Reviewed by: GreenNuggs ,  Weekend Warrior , from Dracut, MA, USA

Summary:
Great for Beginner through Intermediate. Advanced riders can appreciate the two large hills and subsequent downhills with varying horse trails and single track. If going around the whole lake, it's really only a 30-40 minute fast track unless you do alot of off track riding.

Most recommend to park at the headquarters. Thats only good if you doing the whole loop around the lake. But 1/2 of that loop is boring. Take i495 to Exit 52 (Haverill Rt 110) Take a left off exit and then an IMMEDIATE left to Northern Essex Community College. Follow road to end, then take a left and another quick left into the College's parking lot. Park on row facing street. You can avoid the boring parts and just play in the hilly area!

Recommended Route:
I've turned the following into my daily routine. Turns the 2 hills into 3 due to doubling back. Mount up, head left down the road. Duck in, follow trail with lake to right. At fork, stay on the horse trail to left going up the hill. This hill is long and hard. Notice 2 steep technical trails that lead down to the lake. Take them the second time you ride here. At the top, theres an ok downhill. Take single track that juts to the right 1/2 way down. Right back onto main trail and continue along the lake for awhile (lots of walkers in this section) Almost at end, take left onto the road to castle. Notice 2 steep sections on right (They're sick!) At top of castle, go towards lower parking area, take trail, take first singletrack right, first left (too far right and you'll have to hoof it back) Explore the single tracks, then head back left towards the lake and double back. The other side of first hill is quick! Low light in afternoons. 35-40 mins tops, good workout.

Reviewed by: J2 , from HAVERHILL

Summary:
GOOD PLACE TO START. EASY TRAILS ALONG THE LAKE WITH LOTS OF FUN STUFF OFF TRACK. GOOD MUD FLATS AND DROPS ABOVE THE LAKE ON THE WEST SIDE. NOT A BAD PLACE FOR BEGINERS, FROM FLAT, WIDE FIRE ROADS TO LEDGE AND GOOD STREAM RIDIN. CAN'T GET LOST EITHER.

Reviewed by: kebba , from Haverhill

Summary:
I am new to real mountain biking so this trail is my speed right now. There are a few semi-steep inclines with lots of rocks and roots. Once you are on singletrack keep your eyes open for fallen trees - recent weather has downed two or three, covering the whole trail. I'm learning quite a bit on this - It's a great ride for beginners! The fireroads are very popular with runners/walkers/dogs - especially later in the afternoon.

Recommended Route:
Route 495 to Route 110 in Haverhill. Drive past the tennis courts and park along the side of the road.