Massachusetts has the sixth largest system of State Forests, Parks and Wildlife Management Areas in the nation. Hundreds of miles of multi-use trails are available for hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, cross country skiing and other outdoor activities.
Situated in the hills of western Massachusetts and within easy reach of New York City and Boston,
the Berkshires Region is a four season outdoor destination that offers a wonderful brew of history, culture and recreation. October
Mountain,Savoy Mountain and Beartown State Forest have some of the largest trail networks in the area. Jiminy Peak ski resort offers the most extensive lift-served mountain biking in the Berkshires.
After your mountain bike ride, explore the charming New England villages of Stockbridge, Lenox and Great Barrington. Browse through the many antique shops and enjoy a romantic weekend with candlelit dinner in one of the area's many historic
inns. In the fall, the Berkshires are magical when the hills and valleys are painted with brilliant hues of
red and orange.
Try some of the Massachusetts Rail Trails. The Cape Cod Rail Trail is the perfect scenic, family friendly ride. There are many opportunities to get off the trail and hit the beach. Take a 5-mile spin on the Marblehead Rail Trail , located north of Boston for a ride along scenic, rocky coastline, past several charming seaside towns.
Beartown State Forest located in the Berkshires is one of the best places to ride in summer. Miles of trails wind through cool forest and Benedict Pond with it's sandy beach is ideal . . .
Located in the heart of Massachusetts,
the Central region is characterized by
the 46-mile Blackstone River, rolling countryside, farmland, meadows and
quintessential New England towns. The region is well-known for it's historical
background with landmarks dating back to the Industrial Revolution. It is the
home of Old Sturbridge Village and the birthplace of Johnny Appleseed. Biking along
the scenic Blackstone River Rail Trail at Blackstone
River & Canal Heritage State
Park is an absolute must for history lovers.
The Northeast region, north of Boston,
is comprised of the picturesque North Shore
which includes Gloucester, the nation's oldest fishing seaport, the old mill
town of Lowell, picturesque Rockport, and historical Salem. The region is noted for its miles of rocky shores and beaches, museums and
the longest operating art colony in the United States. The
Marblehead Rail Trail, with a side spur to Salem, winds through scenic waterside communities
providing an easy ride with the opportunity for a swim. Historical
experiences await you in both Salem and Marblehead.
The Merrimack River flows along the northern border with New Hampshire.
This area is characterized by rolling hills with broad valleys and an unspoiled
rural charm. The former Moseley family estate on the Merrimack River, now Maudslay
State Park, has trails featuring undulating meadows, towering pines and exquisite
19th century gardens.
The Pioneer Valley is a land of both
mountains and rivers. The
Connecticut River flows south from Vermont
to the Long Island Sound and meanders in big
loops across a broad fertile valley. In the northern reaches of the region, the
Holyoke Range, towers over 1,100 feet above the Connecticut River.
Here you will find some of the best mountain biking venues in Massachussetts. Holyoke Range State Park offers
miles of bridle and carriage paths for the mountain biker with breathtaking views. Otter River State Forest has
ample opportunity for wildlife viewing experiences. Other good places to ride
are: Mount Tom State Reservation, Mount Toby in Sunderland, and The Northfield
Mountain Recreation and Environmental Center.
Southeast Massachusetts is characterized by
miles of beaches, marshlands, lighthouses, sea captains' homes, picturesque fishing
villages and Cape Cod. There are many miles
of bicycle paths and mountain bike trails. Some are convenient routes across the Cape and along
the National Seashore while others are "off-the-beaten-path".
The Manuel F. Correllus State Forest, the winding roads
on Martha's Vineyard, Nickerson
State Park, West Barnstable Conservation Area (Trail of Tears) and the 25
mile Cape Cod Rail Trail offer spectacular cycling in an ocean setting with views of wide dune fields,
sandy bluffs, wildflower meadows and unspoiled beaches.
