The downtown extension of the Columbia Greenway Rail Trail, opened in September 2023, running on top of an old railway embankment over several downtown streets, including a green steel truss bridge above Main Street, and ending at Westfield's riverfront esplanade on the Westfield River. It is elevated in a way few urban rail trails in the country are, so first-time visitors should expect city views and street crossings rather than woods.
What to expect
Parking
Free lot free for 3 hours
Trails
Paved asphalt, flat, easy difficulty. This downtown extension opened September 7, 2023, connecting the Main Street Bridge to the Westfield River esplanade;…
Dogs
Dogs are allowed on leash, consistent with other City of Westfield park property.
Hours
No trail-specific gate hours found; City of Westfield parks are generally posted dawn to dusk, unconfirmed for this trail.
Accessibility
Paved and flat along the elevated embankment; the segment carries the trail over multiple downtown streets via bridges, so step-free but with some approach ramps rather than at-grade crossings. ADA parking not confirmed.
Managed by
City of Westfield Parks and Recreation Department, with trail stewardship and advocacy by Friends of the Columbia Greenway Rail Trail
(413) 572-6263 · WebsiteGetting in
Parking
Free lot
Costfree for 3 hours
Common questions
Is Columbia Greenway Rail Trail (Phase II) open today?
Columbia Greenway Rail Trail (Phase II) is a public park in Westfield, MA. Posted hours: No trail-specific gate hours found; City of Westfield parks are generally posted dawn to dusk, unconfirmed for this trail..
When did the downtown section of the trail open?
The extension from the Main Street Bridge to the Westfield River esplanade opened with a ribbon-cutting on September 7, 2023.
Is there parking near the downtown end of the trail?
The closest formal option is the Depot Square municipal lot off Pochassic Street or North Elm Street, which is free for the first three hours.
Can I bike from downtown to Connecticut on this trail?
Yes, this downtown segment connects south through the rest of the Columbia Greenway to the Southwick Rail Trail and toward Connecticut's Farmington Canal Heritage Trail.
Where do I park at Columbia Greenway Rail Trail (Phase II)?
Free lot (free for 3 hours).
Is there an entry fee at Columbia Greenway Rail Trail (Phase II)?
No, entry is free.
Can I bring my dog to Columbia Greenway Rail Trail (Phase II)?
Dogs are allowed on leash, consistent with other City of Westfield park property.
Is Columbia Greenway Rail Trail (Phase II) wheelchair accessible?
Paved and flat along the elevated embankment; the segment carries the trail over multiple downtown streets via bridges, so step-free but with some approach ramps rather than at-grade crossings. ADA parking not confirmed.
What rules should I know at Columbia Greenway Rail Trail (Phase II)?
The trail crosses several downtown streets via bridges and ramps rather than at street grade in most spots, but riders and walkers should still watch for vehicle traffic at the street-level approaches. Alcohol is prohibited on City of Westfield park and school property, which by city policy…