From Trail to Railway Through the Appalachians by Albert Perry Brigham is a fascinating historical exploration of the transformation of the Appalachian region from a rugged frontier to a pivotal part of America’s transportation network. In this meticulously researched work, Brigham chronicles the development of trails and roads in the Appalachian Mountains and their evolution into vital railway routes. The book provides a comprehensive account of the challenges faced by early pioneers and engineers in overcoming the natural barriers of the region, highlighting the ingenuity and perseverance required to connect remote areas with broader economic and social networks. Brigham’s narrative offers insights into the impact of this transportation revolution on the Appalachian communities, detailing how the introduction of railways facilitated economic growth, cultural exchange, and regional development. The book also examines the broader implications of this transformation for American expansion and industrialization. From Trail to Railway Through the Appalachians is enriched with historical anecdotes, detailed maps, and vivid descriptions of the Appalachian landscape. Brigham’s engaging prose and thorough analysis make this work an essential read for anyone interested in American history, transportation development, and the significant role of the Appalachian region in shaping the nation’s infrastructure. For readers intrigued by the intersection of geography, technology, and historical progress, From Trail to Railway Through the Appalachians provides a compelling and informative look at how trails and railways reshaped a vital part of American history.

With over 15,000 copies sold, Cycling the Kettle Valley has proven to be a remarkable resource for anyone interested in the stunning abandoned railbed located in the southern interior of British Columbia. One of the premier rail trails in North America, it contains spectacular sections through impressive canyons requiring tunnels and trestles to carry the railbed through rock ridges and across mountain streams. Growing public interest in conservation of the railbed and its structures, along with government support, has resulted in many improvements in both access and safety. The Kettle Valley Railway and its many connectors offer the cyclist everything from easy day-riding to multi-day adventures through the magnificent scenery of southern British Columbia between Midway and Hope. This world-renowned guidebook includes detailed maps, safety tips, historic information, a listing of accommodations and a kilometre by kilometre guide to each of the Kettle Valley Railway subdivisions.

Across the country, more than 1,600 unused railroad corridors have been converted to level, public, multiuse trails, where people can enjoy a fitness run, a leisurely bike ride, or a stroll with the family. In this newest addition to the popular series, the Rails-to-Trails Conservancy presents the Northeast's finest rail-trails. Rail-Trails Northeast covers one hundred of New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania's rail-trails. With a rich industrial and passenger rail history, the Northeast is one of the densest rail-trail regions in the country. Rural, suburban, or urban, rail-trails serve as the backbone of an impressive trail system. This two-color book includes succinct descriptions of each trail from start to finish, plus at-a-glance summary information indicating permitted uses, surface type, length, and directions to trailheads for each trail. Every trip has a detailed map that includes start and end points, trailhead, parking, restroom facilities, and other amenities.

All across the country, unused railroad corridors have been converted to public multiuse trails. In 2007, Rails-to-Trails Conservancy began recognizing exemplary rail-trails through its Rail-Trail Hall of Fame, based on scenic value, value of use, amenities, historical significance, excellence in management and maintenance, community connections, and geographic distribution. These Hall of Fame rail-trails are found in 28 states and in nearly every environment. In this book, you'll find detailed maps for every rail-trail, plus driving directions to trail-heads, icons indicating the activities each trail can accommodate, succinct descriptions written by rail-trail experts, and a look at the fascinating railroad history behind each trail. Rails-to-Trails Conservancy serves as the national voice for more than 160,000 members and supporters, more than 22,000 miles of open rail-trail across the country, and more than 8,000 miles of potential trails waiting to be built--with a goal of ensuring a better future for America made possible by trails and the connections they inspire.