Rensselaerwyck Rail Trail

The future site for the Van Rensselaer Rail Trail, which was the old Albany-Hudson Electric Trolley line that connects the Port of Albany to Hudson, NY.

This is the missing link that connects the newly developed Heldeberg-Hudson Rail Trail & Harlem Valley Rail Trail. The trail will be a paved bike & pedestrian path that runs parallel to Columbia Turnpike. The National Grid Power lines which incorporate right of way possibilities for alternative transportation purposes.

We are now looking for new trail ambassadors for the first segment connecting Hampton Manor Lake to Nassau Lake. Please e-mail GreenbushParks@gmail.com to get involved or show support.

This is an immense project that requires the help, input and approval of many people from all parts of the community and state. We will continue developing signs, interpretive material on the trail, as well as amenities such as benches. The funding sources are endless including grant options, crowd fund campaigns, private donors and volunteer services.


Eventually this trail will make the city of Albany & Troy both more accessible to Southern Rensselaer County via enhanced trail systems. Albany County is moving forward with plans for the Heldeberg-Hudson Trail segment from Albany to Delmar. Once completed this segment will allow bicycles and other non-motorized travelling. This is the most scenic section of the trail as well as one of the most difficult to complete. It contains an old tressel railroad bridge across the Normans Kill. And you can help - whether through volunteering, donating, or just spreading the word throughout our communities about the benefits of the rail trail.

Please also check out the progress of the successful Harlem Valley Rail Trail, connecting our community to downtown Hudson, NY. http://hvrt.org/

There are many significant benefits to the community including culture, economic improvement, and walkability. This is the best move towards a cleaner, greener, atmosphere and town. This is will give kids a family a new reason to get outside and enjoy the fresh air. This path will have many possibilities including town-wide hop scotch, sidewalk chalk murals, 5k charity races, historic reenactment and other art installations along the way.

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