1.
Nashua River Trailhead – Pepperell Covered Bridge loop from Brookline
50.4km
02:21
370m
370m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
View route
The best road cycling routes in Townsend State Forest
By Fede from komoot
·
Updated June 1, 2026
If you've ever tried to plan road cycling in Townsend State Forest, you know how quickly the options can feel overwhelming. It's tough to tell which routes are genuinely worth your time and effort, and which are just filler. We get it – you want to hit the road knowing you're on a route that delivers.
That's where we come in. Our komoot community has ridden, mapped, and reviewed these routes, so this guide isn't just a list; it's a curated shortlist of the best road bike trails near Townsend State Forest. We've done the legwork to save you the guesswork, pointing you straight to the rides that truly shine.
Road cycling in Townsend State Forest and its surrounding areas offers a delightful mix of scenic country roads and varied topography. While the forest itself is more for multi-use trails, the adjacent towns and the Squannacook River Rail Trail provide excellent paved bike paths and low-traffic routes. Expect rolling hills that offer both enjoyable descents and moderate climbs, winding through mixed forests and past tranquil ponds. The routes here range from easy, family-friendly road bike routes to more moderate challenges, ensuring there's something for every cyclist.
If you only do one, we'd start with the popular Nashua River Trailhead – Pepperell Covered Bridge loop from Brookline. At 31.3 miles (50.4 km), it’s a fantastic moderate ride that showcases the region's diverse scenery. For another top favorite that blends rail trail segments with scenic ponds, check out the Groton School Pond – Nashua River Rail Trail loop from Meredith Bissell Property, a moderate 27.6 miles (44.4 km) route. Ready to explore? Dive into these routes and more with komoot.
If you only do 3 of these routes
Compare these routes at a glance
Trail | Distance | Elevation | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nashua River Trailhead – Pepperell Covered Bridge loop from Brookline | 50.4 km | 370 m | Moderate |
| Groton School Pond – Nashua River Rail Trail loop from Meredith Bissell Property | 44.4 km | 250 m | Moderate |
| Nashua River Rail Trail – Groton School Pond loop from Meredith Bissell Property | 40.4 km | 230 m | Easy |
| Silver Lake Beach loop from Mount Lebanon | 61.9 km | 420 m | Moderate |
| Quiet country road loop from Hollis | 38.3 km | 360 m | Moderate |
2.
Groton School Pond – Nashua River Rail Trail loop from Meredith Bissell Property
44.4km
02:01
250m
250m
The Groton School Pond – Nashua River Rail Trail loop offers a pleasant road cycling experience, primarily featuring the smooth, flat terrain of the Nashua River Rail Trail. You'll pedal through varied scenery, including peaceful wooded areas, tranquil wetlands, and open fields, with glimpses of the Nashua River along the way. This route is a good choice for cyclists who enjoy a mix of dedicated paths and local roads, providing a consistent and enjoyable ride.
This moderate 27.6-mile (44.4 km) loop, with 821 feet (250 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 2 hours to complete. While the Nashua River Rail Trail itself is known for its easy, paved surface, the overall moderate rating for the full loop suggests some sections may offer gentle climbs or more varied road conditions. It's a solid option for those looking for a substantial ride without extreme challenges.
The Nashua River Rail Trail is generally accessible year-round, making this a flexible route for different seasons. While specific parking details for the Meredith Bissell Property starting point are not widely documented, rail trails often have convenient access points. Consider cycling in the spring or fall for comfortable temperatures and the best natural scenery, especially if you're looking for family-friendly cycling in Groton MA.
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3.
Nashua River Rail Trail – Groton School Pond loop from Meredith Bissell Property
40.4km
01:56
230m
230m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
View route
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4.
Silver Lake Beach loop from Mount Lebanon
61.9km
02:45
420m
420m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
View route
5.
Quiet country road loop from Hollis
38.3km
02:04
360m
360m
This 23.8-mile (38.3 km) road cycling loop from Hollis offers a true taste of New England's rolling countryside, with 1185 feet (361 metres) of elevation gain that will keep your legs working. You'll navigate a moderate route through scenic backroads, experiencing the classic 'up and down' terrain that makes cycling in this region so engaging. Expect a journey through diverse nature, with glimpses of the kind of views you'd find near Townsend State Forest, making the estimated 2 hours and 3 minutes fly by.
For those planning to tackle this loop, parking is typically available in the Hollis area, often near multi-use trailheads or in town. The best seasons for road cycling here are spring, summer, and fall, when the weather is cooperative and the New England scenery is at its peak. Always ensure you have enough water and supplies, as services can be sparse once you're out on the country roads.
