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Routes
Road cycling routes
United States
Massachusetts
Essex County
Andover

Skug River Reservation – Berry Pond loop from Andover

Routes
Road cycling routes
United States
Massachusetts
Essex County
Andover

Skug River Reservation – Berry Pond loop from Andover

Moderate

2.8

(14)

47

riders

Skug River Reservation – Berry Pond loop from Andover

01:33

35.0km

240m

Road cycling

Moderate road ride. Great for any fitness level. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.

Last updated: May 26, 2026

Tips

The surface for a segment of your route may not be suitable

Some segments of your route comprise a surface that may not be suitable for your chosen sport.

After 27.0 km for 65 m

Waypoints

A

Start point

Train Station

Get Directions

1

4.57 km

Ward Reservation Trailhead

Highlight • Trail

Nice off road trails from this trailhead to the water tower (gravel bike). From the water tower / solstice rocks on, you will need a mountain bike.

Tip by

2

5.72 km

Skug River Reservation

Highlight • Forest

The mountain bike trails in this area are great and easy to follow. They are not technical at all. Nevertheless some features – like the boardwalks along the ponds – can be exciting for novice riders.

Tip by

3

7.48 km

Harold Parker State Forest

Highlight • Forest

Harold Parker State Forest has a great network of awesome singletracks. Altogether there are about 35 miles of well maintained mountain bike trails. If you want to explore all of them just stay a whole weekend and reserve your campsite here: reserveamerica.com/explore/harold-parker-state-forest/MA/32608/overview

Tip by

4

7.89 km

Lorraine Park Campground

Highlight • Rest Area

Lorraine campground can accommodate bikepackers easily in the tent sites. They also have lean-tos. mass.gov/locations/harold-parker-state-forest

Tip by

5

23.9 km

Ponds, swamps, rolling hills, and rocky outcroppings can be found in this state forest, which features more than 35 miles of roads and trails as well as remnants of 18th-century farming and milling operations.

Tip by

26.2 km

Harold Parker State Forest

Nature Reserve

7

27.1 km

Berry Pond

Highlight • Lake

Berry Pond is a popular little spot in the Harold Parker State Forest. There are picnic facilities, parking and the Healthy Heart trail in the area. It is one of the only natural ponds at Harold Parker, the other being Bear Pond.

Tip by

B

35.0 km

End point

Train Station

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Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

29.5 km

2.94 km

2.13 km

281 m

148 m

< 100 m

Surfaces

32.9 km

1.70 km

261 m

108 m

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Elevation

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Highest point (90 m)

Lowest point (20 m)

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Weather

Powered by Foreca

Today

Thursday 9 July

34°C

18°C

36 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 15.0 km/h

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Description

If you're seeking a rewarding road cycling route that combines natural beauty with a manageable challenge near Andover, the Skug River Reservation – Berry Pond loop from Andover is an excellent option. This moderate 21.7-mile (35.0 km) ride, featuring 791 feet (241 metres) of elevation gain, can typically be completed in about 1 hour and 33 minutes, making it ideal for a satisfying morning or afternoon spin.

What to expect on Skug River Reservation – Berry Pond loop from Andover

As you embark on this journey, you'll find yourself cycling through the varied landscape of Harold Parker State Forest, where the route meanders past numerous ponds and through tranquil, wooded areas. A notable feature is Berry Pond Road, a paved section that is closed to motorized traffic, providing a wonderfully peaceful stretch for cyclists. While much of the route is paved, be aware that some segments may include wide dirt paths, so a road bike with slightly wider tires or a gravel bike could enhance your comfort. The Skug River Reservation itself offers very scenic views, and you might even encounter historical elements like the massive stone walls of a former millrace. This moderate loop is well-suited for cyclists with good fitness who enjoy a blend of paved and unpaved surfaces and appreciate exploring conservation land.

Planning your visit

Parking is generally available near the starting point in Andover, though specific trailhead parking isn't detailed in the sources. Given the popularity of areas like Harold Parker State Forest, arriving earlier in the day, especially on weekends, is often a good strategy to secure a spot. The area is enjoyable throughout the warmer months, with Berry Pond Road being particularly family-friendly due to its car-free nature. Always carry sufficient water, especially during warmer weather, as amenities along the route may be limited.

Trail details

  • Distance: 21.7 miles (35.0 km)
  • Elevation gain: 791 feet (241 metres)
  • Difficulty: moderate
  • Estimated time: 1 hours and 33 minutes

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