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The Old Railroad, as its name suggests, is a multi-use trail that occupies a former Boston & Maine Railroad corridor. The trail picks up at the northern trailhead of the Common Pathway, a paved rail-trail that stretches 6.5 miles to Noone Falls. The Old Railroad Trail is a hard-packed dirt trail that winds through forests surrounding the Contoocook River for 2.7 miles from the Peterborough Recycling Center to Forest Road in Hancock. The trail is usable year-round, with cross-country skiers taking full advantage in the wintertime. Leashed dogs are also welcome on the trail.
To reach the trailhead near the Peterborough Recycling Center from the intersection of SR 101/Wilton Road and NH 123, head north on Granite St./US 202, and go 4.1 miles (the road becomes Pine St., then US 202 E/Concord St., then Hancock Road). Turn right onto Scott Mitchell Road, go 0.2 mile, and turn right into the trailhead parking lot (immediately after Sanitation Lane).
For the alternate trailhead connecting to the Common Pathway, follow the directions above, but turn left instead of right at Scott Mitchell Road. Look for the parking lot immediately on your left. The northern endpoint is located about 0.2 mile north along the trail.
e-Bike with 2" tires. The trail adjoins Peterborough (Common Path) RT. Rough trail with roots and rocks, so speeds above 10 are impossible to maintain. On a positive note, you really feel like you are in the woods. We were able to go slightly longer than the miles posted. A tiring short ride, but doable. Wife hated it, as too bumpy. Recommendation: ride Peterborough (Common Path) first as it is much easier.
Such a great little trail! Out and back is five miles but you an easily add miles by jumping on the Common Pathway. Quiet and mostly dirt with some roots here and there. An easy trail run in the area. Can be buggy so be prepared . Parking is a small area past the recyclimg center. Enjoy!
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