The best MTB trails in Billerica State Forest
4.4
(37)
437
riders
16
rides
Mountain biking in Billerica State Forest offers a diverse and well-maintained trail system across its 370 acres, making it a popular local destination. The forest is characterized by pine forests, wetlands, and grasslands, with notable features like Gilson Hill, the second highest point in Billerica. Riders can find a mix of purpose-built singletrack trails, including flowy sections and technical challenges.
Best mountain bike trails in Billerica State Forest
- The most popular mountain bike trail is Northern and Gilson Hill Loops…
Last updated: June 29, 2026
4.0
(2)
28
riders
9.91km
00:50
80m
80m
The Northern and Gilson Hill Loops Trail offers a fantastic mountain biking experience through the tranquil pine forests and diverse terrain of Billerica State Forest. You'll navigate high-quality singletrack, enjoying…
3.0
(1)
19
riders
The Billerica State Forest – Grinding Stone on Gilson Hill loop offers a fantastic mountain biking experience through diverse woodland and serene pine forests. You'll navigate a mix of flowy…
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4.9
(19)
69
riders
8.00km
00:42
70m
70m
Easy 5.0-mile mountain biking loop through the scenic Russell Mill Pond and Town Forest, featuring wooded paths and a pump track.
5.0
(2)
63
riders
Hard mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
5.0
(2)
38
riders
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
An interesting part of the local history sits here on Gilson Hill. For hundreds of years the Native population of Massachusetts would come here to grind corn and other food staples. You can see the evidence across the face of the stone, where bits of rock were ground away along with the food.
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An inconspicuous boulder with round indentations. Supposed to be used by native Americans to grind corn 🌽.
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Russell Mill Pond Town Forest is a mountain bike area with a variety of trails, including some mellow green trails, and all trails can be ridden in both directions. It is a well-shaded area in the woods, and it is right next to Russell Mill Pond.
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Billerica State Forest, also known as Gibson Hill State Forest, is a state forest that is available for public use. This park is home to Gibson Hill, a 262-foot hill.
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Rangeway Town Forest is a small patch of forest owned by the city of Billerica. It consists mostly of pine trees and is open to public use.
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Single Track - had to walk the bike and use PAS to get up the hill. Find a better path next time
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Some challenging singletrack, but great fun.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect on the mountain bike trails in Billerica State Forest?
Billerica State Forest offers a diverse trail system with purpose-built singletrack. Riders can expect a mix of flowy sections and technical challenges, including drops, skinnys, rock faces, rock rollers, log rides, and hidden kickers. The trails wind through pine forests, wetlands, and grasslands, providing varied scenery.
Are there trails suitable for beginners or families in Billerica State Forest?
Yes, Billerica State Forest has options for different ability levels. While many trails offer technical features, there are also easier loops. For a relatively easy ride, consider the Northern and Gilson Hill Loops Trail, which is 6.2 miles long and combines two well-known sections of singletrack.
Where can I park when visiting Billerica State Forest for mountain biking?
While Billerica State Forest itself lacks designated parking lots, it is often accessed from the adjacent Russell Mill Town Forest in Chelmsford, which offers parking. Limited parking is also available on Rangeway Road.
What are some notable natural features or landmarks to look out for in Billerica State Forest?
The forest features diverse ecosystems with pine forests, wetlands, and grasslands. A prominent natural feature is Gilson Hill, the second-highest point in Billerica, which contributes to the varied topography of the trails. The Old Middlesex Turnpike, now a dirt road, also runs through the property, adding a historical element.
Are dogs allowed on the mountain bike trails in Billerica State Forest?
The region's trails are generally multi-use, accommodating various activities. While specific regulations for dogs on mountain bike trails are not detailed, it's common for state forests in Massachusetts to allow dogs on leash. Always ensure your dog is under control and follow any posted signage.
What do other mountain bikers say about the trails in Billerica State Forest?
The mountain biking routes in Billerica State Forest are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 40 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse and well-maintained singletrack, the mix of flowy sections and technical challenges, and the overall enjoyable riding experience.
Are there any advanced or challenging mountain bike trails in Billerica State Forest?
Yes, Billerica State Forest offers trails with technical challenges suitable for intermediate to advanced riders. Trails like 'Carbon Force' are noted for their serpentine nature and good rock drops. The 'Northern Loop' is also popular for its downhill/enduro features when ridden clockwise. For a longer, more challenging ride, consider the Pump Track – Billerica State Forest loop from Russell Mill Pond and Town Forest, which is rated as difficult.
When is the best time of year to go mountain biking in Billerica State Forest?
Billerica State Forest is suitable for mountain biking across multiple seasons. Its trails are also known to accommodate night riding and fat biking, suggesting year-round accessibility depending on conditions. Spring and fall generally offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, while winter fat biking is an option if conditions allow.
How many mountain bike trails are there in Billerica State Forest?
There are over 15 mountain bike routes available in Billerica State Forest on komoot, offering a variety of distances and difficulty levels for riders to explore.
Are there any loop trails for mountain biking in Billerica State Forest?
Yes, many of the popular mountain bike trails in Billerica State Forest are designed as loops. Examples include the Billerica State Forest – Grinding Stone on Gilson Hill loop from North Billerica, which explores the varied terrain around Gilson Hill, and the Green Birdhouse and Orange Goose Loop Trail, leading through diverse forest sections.
Can I combine mountain biking in Billerica State Forest with other outdoor activities?
Absolutely. In addition to mountain biking, the multi-use trails in Billerica State Forest are perfect for hiking, trail running, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. The diverse ecosystems also make it suitable for nature observation and birdwatching.
Most popular routes in Billerica State Forest
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