Highlight • Forest
Skug River Reservation
Mountain biking
5.0
(7)
Cycling
5.0
(1)
Road cycling
5.0
(1)
Tips
April 2, 2022
Mountain biking
January 26, 2024
Cycling
May 26, 2025
Road cycling
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Skug River Reservation
5.0
(1)
3
riders
6.26km
00:31
20m
20m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
30
riders
The Field Pond – Skug River Reservation loop offers a truly engaging mountain biking experience, winding through the diverse landscapes of Harold Parker State Forest. You'll navigate a mix of well-maintained singletracks, rooted sections, and even scenic boardwalks, particularly around the Skug River Reservation. The route provides picturesque views of Field Pond and Salem Pond, immersing you in mixed woodlands and past rocky outcroppings, making for a dynamic and visually appealing ride.
This moderate 9.3-mile (14.9 km) mountain bike loop, with a manageable 295 feet (90 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 1 hour and 14 minutes to complete. Access is convenient from Harold Parker State Forest, where you'll find parking available. Be mindful that beaver activity near the Skug River can occasionally lead to wet spots, so checking trail conditions before your ride is a good idea, especially after heavy rain.
What sets this trail apart is its blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue within the expansive Harold Parker State Forest. Beyond the varied terrain, you might spot massive stone walls from an old millrace near the Skug River or even a large glacial erratic. The extensive trail network here means you can easily combine this loop with other sections for a longer adventure, offering endless possibilities for exploration in this beautiful Massachusetts forest.
14
riders
22.1km
01:47
130m
130m
Explore the varied landscape of Harold Parker State Forest on this mountain biking loop around Field Pond. You'll encounter a mix of smooth singletrack and technical sections with roots and rocks, winding through dense woodlands and past scenic pond shores. The route offers glimpses of swamps, rocky outcroppings, and glacial erratics, providing a diverse and engaging ride for those who enjoy a challenge.
This moderate 12.9-mile (20.8 km) mountain biking trail involves 393 feet (120 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes around 1 hour and 42 minutes to complete. While the Peggy Keck Reservation generally restricts mountain biking, Harold Parker State Forest itself is a popular and permitted area for the sport. Plan your visit by checking local trail conditions, especially if you're looking for advanced mountain biking around Field Pond.
Harold Parker State Forest is known for its extensive network of trails, offering something for every mountain biker, from fire roads to technical singletrack. The forest's many ponds, including Field Pond, provide beautiful water views and a chance to explore various peninsulas. It's a fantastic destination for those seeking a comprehensive mountain biking experience near Andover, MA.
Details
Informations
Elevation 40 m
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Thursday 11 June
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Max wind speed: 13.0 km/h
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