Gravel riders, please join me on a beautiful but challenging ride through Harold Parker state forest and a few nearby reservations. We will be riding on quiet paved streets and mostly wide double track trails that go through the forest and around Sterns Pond, Salem Pond, and Field Pond.  There are some sections with loose gravel that will require some extra attention, but the majority of the 7.5 miles of gravel riding are easy to negotiate.

Please arrive at the starting location (305 Middleton Road, North Andover, MA) and be ready for the safety talk at 9:20. There is a porta-potty in the parking lot and a DCR fee of $5 (or a DCR pass) is required.

First time riders will need to sign a waiver.

Gravel ride
Category 3 Infrequently maintained trails and roads requiring a higher skill level. Use  30-40 psi tire pressure, depending on your weight and the minimum sidewall rating. 
Ideal bike: Gravel bike 
Tire size: 33-40mm 
See Types of Gravel Rides
Saturday, October 17, 2026 at 9:30am
Harold Parker State Forest Headquarters
305 Middleton St
North Andover MA 01845
There are restrooms at the start.
Routes
Please download this latest version of the routes before each ride.
Route Miles Elev.* Print Files
Harold Parker Gravel 18 18 805 Cue sheet Send to device
* Elev. is the elevation gain in feet.
Route maps
18 miles, 42% unpaved
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First Time NSC Riders

First Time NSC Riders (or anyone else with questions) please review the First-Time NSC Riders Q&A.

NSC Ride Safety Culture

For the safety of riders including you, please adhere to all of the NSC safety guidelines and Bicycle Law/ Courtesy guidelines.