Nashua River Rail Trail – Groton School Pond loop from Groton
Nashua River Rail Trail – Groton School Pond loop from Groton
3.5
(30)
69
riders
Nashua River Rail Trail – Groton School Pond loop from Groton
02:03
44.5km
340m
Road cycling
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.
Last updated: April 24, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
56 m
Nashua River Rail Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
Tip by
1.83 km
Groton School Pond
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
5.64 km
Squannacook River Mill and Dam
Highlight • Monument
Tip by
30.9 km
Hickory Hills Lake
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
39.4 km
Rumbo Island
Nature Reserve
44.5 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
24.7 km
16.5 km
2.49 km
790 m
Surfaces
30.7 km
13.7 km
< 100 m
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Elevation
Highest point (130 m)
Lowest point (60 m)
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Weather
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Today
Thursday 9 July
31°C
18°C
48 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 14.0 km/h
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for a rewarding road cycling route that blends smooth rail trail with scenic country roads, the Nashua River Rail Trail – Groton School Pond loop from Groton is definitely worth your time. This moderate 27.6-mile (44.5 km) ride features 1100 feet (335 metres) of elevation gain, and you can expect to complete it in about 2 hours and 3 minutes. It's an excellent choice for cyclists seeking a varied New England experience without overly strenuous climbs, making it one of the most popular cycling trails in Groton, MA.
What to expect on Nashua River Rail Trail – Groton School Pond loop from Groton
This route offers a delightful journey through diverse New England landscapes. You'll start on the paved Nashua River Rail Trail, enjoying its largely flat and smooth surface as it winds through shaded deciduous forests and alongside wetlands. The scenery shifts as you transition to local roads, where you'll encounter open agricultural fields and picturesque views of the Nashua River. A highlight is the tranquil Groton School Pond, a perfect spot to pause and observe aquatic wildlife like swans and herons. While the rail trail is easy going, the local road sections introduce gentle climbs, contributing to the route's moderate difficulty, making it suitable for road cyclists comfortable with some varied terrain.
Planning your visit
The Nashua River Rail Trail is easily accessible, with parking available at various points, including in Groton. If you're considering public transport, the Ayer trailhead is conveniently located near an MBTA commuter rail station, which allows bicycles on most trains. The trail is enjoyable in most seasons, but the fall offers spectacular autumn foliage. Always carry enough water, especially on warmer days, and be aware that while the rail trail is smooth, some sections may have minor bumps.
Trail details
- Distance: 27.6 miles (44.5 km)
- Elevation gain: 1100 feet (335 metres)
- Difficulty: moderate
- Estimated time: 2 hours and 3 minutes
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