Ashuwillticook Rail Trail

What a fantastic trail. I just learned how to ride a bike and this was an easy trail which is primarily flat. There are plenty of gorgeous views over lakes and mountains as well as a few animal sightings — turtles, rabbits, ducks, birds, and frogs. The roads are wide enough for three riders if needed and all road stops are clearly marked. Great trail for a fast ride or a leisurely ride. Also, there are plenty of spots and benches to stop for lunch. Very clean and well maintained. Other riders are very friendly and when I needed a bike pump there were plenty of people that offered help. Will definitely be back. Main tip: Take bug spray with you — there are spots of gnats that can get really annoying.

This trail is beautiful, clean and mostly flat. It starts (the south end of it) at the Berkshire Mall Road and Rte 8 in Lanesborough. It’s about 11 miles one way. It takes you from Lanesborough, through Cheshire and ends at the Adams Tourist Center. You pass lakes, rivers, wetlands all surrounded by mountains. I saw turtles, rabbits, birds, chipmunks, horses and cows.
Most of the crossings are small little traveled roads. There is one big one crossing over Rte 8 that warrants a dismount and a crossing on a pedestrian signal. It’s at the end of the Cheshire Reservoir approx 6 miles into the ride. Then about 2 miles after that you will notice you barely have to pedal anymore the rest of the three miles. It’s a mild incline glide all the way to the end. Enjoy it and try not to think about pedaling back the other direction until its time lol.
Rest at the Adams Tourist Center at the North end, refill you water bottles and then tackle that first three miles upwards with gusto.
I rewarded myself with a couple cold beers at the Bass Water Grille before I recrossed Rte 8 for the final leg back to the Mall trail head. It was medicinal I swear! It was a very enjoyable day and I will be doing it again.
You could always start at the Adams trail head and get the 3 mile incline over with fresh legs. but from where I was staying it was just extra driving for any real benefit.
Happy Pedaling!