Mountain Biking at Massasoit

Mountain biking is allowed at Massasoit State Park, and DCR names two routes for it: the Adams Trail and the Five Pond Loop. DCR's suggested ride, the Adams–5 Pond Ride, starts at the main entrance lot on Middleboro Avenue, follows the Adams Trail down the park's east side to the Five Pond Loop, rides the loop and returns, about 7.5 miles at a moderate level. Riders 16 and under must wear a helmet, motor vehicles are banned on the trails, and the trails are shared with hikers and horses.

The Adams–5 Pond Ride (7.5 Miles, Moderate)

Park at the main entrance lot by the contact station. Pick up the Adams Trail near the cranberry bog and ride south along the eastern side of the park. DCR warns that the Adams Trail crosses some steep hills and passes a white cedar swamp. At the south end, join the blue-blazed Five Pond Loop, ride the loop, then return on the Adams Trail. DCR puts the whole ride at 7.5 miles.

Shorter Options

• Five Pond Loop only: about 3 miles, rated easy for hikers, from the Turner Street trailhead.
• Adams Trail out and back: 4.5 miles to Fisherman's Landing on Big Bearhole Pond and back.

Both use DCR's distances. See hiking and the trail map.

Rules for Riders

• Stay on marked trails. DCR lists it as a park rule, and its plan reports unauthorized bike trails cutting through rare-species habitat and wetlands.
• Stay out of the campground. DCR's plan names trails through the campground as a source of camper-cyclist conflicts and recommends closing them. Ride around it.
• Stay in the park. Some unofficial trails lead onto private property; DCR plans to close them.
• Helmets: Massachusetts law requires them for riders 16 and under, and DCR recommends them for everyone.
• No off-road vehicles. Dirt bikes and ATVs are banned. Report illegal use to the park at (508) 828-4230.
• Keep groups small: DCR suggests 12 or fewer.

Sharing the Trail

DCR's trail guidelines ask everyone to be aware of other trail users. Slow down at blind corners and near ponds, where walkers and anglers stop, and give horses plenty of room.

Races

DCR's plan notes that Massasoit hosts mountain-bike and trail-running races. If you arrive on a race day, expect busy lots and marked courses.

Want More Miles?

Freetown State Forest, DCR's 5,000-acre forest in Assonet, has 25 miles of trails and lists mountain biking too.