Upper Coos Rail Trail and Beaver Brook Falls Loop

The Upper Coos Rail Trail primarily features a surface of packed earth, dirt, gravel, crushed stone, and cinder. While some sections are reasonably smooth, it can be bumpy due to variable conditions and occasional stray railroad ties. It's generally unpaved, making bikes with wider tires, like gravel bikes or mountain bikes, more suitable than standard road bikes.

The trail is rated as easy to moderate. Its relatively flat profile makes it accessible, but the variable unpaved surface and shared use with ATVs can add a layer of challenge. Beginners comfortable with riding on gravel or dirt paths should find it manageable, especially on weekdays when ATV traffic is lighter.

Access points for the Upper Coos Rail Trail are available in Colebrook, New Hampshire, and extending north towards Beecher Falls, Vermont. Specific parking areas can be found at these towns, which serve as trailheads for the rail trail.

This route offers wild and scenic views, paralleling the Connecticut River with picturesque water and farmland vistas. You'll see the distinct geology of Vermont and New Hampshire, haying fields, and potentially wildlife like cows and wild turkeys. Notable highlights include the Bridge to Beecher Falls and the beautiful Beaver Brook Falls.

Yes, the Upper Coos Rail Trail is generally dog-friendly. However, as it is a multi-use trail shared with ATVs, snowmobiles, mushers, and horseback riders, it's important to keep your dog leashed and under control at all times for their safety and the comfort of other trail users.

The best time to cycle this route is typically during the spring, summer, and fall months. Weekday rides are recommended to avoid heavy ATV traffic and associated dust, which can be more prevalent on weekends. The autumn foliage offers particularly scenic views.

Beaver Brook Falls State Wayside is a roadside attraction with short walking loops and picnic areas. Generally, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to visit the falls themselves, as it's a public state wayside.

Yes, the route primarily follows sections of the Upper Coos Recreational Rail Trail. It also briefly intersects with other paths such as Corridor 21A, Corridor C, South Hill Trail, Piper Hill Trail, Halls Stream Trail, and Primary 128.

As the trail offers wild and scenic views along the Connecticut River, you might spot various wildlife. Common sightings include cows in nearby fields and wild turkeys. The natural environment also supports other local fauna.

The 'Beaver Brook Falls' mentioned in the tour name refers to the Beaver Brook Falls State Wayside in Colebrook, NH. This is a beautiful roadside attraction with an 80-foot cascade and short walking paths, but it is not a cycling trail itself. The primary cycling component of this tour is the Upper Coos Rail Trail, with the falls serving as a scenic point of interest to visit.

The Upper Coos Rail Trail runs near towns like Colebrook, New Hampshire, and Beecher Falls, Vermont. These towns offer amenities such as cafes, pubs, and accommodation options for cyclists looking to refuel or stay overnight.