Northern Rail Trail

The trail primarily features an unpaved surface, consisting of hard-packed dirt, crushed stone, cinder, and some areas with coarse gravel. You might also encounter wet sections. While road bikes with tires 28mm or larger can be used, hybrid, cross, gravel, and mountain bikes are best suited for the varied surface. It's generally flat with easy grades, following river valleys.

The trail spans between Lebanon and Boscawen, New Hampshire, with many access points along its nearly 60-mile length. You'll find various parking areas at different trailheads. Some locations also offer amenities like restrooms and information kiosks.

You'll experience a diverse landscape of rolling fields, forests, and New England towns. Highlights include historic covered bridges, sustainable farms, orchards, and views of sparkling lakes and streams. The trail follows the Mascoma River and passes alongside Mascoma Lake and Goose Pond. You can also spot historical artifacts from the old railroad, such as granite stonework and mileage markers, and even an Abandoned Mill in Enfield.

Yes, the trail is popular for walking and running, and dogs are generally welcome. However, please ensure your dog is kept on a leash and that you clean up after them to maintain the trail's cleanliness for all users.

The trail is enjoyable throughout the warmer months, often described as a 'green tunnel' due to dense tree cover, offering a tranquil experience. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful foliage. While it's also used for winter activities like cross-country skiing and snowmobiling, cycling conditions can be challenging due to snow and ice.

No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to access and use the Northern Rail Trail for cycling or other recreational activities. It's a public resource managed for recreational use.

Yes, the route primarily follows the Northern Rail Trail itself, which is New Hampshire's longest rail trail. It also briefly passes through sections of the Audubon Trail and Johnston Drive Park.

You'll find various amenities along the trail, including restrooms, porta-potties, information kiosks, and welcome centers. In nearby towns, there are restaurants, convenience stores, and even some locations offering bike repair stations and e-bike battery charging.

Yes, the trail is generally considered easy to moderate. Its nearly flat profile with gentle grades makes it accessible for touring cyclists of various skill levels. The unpaved surface means it's not as smooth as a paved trail, but it's manageable for beginners on appropriate bikes (hybrid, cross, gravel, or mountain bikes).

Given the unpaved surface, ensure you have a suitable bike with tires 28mm or larger. Pack plenty of water, snacks, a basic bike repair kit, and appropriate clothing for the weather. Sunscreen and insect repellent are also recommended, especially during warmer months.

Absolutely. While the trail is nearly 60 miles long, its numerous access points allow you to plan shorter out-and-back rides or point-to-point sections. This flexibility makes it easy to tailor your cycling experience to your desired distance and time.