What we’re about
This group is for people who would like to bike on the various rail trails in northern MA and southern NH, both paved and unpaved. When mountain biking on unpaved trails, we will definitely NOT be rock hopping or stump jumping; none of that crazy stuff. We'll stick to mostly flat rail trails and parks, maintaining a moderate pace and with several water breaks along the way. We'll be offering both weekend and mid-week rides, possibly some evening rides, too.
Most of the trails we'll do are in the range of 15 - 25 miles round trip, which translates into a riding time of approximately 2 - 3 hours, depending on the length of the ride and the breaks we take along the way. Our rides are intended as social activities, rather than physical challenges or a biking competition. Participants are encouraged to bike at their own pace, whatever that may be. We'll stop and regroup from time to time, to make sure that we don't lose anybody on the trail. See our Rail Trail Resources page for links to descriptions of the trails we ride.
You can also check out the trails we ride by visiting our Virtual Bike Ride page in the group's message boards.
Upcoming events (4+)
See all- Bike the Nashua River Rail Trail on Monday, May 12Nashua River Rail Trail, Nashua, NH
Come enjoy a nice, sunny day riding on the beautiful, tree-lined Nashua River Rail Trail. This will be an easy, moderately paced ride that extends through the Massachusetts towns of Dunstable, Pepperell, Groton and Ayer. It will be a round trip of approximately 24 miles, with regrouping stops in Pepperell and Groton for a quick water break and a little conversation (this IS a social event).
Parking: Park in the lot by the intersection of Countryside Drive and Gilson Road in Nashua. Approximate street address is 94 Gilson Road, Nashua, NH.
Any bike is suitable for this ride, as the trail is entirely paved.
Lunch: Bring a lunch or snack to eat at the end of the trail in Ayer. Also, bring LOTS of water, so you can stay hydrated.
Ice Cream: Be sure to bring some cash with you. On our return trip from Ayer, let's stop at Main Street Scoops, the new ice cream shop in Pepperell Square (formerly Charlotte's Cozy Kitchen). Got to keep the ice cream tradition going!
Rest Rooms: There's a port-a-potty in the parking lot. There are also new restrooms in Ayer at the trail end.
IMPORTANT: Be sure your bike is in good working order! Tires should be in good shape and pumped up, gears should shift smoothly, and your brakes should be properly adjusted. If possible, pack a spare tube in case of a flat. A hand pump or CO2 inflator is also desirable, though not absolutely necessary, as many riders will already have them.
Safety: A bike helmet is mandatory when riding with us!
AS CONDITION OF ATTENDING THIS MEETUP, YOU AGREE TO: Hold harmless, and indemnify the organizers and their relations and heirs, and all members and participants of the Meetup group from any and all claims for injury, illness, death, and/or property damage, including those caused by negligence, ignorance, inexperience and other reasons. You also agree to assume all mental, physical, financial, and/or other risk associated with this meetup. Kayaking, camping, hiking, bicycling, and other such activities pose inherent risks and dangers. Participation in these activities is voluntary and dependent upon your own personal judgment. As organizers, we make no claims regarding any expertise for this outing. This is not a guided tour.
Consuming alcohol before or during any of our events is prohibited.