
Cumberland Valley Rail Trail
A scenic, paved 11-mile trail through rolling farmland, perfect for biking, walking, and enjoying the Cumberland Valley's natural beauty.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temps, fewer crowds

Cumberland Valley Rail Trail
Best Time
Pleasant temps, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic, paved 11-mile trail through rolling farmland, perfect for biking, walking, and enjoying the Cumberland Valley's natural beauty.
"A beautiful, well-maintained trail offering peaceful rides and walks through picturesque countryside."
🗺️ Download Trail Map
Grab a Cumberland Valley Rail Trail map beforehand; cell service can be spotty. Essential for navigation! :iphone:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Whether walking or biking, good footwear is a must for enjoying the Cumberland Valley Bike Trail. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Bridge Views
Various points along the trail
Cross charming old railroad bridges offering scenic vistas of the Cumberland Valley. A photographer's dream!

Newville's Charm
Newville access point
Explore the quaint town of Newville, a perfect stop for a break or a bite to eat on your journey.

Valley Vistas
Throughout the trail
Enjoy expansive views of rolling hills and farmland that define the beautiful Cumberland Valley.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trail Access & Parking
Trail Conditions & Etiquette
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🗺️ Download Trail Map
Grab a Cumberland Valley Rail Trail map beforehand; cell service can be spotty. Essential for navigation! :iphone:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Whether walking or biking, good footwear is a must for enjoying the Cumberland Valley Bike Trail. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring plenty of water, especially on warmer days. Limited services are available along the Newville Rails to Trails section. :droplet:
🚴 Bike Rentals Available
Check local outfitters for bike rentals if you don't have your own for the Cumberland Rail Trail. :bicycle:
Tips
from all over the internet
🗺️ Download Trail Map
Grab a Cumberland Valley Rail Trail map beforehand; cell service can be spotty. Essential for navigation! :iphone:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Whether walking or biking, good footwear is a must for enjoying the Cumberland Valley Bike Trail. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring plenty of water, especially on warmer days. Limited services are available along the Newville Rails to Trails section. :droplet:
🚴 Bike Rentals Available
Check local outfitters for bike rentals if you don't have your own for the Cumberland Rail Trail. :bicycle:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Cumberland Valley Rail Trail for its beautiful scenery, well-maintained paved surface, and accessibility for biking and walking. It's praised as a peaceful escape into nature with charming historic elements. Some note that amenities like restrooms and water fountains can be sparse, so planning ahead is recommended.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Cumberland Valley Rail Trail has multiple access points. Popular trailheads include those in Shippensburg, Newville, and Carlisle. Parking is available at most access points, but can fill up on busy days. Check a Cumberland Valley Rail Trail map for specific locations and directions.
Yes, parking is generally available at designated trailheads along the Cumberland County Rail Trail. It's advisable to arrive early, especially on weekends, as parking lots can become full.
Public transportation options directly to trailheads are limited. Most visitors drive to the Cumberland Valley Bike Trail. Consider carpooling if you're traveling with others.
The 'best' starting point depends on your desired length and destination. Newville offers a charming town stop, while Shippensburg provides a good central access. Consult a Cumberland Valley Rail Trail map to choose wisely.
No, the Cumberland Rail Trail is free to use. It's a public access path maintained for recreational use.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No tickets or passes are required to access and use the Cumberland Valley Rail Trail. It's a public recreational path.
The trail is generally open from dawn to dusk. There are no official 'closing' times, but it's recommended to finish your activity before dark for safety.
Yes, the Cumberland Valley Bike Trail is accessible year-round. However, conditions can vary with weather, especially in winter.
Dogs are welcome on the Cumberland Valley Rail Trail, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. Please clean up after your pet.
The Newville Rails to Trails section is part of the larger Cumberland Valley Rail Trail and is open for public use.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Cumberland Valley Rail Trail is primarily a paved surface, making it excellent for cycling, rollerblading, and walking. Some sections might have fine gravel.
The Cumberland Valley Rail Trail is approximately 11 miles long, connecting various communities and offering a substantial route for outdoor activities.
Restroom facilities are available at some of the larger access points and trailheads, particularly in towns like Newville. It's wise to use them when you see them.
You'll experience beautiful rolling farmland, wooded areas, and scenic views of the Cumberland Valley. It's a very picturesque route.
Yes, the paved surface of the Cumberland Valley Rail Trail makes it largely accessible for wheelchairs and other mobility devices.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, especially near the Newville and Shippensburg access points. You can find local diners, cafes, and restaurants for a meal or snack.
Absolutely! There are many scenic spots perfect for a picnic. Pack your own food and enjoy the natural beauty.
Water fountains are not consistently available along the entire Cumberland County Rail Trail. It's best to carry your own water supply.
Newville offers a few charming local eateries, from casual cafes to small restaurants, perfect for refueling after a ride or walk on the Newville Rails to Trails.
📸 📸 Photography
Look for the historic railroad bridges, scenic overlooks of the valley, and charming rural landscapes. Early morning and late afternoon light are ideal.
Definitely! The trail offers a variety of picturesque scenes, from open fields to wooded sections and charming bridges, making it a great subject for photographers.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset provide the most beautiful light for photography on the Cumberland Valley Rail Trail. Midday can be harsh.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Bring plenty of snacks and drinks, as services are limited. The trail's length can be adjusted to suit your family's stamina; you can turn around at any point. Look for the historic bridges as a fun landmark for kids to discover. A Cumberland Valley Rail Trail map can help you plan shorter, manageable segments for younger children.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Walkers
Consider downloading a Cumberland Valley Rail Trail map to your phone for offline use, as cell service can be intermittent. Bringing a portable charger is also a good idea. The trail's accessibility from various points allows for flexible start and end locations, perfect for a spontaneous walk.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Cumberland Valley Rail Trail by Bike
When cycling, be mindful of other users. The trail is popular with walkers, runners, and families, so maintaining a safe speed and yielding when necessary is crucial. The Cumberland Valley Bike Trail is known for its scenic beauty, with stretches that wind through picturesque farmland and offer lovely views of the surrounding valley. Keep an eye out for historic railroad bridges, which make for great photo opportunities and add a touch of history to your ride.
For those interested in extending their ride, keep an eye on news regarding the Cumberland Valley Rail Trail extension projects, which aim to further connect communities and enhance the trail system. Always carry water and snacks, as services can be sparse between access points, especially on the Newville Rails to Trails section.
Walking and Running on the Cumberland County Rail Trail
When planning your walk or run, consider the time of day. Early mornings offer cooler temperatures and a chance to see local wildlife, while late afternoons provide beautiful golden hour lighting for your activity. The Cumberland Rail Trail is dotted with benches and scenic spots, perfect for taking a break and enjoying the peaceful surroundings. Remember to bring water, especially during warmer months, as water fountains are not abundant.
For those looking for a specific route, a Cumberland Valley Rail Trail map is invaluable. It helps you identify different access points and plan out distances, whether you're aiming for a short stroll or a longer run. The trail's connection to towns like Newville means you can easily incorporate a stop for refreshments or a meal into your outing.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit