The Norwottuck Branch Rail Trail is an 11-mile paved combination bicycle/pedestrian rail trail running from Northampton, Massachusetts, through Hadley and Amherst, to Belchertown, Massachusetts. This is an easy hike that covers 10 miles, with an elevation gain of 246 feet. The trail is used by bicyclers, rollerbladers, and hikers. The trail is relatively flat and shaded. Scenery includes diverse terrain with agricultural and wet lands, river and mountain views, and Hadley Common. A key highlight is the Norwottuck Rail Trail Bridge over the Connecticut River. A beaver pond near the eastern end of the trail hosts a variety of birds including great blue herons and woodpeckers, as well as ducks and turtles. The trail surface is paved asphalt with railings at bridges, and the estimated grade is mostly gentle at 5% or less.