4.6
(2173)
5,450
riders
Northern Rail Trail
03:17
41.9km
370m
Cycling
The Northern Rail Trail in New Hampshire offers a delightful touring cycling experience, tracing a former railway line through a varied landscape. You'll pedal past farmlands, alongside the tranquil Mascoma Lake, and over historic covered bridges, immersing yourself in classic New England charm. The trail's surface is mostly hard-packed dirt and crushed stone, providing a smooth ride, though some sections might feature coarser gravel or be wet after rain. It's a moderate 26.0-mile (41.9 km) route, with 1227 feet (374 metres) of elevation gain, making it accessible for many cyclists.
Planning your ride on the Northern Rail Trail is straightforward, with amenities available in towns like Enfield and Danbury, where the Country Store is a popular stop. While the trail is open year-round, the fall foliage season offers particularly spectacular views. Given its length and some remote sections, it's wise to carry enough water and basic supplies. Parking and access points are conveniently located along the route, making it easy to start your adventure.
This trail holds significant historical value, following a section of the Boston & Maine's abandoned railway, once part of a Boston-to-Montreal service. Interpretive signs along the way, along with visible granite stonework and
Last updated: June 9, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
357 m
Hanover
Highlight • Settlement
Tip by
17.0 km
Mascoma Lake
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
20.9 km
Abandoned Mill in Enfield
Highlight • Monument
Tip by
41.9 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
17.9 km
8.53 km
6.40 km
6.13 km
2.53 km
399 m
Surfaces
20.5 km
16.2 km
4.96 km
173 m
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Elevation
Highest point (250 m)
Lowest point (150 m)
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Weather
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Today
Monday 6 July
27°C
16°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 14.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I park to access the Northern Rail Trail?
The trail features numerous well-marked parking areas and access points along its length. You'll find information kiosks at many of these points to help you get started.
Is the Northern Rail Trail dog-friendly?
Yes, the trail is generally dog-friendly. However, it's important to keep your dog on a leash at all times and to clean up after them to ensure a pleasant experience for all users.
What is the best time of year to cycle this trail?
The trail is enjoyable year-round, but spring and fall offer particularly scenic rides with comfortable temperatures and vibrant foliage. Summer is great for warmer weather, while winter allows for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling on the packed snow.
Do I need a permit or pay a fee to use the Northern Rail Trail?
No, there are no fees to use the Northern Rail Trail. Access is completely free for all users.
What is the surface like on the Northern Rail Trail?
The surface varies along its nearly 60-mile length. You'll encounter a mix of hard-packed stone dust, crushed gravel, coarse gravel, packed dirt, and cinder. While much of it is smooth, some sections, particularly from Grafton to Lebanon, can have sandy spots and exposed railroad ties, making wider tires advisable.
What can I see along the route?
The trail offers diverse scenery, including farmlands, wooded valleys, and quaint New England towns. You'll enjoy views of lakes and rivers, including seven crossings of the Mascoma River and skirting the northern shore of Mascoma Lake. Look out for historic covered bridges, sustainable farms, orchards, and impressive rock cuts. You can also explore highlights like Hanover and the Abandoned Mill in Enfield.
Are there any sections of the trail that are more challenging for cyclists?
While generally easy, the section from Grafton to Lebanon can be more challenging due to regular sandy spots and exposed railroad ties. For a smoother ride, the Merrimack County section (Boscawen to Danbury) is known for its excellent surface. Hybrid, cross, gravel, or mountain bikes are recommended for the entire trail, though road bikes with 28c+ tires can manage.
Does the trail intersect other well-known paths?
Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Northern Rail Trail, Upper Valley Loop Trail, Appalachian Trail, and Mascoma River Greenway.
Is the trail suitable for beginners or families with children?
Absolutely! Its rail-trail conversion means minimal inclines, making it largely flat and accessible for a wide range of cyclists, including beginners and families. The main consideration is the varied surface, so choose your bike accordingly.
Are there places to eat or find amenities along the trail?
Yes, the trail passes through several historic villages and towns where you can find restaurants and convenience stores. The Danbury Country Store is particularly noted for its sandwiches and house-made soda. Some locations also offer bike repair stations and e-bike battery charging.
What kind of bike is best for the Northern Rail Trail?
Due to the varied surface, which includes crushed gravel, packed dirt, and some sandy spots, a hybrid, cross, gravel, or mountain bike is highly recommended. Road bikes with tires 28c or larger can also manage, but wider tires will provide a more comfortable and stable ride.
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