Find the top rated cross country skiing trails in Barnstead, whether you're looking for an easy short cross country skiing trail or a long cross country skiing trail, you'll find what you're looking for. Click on a cross country skiing trail below to find trail descriptions, trail maps, photos, and reviews.
Longest trail in State and is deservedly well rated by most. It is a consistently groomed crushed stone trail with few roots and rocks. Not many places to stop and sit which on a long ride can be helpful. Make sure to ride to the statue at the southern trail head.
Most of the trip is a rail trail of good quality. The ride through Tilton is on the road and can be tricky at one intersection. The "About this Route" provides a good description. The Tilton end of the trail by MacDonalds and Super 8 is not for trail parking. Use the address shown which is within 1 mile of the end of the trail. Franklin is a great town to visit.
Most of the trip is paved and runs through the town of Laconia. There appear to be homeless people (campers at least) on one portion of the trail. Short trail that must be combined with the WOW trail for a longer ride (still short).
1st time we went south to combine with Methuen trail, some crossing lights were not working, a part of trail is hard packed dirt so a wider tire made it easier
Nice comfortable ride we started in the parking lot in North Hampton and came out on Borthwick Ave near the hospital 17 miles out and back route that will be pretty in the fall
rode 7-30-25 parked at Symmes Dr in bus depot lot - no directions for where to park. Mile markers are facing the trail, instead of perpendicular , so they can't be easily read while riding - missed a few along the way. Also signage at entrance areas should include direction and milage to either end. Thought we could hook up to the Derry trail, but that didn't happen - couldn't find it - again, signs would help !
Rode on 7-26-25 Needs mile markers at Windham end. Slight incline from Salem to Windham. The Windham trail is paved, but turns to dirt when you reach the Salem trail. Turned around and rode back to Windham.
the Windham trail is paved, but turns to dirt when you reach the Salem trail.
Turned around and rode back to Windham.
It is a great trail for all seasons. Parking available in Ayer, Groton, Pepperell and Nashua
It is a very well maintained trail. My favorite part is between the heart pond and the NARA park. More road crossing beyond that region in both directions
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