip. Participants will hear about the history of the railroad and see maps and old pictures.

Call hike leader Susan Barlow at 860-643-9776 if questions. There are no restrooms along the route.

Participants should meet at the North End of Main Street in Manchester, behind Farr's Sporting Goods, 2 Main Street. Park at the nearby shopping plaza or the Eighth Utilities District office building (please do not park in Farr's parking lot).

A special favor will be given to children who attend the hike, sponsored by the Connecticut Forest & Park Association's family hike program.

This hike is open to all. It will be canceled in the case of extreme weather.