Start and Finish: Potter Place, Andover, NH
Distance: 15.29 miles
Elevation Gain: 442 ft
Terrain: Level with one good sized hill. Paved, gravel and dirt roads.
Towns: New London, Wilmot, Andover
Starting at Potter Place Park n’ Ride, head east on the Northern Rail Trail for just under five miles. You’ll pass through one tunnel, over wooden bridges and past scenic wetlands before intersecting with Plains Road. Turn left onto Plains Road and turn left again onto Route 11 (Franklin Highway). You won’t be here long—Old College Road will come up fast, take a right and you’ll be on the back roads of Andover. Old College Road is the start of your first hill climb. Take a right onto Maple Street and shake out your legs if needed before heading up the second climb of the ride. Although brief, you will hit 12% grade. The climb is worth it and there are great views of Highland Lake from the top. From here, cruise downhill and around Highland Lake. In East Andover you will take a right onto Channel Road and make your way back to the Rail Trail. Complete the ride by taking the trail back to your starting point at Potter Place.
NOTE: Off of Channel Road, you will pass the public boat launch, and the Andover Town Beach right before getting back on the trail. There are a couple picnic tables on the RT that are great to stop at and have a quick snack.
Get turn-by-turn directions for this bike route on our Strava page.
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