Mascoma Lake loop

The Mascoma Lake loop is approximately 24.4 kilometers (15.2 miles) long. On average, it takes about 2 hours to complete this touring bicycle route.

The 7-mile 'Around Mascoma Lake' loop primarily follows Route 4A and Shaker Boulevard. While offering scenic lake views, cyclists should be aware that parts of Route 4A may have traffic. The route also connects to the Northern Rail Trail, which features a generally flat, packed gravel path suitable for touring bikes. For a longer adventure, a nearly 50-mile gravel loop starting from Mascoma Lake offers easy, scenic packed gravel in the first half, transitioning to dirt backroads with more significant elevation gain in the second half.

The core 'Around Mascoma Lake' loop has sections on Route 4A that may have traffic, which beginners should be aware of. However, riding out-and-back on Shaker Boulevard can avoid busier sections. The connecting Northern Rail Trail is known for its generally flat and easy grades, making it a very beginner-friendly option with a wide, packed gravel surface.

Cyclists on the 'Around Mascoma Lake' loop will enjoy numerous views of Mascoma Lake. The Northern Rail Trail offers diverse and 'fabulous' landscapes, winding through farmlands, historic villages, and past scenic lakes, streams, and hills. You'll cross the Mascoma River multiple times and pass through wooded areas, with stunning mountain views also a highlight.

Yes, the route offers several points of interest. You'll pass by Mascoma Lake and Mascoma Lake Beach. The Northern Rail Trail, a significant 'rails-to-trails' conversion, provides glimpses of the historic Shaker Bridge (built in 1849) and passes through sites of former industries like a sawmill village and the Baltic Mill.

Yes, the Mascoma Lake area boasts excellent connectivity. The route connects to the Northern Rail Trail, which is a significant 'rails-to-trails' conversion. The Mascoma River Greenway in Lebanon also links directly to the Northern Rail Trail, creating a combined route that spans 62 miles. Sections of this route also utilize the Northern Rail Trail and Mill Road.

The 7-mile 'Around Mascoma Lake' loop typically starts in downtown Enfield. You can look for public parking options in that area to begin your ride.

While the specific 'Around Mascoma Lake' loop on roads may not be ideal for dogs, the connecting Northern Rail Trail is generally considered family-friendly, which often extends to well-behaved, leashed dogs. Always check local regulations and signage for specific leash requirements.

The Northern Rail Trail, which connects to the Mascoma Lake loop, offers a diverse and 'fabulous' landscape, suggesting that spring, summer, and fall would all be excellent times to enjoy the scenery. Summer allows for potential swimming opportunities in Mascoma Lake.

There is no mention of specific permits or entrance fees required for cycling the Mascoma Lake loop or the connecting Northern Rail Trail. These are generally public access routes.

Yes, along the routes, recreational opportunities abound, including access to local amenities like stores for refreshments. The Mascoma River Greenway and Northern Rail Trail pass through historic villages where you might find options.

Yes, while parts of Route 4A on the 'Around Mascoma Lake' loop may have traffic, an alternative is to ride out-and-back on Shaker Boulevard to avoid the busier sections.