Onway Lake

Embark on a moderate touring bicycle adventure along the Rockingham Recreational Rail Trail, stretching 21.3 miles (34.3 km) with a gentle 656 feet (200 metres) of elevation gain. This route offers a pleasant ride that typically takes around 3 hours and 13 minutes to complete. As you pedal, you'll journey through a diverse landscape, transitioning from dense hardwood and conifer forests to serene wetlands and spruce swamps. Keep an eye out for wildlife like deer and loons, especially around the scenic ponds and the expansive Massabesic Lake. You will also encounter impressive high-walled cuts blasted through New Hampshire's granite, a unique feature of the trail.

When planning your visit, be aware that trail conditions can vary; it might be muddy in the spring, so prepare accordingly. Mosquitoes can also be prevalent during certain times, so bringing insect repellent is a good idea. In some sections, you may need to dismount and walk your bike through narrow culverts. The Massabesic Lake trailhead is a popular and convenient starting point, offering ample parking for your vehicle.

This rail trail provides a wonderful opportunity to explore New Hampshire's natural beauty and rich history. As you ride, you'll pass historical markers that offer glimpses into the region's past, adding an educational layer to your outdoor experience. The varied ecosystems, from forests to wetlands, showcase the diverse environment of the area, making it a notable route for nature observation and a peaceful escape.

Cycle the challenging 50.5-mile Rockingham Recreational Rail Trail Loop, featuring diverse landscapes, historical sites, and varied terrain.

Embark on the Rockingham Recreational Rail Trail Loop for a touring bicycle adventure through New Hampshire's varied landscapes. You will pedal beneath a lush canopy of hardwood and conifer forests, with scenic views opening up to tranquil wetlands, ponds, and the picturesque shores of Massabesic Lake. This moderate route spans 36.3 miles (58.4 km), involves a total elevation gain of 1345 feet (410 metres), and typically takes about 4 hours and 35 minutes to complete.

For the best experience on this trail, you should bring a mountain bike or gravel bike, as the surface varies from packed gravel to rougher sections with stones, sand, or dirt. Be prepared for potential standing water or bogs in certain areas. If you encounter underpasses with low ceilings, you may need to dismount and walk your bike. Ample parking is available, particularly near the Massabesic Lake trailhead in Manchester, making it a convenient starting point for your ride.

This loop offers a unique glimpse into the region's past, as the route occasionally rises above the forest floor or cuts through granite, revealing remnants of its railroad history and historical markers. It provides a comprehensive experience of a popular rail trail, blending natural beauty with historical context, making it a rewarding day out for cyclists looking to explore the area's heritage and diverse ecosystems.