Groton School Pond via Nashua River Rail Trail
12.2 mi
Distance
7 hrs 38 min
Time
terrain
144 ft
Elev Gain
Overview
This is a moderate one way trail in J. Harry Rich State Forest.
This trail goes by Groton School Pond.
Rate this Hike
★★★★★
Public Tracks
Nashua River Rail Trail
The Nashua River Rail Trail runs from Nashua, NH to Ayer, MA. This is trail great for riding through woodlands, along the Nashua River, passing beaver ponds, sighting turtles and wildlife. There are few road crossings with no motorized vehicles allowed on the trail. The trail is well shaded making hot days bearable. The scenery is beautiful, especially in autumn!The grades are easily pedaled. We like to start at the Nashua end of the trail as the climb to Groton is longer going out with a shorter downhill from Groton to Ayer. The return from Ayer is an easy climb back to Groton followed by a long downhill to East Pepperell and easy ride from there back to Nashua. An out-and back ride (Nashua to Ayer to Nashua) makes a nice 25 mile tour.The trail is good for kids as there are several ways to make shorter rides along the trail. Kids and older can be motivated by riding for ice cream in East Pepperell!The Wikipedia article on the Nashua River Rail Trail provides information on the trail's history and highlights with helpful links.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nashua_River_Rail_Trail