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Keystone Arch Bridges Trail

Details unconfirmedPreserve · Chester, MA
Right now

A 2.5-mile trail on Chester's north edge, following an abandoned 1841 rail bed to a cluster of stone arch railroad bridges, the first built in America. The largest structures drop 45 to 70 feet, with side trails down to the river for a full view.

What to expect

Parking
Free lot free · unconfirmed
Trails
2.5 miles one-way (about 5 miles round trip); cleared path and abandoned railroad bed, moderate and increasingly steep toward the far bridges.
Accessibility
Not accessible; steep grades, an unbridged river crossing area, and an abandoned rail bed with no paved or graded surface.
Managed by
Friends of the Keystone Arches, Inc. Website

Common questions

How long is the Keystone Arch Bridges hike?
The cleared trail runs 2.5 miles one way to the far bridges, so plan on about 5 miles round trip if you go the whole way; several bridges are visible well before the end.
Where do I park at Keystone Arch Bridges Trail?
Free lot (free).
Is Keystone Arch Bridges Trail wheelchair accessible?
Not accessible; steep grades, an unbridged river crossing area, and an abandoned rail bed with no paved or graded surface.
What rules should I know at Keystone Arch Bridges Trail?
Entering the active CSX rail line beside the trail is illegal and dangerous. The largest bridges drop 45 to 70 feet; observing them fully means descending side trails to river level.

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BetaSome details here are unconfirmed (hours). Details are sourced from public agency data and can change through the season. Confirm locally before you go. Sourced 2026-08-07. Official source. Updated 2026-09-13.