Vestal Rail Trail Home to Walkers and Wildlife

The Vestal Rail Trail is one of the area's most popular recreational areas.  The over 3.5 miles of paved walkway provides plenty of space for walkers, runners, bicyclists, skateboarders and pet lovers.  Every week thousands use the trail on their own or by taking part in numerous events organized at or near the Vestal Coal House near Stage Road which is at the western part of  Rail Trail East.  This segment of the Rail Trail is listed as 2.1 miles from the Coal House to The Shoppes between North Main and African Road.

Rail Trail West runs a listed 1.75 miles and runs from near Vestal Avenue to Castle Gardens Road.  The total from one end of the Rail Trail to the other is about 3.85 miles.

The Coal House is the hub of activity on the Rail Trail.  Races, charity walks, musical entertainment and other activities all take place there.  In addition the Coal House Cafe offers food and refreshing non-alcoholic beverages perfect for the whole family.

Along with people and pets you can see plenty of wildlife along the Vestal Rail Trail.  During a recent visit we spotted several ground hogs and turtles as you can see from the accompanying photos.