Mine Falls Park in Nashua is a 300-acre-plus urban park with a network of approximately 9.7 miles of a variety of trail types. This forested park offers an extraordinary nature experience in the heart of New Hampshire’s second-most populous city along the Nashua River. The park is a beacon of recreational opportunities; in addition to the trail network, the area boasts historic exploration, wildlife viewing, ball fields, and ample fishing spots.
About the Route
One great starting point for the Mine Falls Park Trails is the Mine Falls Gatehouse/Dam trailhead, located on the western side of the trail system, between the Nashua River and Mill Pond, accessible from Stadium Drive. The impressive Mine Falls Dam appears right next to the parking area; here, trail users can also glimpse a gatehouse (currently being restored) constructed by the Nashua Manufacturing Company in 1886 as part of the canal system that is now on the National Register of Historic Places.
Mine Falls Park extends to the east, immediately presenting you with three primary pathway options. Following the northern side of the Nashua Canal, the old towpath travels east directly alongside the water. In 1.2 miles, the trail crosses under US 3/Everett Turnpike and comes to a trail junction at the Whipple Street trailhead. There are many different trail connections throughout the park, and three bridges cross the canal.
Staying along the northern side of the canal for the remaining 1.1 miles, the trail makes its way to the eastern edge of the park. Beautiful views of the river, wetlands, and wildlife abound on the northern side of the trail overlooking Oxbow Lake and The Cove. The Nashua Manufacturing Company Historic District is located just one block east of the park at Clocktower Place and Factory Street Extension.
In addition to the canal towpath, a trail on the northern edge of the park closely follows the south bank of the Nashua River. Just after passing under US 3/Everett Turnpike, trail users can opt to continue straight toward the eastern side of the park or turn left to make a small loop through the wooded area that runs adjacent to the southern side of the river.
To the south, a paved trail segment begins just off Stadium Drive near Stellos Stadium and closely follows the southern edge of the canal for the length of the park.
Throughout the park, trails suitable only for hiking offer a unique wilderness experience right in Nashua.
Connections
Trail users can also access the nearby Nashua Heritage Rail Trail.
Trail History
The Nashua River and Nashua Canal both cut right through the park, providing an interesting glimpse into the city’s past. The Nashua Manufacturing Company built the canal to channel water from the river downstream to a dam, creating a crucial power source for the mills and industrial movement in the area during the 1800s.
The Mine Falls Park Trails run through Mine Falls Park in Nashua, New Hampshire.
Parking is available at:
Please see TrailLink Map for all parking options and detailed directions.
A very nice park leading from the center of Nashua to the YMCA. Really a nice asset for the community. As very little of the trail is paved, I suspect it would be difficult for road bikes but for anyone with a Hybrid or Mountain Bike, this is a nice get away. It weaves through both woods and along the waterway, providing a nice feeling of getting into nature. Definitely worth checking out for a ride someday.
Came out from central mass and it really wasnt what i was expecting. Might be fun if you have a mountain bike but this is more of a local's spot for daily exercise
Great trails to take you out of the city.
went last week for a bike ride. didnt seem to busy, parking was easy to find. has a good amount of trails to pick from so u can loop yourself different ways, and they aren't too difficult. just enough space to kill park of your day outside:) lots of great views by the water. good for walking jogging or biking.
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