Nashua River Rail Trail – Nashua River Rail Trail loop from Ward 1

Nashua River Rail Trail – Nashua River Rail Trail loop from Ward 1

Moderate

4.6

(9236)

11,445

riders

Nashua River Rail Trail – Nashua River Rail Trail loop from Ward 1

02:42

56.9km

290m

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: August 23, 2026

Tips

Includes a segment in which cycling is not permitted

After 5.92 km for 124 m

Waypoints

Start point

Parking

Get Directions

10.1 km

Nashua River Trailhead

Highlight • Trail

From here all the way south to Ayer, this 12.5 miles trail follows the course of the Nashua River through J. Harry State Forest. Calm and tree-dimmed light make the way a real treat.

Tip by

11.4 km

Nashua River Rail Trail

Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway

The Nashua river rail trail is a paved green way over an old rail way where one can have a pleasant bicycle ride while enjoying the quiet surroundings.

Tip by

17.2 km

Pepperell Covered Bridge

Highlight • Bridge

Classic New England.

Tip by

17.6 km

Nashua River Rail Trail

Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway

There is a nice, new, and large parking lot at the Ayer end. It crosses a few busy roads, so be aware of this if you bring young kids.

Tip by

27.0 km

Groton School Pond

Lake

27.9 km

Nashua River Rail Trail

Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway

This paved rail trail winds through a wealth of green space and water bodies. Watch out for unexpected wildlife sightings!

Tip by

37.4 km

Nashua River Rail Trail

Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway

The Nashua River Rail Trail is a paved trail that was constructed on an old railbed. It is completely traffic free, so it is a great place for a relaxed walk.

Tip by

43.2 km

Runnells Bridge Over Nashua River

Highlight • Bridge

As we cruise through the NH-111 road, we find our tires rolling over the wide Nashua river, formed in Massachusetts to irrigate the Merrimack river in Hudson.

Tip by

56.9 km

End point

Parking

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types