My son loves to ride his bike at the campground with friends! I dusted off my old beach cruiser, so we are now all ready for some biking adventures. We have been out exploring parks and trails that are family-friendly bike riding spots. Here are some of our favorite trails in Merrimack Valley and a few more within a 30 min drive.
- Riverside Park, Haverhill
Details: Large smooth paved loop around the park for riding and walking.
Lots of trees and shade, and many people walk their dogs here as well, in fact, there is a small gated dog play area.
Extras: The park has a large playground, tented picnic area, water cannons, baseball fields, a large grassy area, basketball court.
- Harold State Park, North Andover
Details: Near the berry pond, it is paved.
For Mountain Biking - The difficulty is Moderate. Use single track from Harold Parker Road Trailhead: Park at the small parking area between A21 and A22, at about 25 Harold Parker Road
Note: Parking is $5. Explore the trails and forest roads that loop around Collins, Brackett, Delano, and Bear Ponds. If you come to a paved road, turn around and explore some more. If you have time, explore the trails south of Harold Parker Road that loop around the north of Field Pond. Maps available http://www.mass.gov/eea/agencies/dcr/massparks/region-north/harold-parkerstate-forest.html
- Methuen Rail Trail, Methuen
Details: Long paved straightaway from Salem NH line to Lawrence line. Approx 2.5 miles.
- Bradford Rail Trail, Haverhill
Details: Smooth paved path, water views, easy parking on side streets, emergency phone systems throughout the trail.
Note: The trail is new with plans to continue to build out, it is not a long trail and very easy to complete back and forth.
Extras: Dunkin Donuts is on the path, and canoe rentals are available on the other side near the downtown HC Media waterfront location.
- Newburyport Clipper City Rail Trail, Newburyport
Details: Long smooth paved trail for riding and walking. The trail starts by the bridge near Michael's Harborside restaurant and goes all the way to the train station by Metzy’s Cantina.
Extras: Cashman Park is nearby.
- Old Common, 799 Massachusetts Ave, North Andover
Details: Paved circular loop around a large grassy field.
Extras: Pack a picnic lunch to sit on the grass under a large tree, and walk over to Cows Rock Ice Cream after for a treat to cool down! Drummond Playground is just up the street.
- Amesbury Rail Trail, Amesbury
Details: Smooth shady trail for 2.7 miles Great for walking, running, and biking
You can start downtown Amesbury, and park near the mills by Crossfit. The trail ends at the Shaws plaza.
- Old Eastern Marsh Trail, Salisbury
Details: Smooth paved shady area for walking, running, and bike riding. Lots of nature exploring opportunities.
Note: No bathrooms on-site, parking is limited across the street from The Deck restaurant.
- The Bruce Freeman Rail Trail, Lowell area
The details:10-foot wide smooth paved trail
For more trails in the greater MA area check out this website Trail Link
If you have any suggestions on other trails please send them our way at cheryllachendro@macaronikid.com
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