Hollis is well-known for its extensive network of multi-use trails and road cycling routes, making it a hub for outdoor enthusiasts. This particular loop captures the essence of the 'quiet country road' experience, offering a chance to explore the region's natural beauty away from busier thoroughfares. It's a fantastic way to experience the varied terrain and charming landscapes that define Hollis road cycling.
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Tips from the Community
Jay Powell
October 12, 2025, Pepperell Covered Bridge
Classic New England covered bridge, restored and still in use. Small park on the east side, multiple good routes from the bridge west through Massachusetts and New Hampshire.
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mtm05005
June 11, 2025, Nashua River Rail Trail
The Nashua River Rail Trail is a paved trail that was constructed on an old railbed. It is completely traffic free, so it is a great place for a relaxed walk.
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mtm05005
June 11, 2025, Southwest Trails Trailhead
This is the northern terminus of the Nashua River Trail. It runs from this point all the way to Ayer, Massachusetts. The trail passes through J. Harry State Forest and is tree lined for a majority of its trajectory.
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ScottKane
May 13, 2025, Pepperell Covered Bridge
There are only a handful of covered bridges in the state. This is the furthest east one
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Tyler Sanders
February 29, 2024, Squannacook River Mill and Dam
The Squannacook River, a 16.4-mile-long tributary of the Nashua River, meanders through heavily wooded areas, providing a peaceful ride. There are few points along the way where you can pause to admire the scenic view of the river, such as this one.
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Lisa
January 29, 2024, Nashua River Rail Trail
This paved rail trail winds through a wealth of green space and water bodies. Watch out for unexpected wildlife sightings!
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Lisa
January 29, 2024, Knowles Siding Conservation Area
This stretch of conservation land abuts the Nashua River Rail Trail. You're free to explore the land if you want to hop off your bike, but it's kept in such a natural state that you won't even find maintained trails on it.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect on road cycling routes in Townsend State Forest?
Road cycling routes in Townsend State Forest feature a diverse landscape of rolling hills, mixed hardwood and conifer forests, and tranquil small ponds. While some routes are mostly paved, others may include mixed surfaces, so cyclists should be prepared for varying conditions.
How many road cycling routes are available in Townsend State Forest?
There are 22 dedicated road cycling routes in Townsend State Forest, offering a variety of options for different preferences and skill levels.
Are there routes suitable for beginners or less experienced road cyclists?
Yes, Townsend State Forest offers 10 easy-rated road cycling routes. An example is the Pepperell Covered Bridge – Nashua River Trailhead loop from Pepperell, which is 17.3 km long and typically takes under an hour to complete.
What are some of the longer road cycling routes in the area?
For a more substantial ride, consider the Pepperell Covered Bridge loop from South Pepperell, which spans 62.5 km and is rated moderate. Another option is the Nashua River Trailhead – Pepperell Covered Bridge loop from Brookline, covering 50.4 km.
What natural features or landmarks might I see while cycling in Townsend State Forest?
Cyclists can enjoy the scenic environment of rolling hills, diverse forests, and numerous small ponds. Notable features include Old Town Hall Pond, which is known for fishing and waterfowl. The routes also traverse areas near the Nashua River Rail Trail and the Pepperell Covered Bridge.
What do other cyclists say about road cycling in Townsend State Forest?
The road cycling routes in Townsend State Forest are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 5.0 stars. Cyclists often appreciate the tranquil natural setting and the varied terrain.
Are there any family-friendly road cycling options in Townsend State Forest?
While specific 'family-friendly' designations aren't provided, the forest offers 10 easy-rated routes that could be suitable for families, depending on their experience. These routes generally have less elevation gain and shorter distances.
Can I expect to see wildlife while road cycling in the forest?
Yes, the diverse woodlands and wetlands of Townsend State Forest provide habitat for various wildlife, including white-tailed deer, wild turkey, and numerous songbirds. Keep an eye out, especially in quieter sections of the routes.
What is the best time of year for road cycling in Townsend State Forest?
The region's mixed hardwood and conifer forests suggest beautiful scenery during spring, summer, and especially autumn when foliage changes. Cyclists should consider seasonal weather conditions, as some routes may include unpaved sections that could be affected by rain or snow.
Are there any routes that incorporate rail trails?
Yes, several routes utilize or run alongside the Nashua River Rail Trail. For example, the Groton School Pond – Nashua River Rail Trail loop from Meredith Bissell Property specifically guides cyclists through areas featuring rail trail segments.
What is the typical elevation gain on road cycling routes in Townsend State Forest?
The routes in Townsend State Forest feature rolling hills, so you can expect moderate elevation changes. For instance, a route like the Nashua River Trailhead – Pepperell Covered Bridge loop from Brookline has an elevation gain of approximately 371 meters.
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