Beautiful setting, but clearly not designed for bike riders. Much of the 12 miles of trail (Wolfeboro to Wakefield) runs between the confines of remaining railroad rails, so despite the filled-in smooth surface there is no possibility that riders approaching from opposite directions will have room to pass each other. The many walkers we encountered were all considerate to voluntarily step aside and allow us to pass, although we repeatedly needed to hold up for other riders, giving them the right-of-way. One group of riders that included young children attempting to manage the difficult passages unsupervised caused my wife to take a bad fall. We have used and enjoyed many rail trails in NH -- this one deserves to be crossed off every bicycler's list.

I started from Sawyer River Road parking lot and biked all the way to Swift River near 112 which blocks bike access. So technically you cannot finish the whole trail, even very close. Sawyer River Rd is very good to bike. But think about Sawyer River Trail again before you continue. The trail is not maintained for biking. I had to carry the bike in several locations. There is a big falling tree completely blocking the trail.

The whole trail is very very pretty in the fall. I uploaded some photos.

We rode this trail from the Water St. parking lot in Augusta. This is virtually the beginning of the trail except for a very short segment that goes down to a park at the river level. The trail takes a break in Hallowell's Granite City Park. There is some historical information here and Adirondack chairs set up to view the river. At the Park, the trail goes onto the street for less than a mile (stay on the main street). There are some really cool old buildings in the town. The trail then goes up to the right. This is a relatively flat and easy ride. It is all paved with few bumps.

This is an old dirt road that’s been gated off at the end of the tar portion. Nice, flat, and wide with occasional views of Lake Auburn. It’s a favorite with local runners. We have encountered a few dogs off leash despite local ordinances so beware of that. A nice early morning walk or run.

Recommend parking at Capital Ave (in the middle of trail) then bike each way. We stopped at School, but trail continues on/along road to Lisbon. There is a nice picnic table near Capital Ave parking lot, right along the river. The section between Davis St and the boat launch is right along the river and has an A+ scenic rating. Trail is lots of short up and down hills, probably not flat more than 50% of the way. Past the boat launch is a significant wooded uphill about 1/2 mile, we didn't need a rest but casual bikers will. That section is not recommended for small children that won't know how to brake. Bring a picnic and enjoy the short trail. No street crossings on the recommended section. p.s. I don't think this is a rail trail, though it goes roughly parallel to track.

The family all loved this rail trail. The unpaved section was a bit hilly and rocky (about 1 mile). The paved section ran parallel to the train tracks. Really cool bridge over the water. Also stopped by the Orchard Ridge farm along the way. Visited the animals and had tasty donuts, fudge and cheese.

We rode from Wolfeboro 7 miles out and back with our three kids. I was very nervous after reading the reviews of people getting hurt. We almost didn’t do this trail because of the reviews. The part we rode was great! Yes, there are parts where you have to switch between the trail and the track but if you are careful and SLOW down this is not an issue. The trail is mostly flat with great scenery . I say a it’s a great trail!

I’ve ridden and walked all over this trail over the years as a local yocal. The portion from downtown Wolfeboro to Fernald station is basically for walkers/joggers only. There are a ton out all times of the year and rightfully so, it’s mint. I got an e-bike recently, and have found the portion from Fernald Station in Wolfeboro out to Wakefield is the best for bikes. It’s crushed stone the entire way and limited foot traffic. Picnic tables along the way too with spots to chill.

Horrible experience....I have a very narrow-tired bike and didn't know anything about the trail (should have read other reviews!!) and fell 3 times and I am an experienced rider....All gravel, dirt, and on and off the RR tracks many times...very treacherous!! And every time you meet someone you have to stop or they do, to let you by. Some beautiful scenery by the lake but you can't take your eyes off the terrain as it is very uneven. OK for walkers.