Spinnin’ Pedals in…Franklin
Franklin Falls Dam Trail.
A look at one of the many trail networks to bike in NH.
This is hopefully the first of a multi-part series looking at the different trail networks across the state of NH. Many of these networks are multi-use conservation land. One such example of a mixed-use area is the Franklin Falls Dam Trail located in Franklin, NH.
Access to the FFDT network is easy, located right off Highway 127, only a few miles off Route 93. Well marked signs at the parking lot provide you with an overview of the entire network. This site is also home to a disc golf course for those who prefer two feet over two wheels.
When you are ready to start your ride, you’ll need travel down some gravel access roads before finding any singletrack. Eventually, you’ll be able to dart in on the right and ride Whaleback Trail. Surface conditions are sandy, with many fine, small stones and some roots. The trails are fairly narrow, with the upcoming corners and undulations of the terrain partially obscured by foliage. Riders who are willing to increase cadence and jump a gear up are rewarded with a ride that gets flowy at speed.
Somewhere along the way, you’ll find this frame hanging as a monument to mechanical failures.
After a quick road crossing, you should end up at the intersection of Whaleback and Mighty Chicken Ravine. This trail is one of the highlights of this network, offering more elevation and speed than the rest of the network. Beginner riders are able to roll into Mighty Chicken, while risk-takers can circle a small loop (off to the righthand side) at the top of the ravine and jump into the descent. The trail has riders zig-zagging up and down the banks of the ravine, narrowly dodging the trees to the left and right. The final right hander sends you over a drop down, a sweeping right, and a small table top to the end. A relatively recent addition to the bottom of the trail has been a teeter-totter for daring riders who want to test their balance. Bee Trail is a common route for uphill traffic so as to not impeded riders descending MCR.
A quick climb up to the start of Rusty Bucket Trail brings riders to the high point of the red section of trails. Riders will experience a little bit of elevation drop and more sweeping turns as they meander over towards Salmon Brook Trail.
Salmon Brook Trail is the most technical trail in FFDT, featuring large rocks, tight hairpins, and off-camber sections of trail. There are no alternate lines down once you have committed to this trail. The climb leading back to Heritage Trail narrows again over wooden bridges and a precipitous drop-off will be on your right. This trail represents one of the more advanced trails here. The rest of the network is primarily a fun, flowy, beginner-intermediate friendly trail network.
So next time you’re in the Franklin area, go spin some pedals and try it for yourself.
