Nashua River Trailhead – Nashua River Rail Trail loop from Terrell Homestead Conservation Area
Nashua River Trailhead – Nashua River Rail Trail loop from Terrell Homestead Conservation Area
3.1
(5)
35
riders
Nashua River Trailhead – Nashua River Rail Trail loop from Terrell Homestead Conservation Area
01:18
27.6km
190m
Road cycling
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.
Last updated: March 28, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
52 m
Nashua River Trailhead
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
10.2 km
Shaw Conservation Area
Nature Reserve
26.9 km
Nashua River Rail Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
Tip by
27.6 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
13.6 km
12.1 km
1.86 km
< 100 m
Surfaces
15.7 km
11.8 km
< 100 m
< 100 m
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Elevation
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Weather
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Today
Tuesday 23 June
22°C
15°C
86 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 11.0 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 an easy, scenic road cycling experience, the Nashua River Trailhead – Nashua River Rail Trail loop from Terrell Homestead Conservation Area is an excellent choice. This easy 17.1-mile (27.6 km) road cycling loop, with a gentle 608 feet (185 metres) of elevation gain, can be completed in about 1 hour and 17 minutes, making it a perfect family-friendly outing. It's an accessible high-payoff win for cyclists of all skill levels, offering a tranquil ride through diverse landscapes.
What to expect on Nashua River Trailhead – Nashua River Rail Trail loop from Terrell Homestead Conservation Area
As you cycle this route, you'll experience a tranquil journey through varied landscapes. The Nashua River Rail Trail terrain is predominantly flat asphalt, built on a former railroad corridor, ensuring a smooth ride with only a gentle grade. You'll wind through wetlands, past ponds, and alongside the Nashua River, particularly through the forested sections of J. Harry Rich State Forest. The southern half opens up to agricultural fields, offering changing views. This comfortable and accessible ride is suitable for any fitness level, providing a relaxing experience for individuals and families alike, especially if you're looking for Nashua River natural features along the rail trail.
Planning your visit
Parking for this Nashua River Rail Trail road cycling loop is conveniently available at the Terrell Homestead Conservation Area, which abuts the rail trail. The trail is well-maintained and offers year-round enjoyment, though it's particularly pleasant for cycling in warmer months when the deciduous forests provide shade and spectacular fall foliage. Restrooms and bicycle repair stations are available at certain points along the trail, and you can find opportunities for refreshments in nearby towns like Groton Center or Pepperell.
Trail details
- Distance: 17.1 miles (27.6 km)
- Elevation gain: 608 feet (185 metres)
- Difficulty: easy
- Estimated time: 1 hours and 17 minutes
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