Trail Mix Gravel Ride Middle Massachusetts - 32 mi & 100km
Location: Phillipston, MA
Ride Type: Gravel/Mixed Terrain Event Ride
Date & Time: Saturday, May 16
Distance: 32 mi & 100km options
Location: Start and end at Red Apple Farm in Phillipston, MA
Ride Type: Gravel & mixed terrain ride for your gravel, adventure, or mountain bike (any bike with 35mm or wider tires)
Date & Time: Saturday, May 16, 2026
Distance: 32 miles or 100 km options offered
Our 150-mile Extra Salty Trail Mix is happening Saturday, May 9, not on the same day as this event.
All are welcome if you’ve got the basics on bike and gear requirements covered. Your pace is your choice.
Theme: Enjoy a great day of gravel riding for the 100km riders.
Price: 100km: $75 if registered before May 1, $95 after this. Don’t wait until the last minute to register, it may fill up and we don’t want to turn anyone away.
Registration deadline: Wednesday, May 14 at 5:00pm. No exceptions.
Details
We are hosting a really fun day of gravel and mixed terrain riding in the middle of Massachusetts, out of the really nice Red Apple Farm. Red Apple has opened their arms to our rides since the start of the pandemic and they bend over backwards to help us all be comfortable while on their property. Their food is tasty and there’s a big selection of food and drinks including wood fired pizza and tasty brews; their animals are friendly and welcoming too!
This is a great opportunity to get your riding friends together, spend the day on a dirt adventure, enjoy each other’s company, and simply enjoy a nice day out on the bike in an area you probably don’t ride much/at all!
There are options for riders so you get what you want and have a really fun, full day on and off the bike! Here are the basics:
Start with tasty coffee we’ve brewed for you at the start.
Parking is free and ample at the farm. There is water and bathrooms at the start as well. Riders have the farm to ourselves first thing in the morning at Red Apple.
Ride a well-vetted gravel route with your friends, a group of people who have similar speed aspirations for the day as you or ride solo.
Ride in an area without much traffic and where you're probably not riding otherwise.
Finish the ride with tasty, wholesome freshly made warm food, friends, and quality relaxation time. Food and drink are on your own at the end of the ride at Red Apple. This allows you to get what you want and if you would like to bring your own food, that’s fine. This keeps the price of the ride down, you get to eat and drink what you want, and still get a great social atmosphere post-ride. All good things!
Red Apple will be open until 9pm so all riders will be in well before the farm and food closes. Assuming it’s a nice day out, there are picnic tables outside, also plenty of tables inside.
There is no on-bike mechanical support. We're starting riders off with gaps so that slower riders will be passed by faster riders at some point and will allow more overlap which offers visibility for riders throughout the ride. Riders are expected to bring all tools necessary for mechanical situations. Keep reading for recommendations of what to bring with you.
This ride runs rain or shine.
If dangerous weather or forces out of our control cancel the event, we will give you a credit of some portion of your registration toward a future event that we run.
This is a low-budget yet very nicely put together event. We want to offer you a great day on the bike, high quality calories, and it’s a really fun way to start the gravel season. Note that NEER members get some $ off registration based on membership level, so if you become a NEER member prior to May 1, this offers you maximum value.
Refunds: if you tell us 5 or more days in advance that you can’t make it, we’ll give you a credit of 50% of your registration toward one of our future events. Otherwise, you’re welcome to transfer your registration to another rider prior to when registration closes for no additional charge via BikeReg’s rider transfer functionality.
Connect with your gravel riding friends! Make new friends for the season!!
Want to ride with your Friend Group or Ride Solo? Options abound!
Get your friends together and you get your own departure time. You’ll tell us when you register when you want to depart and who you want to ride with. You and your friends can stick together and enjoy this as a group. Or if you want to ride solo, that’s fine too.
Otherwise, we’re assembling groups to ride together based on the pace you sign up for.
Everyone who registers will receive an email by 5pm Thursday, May 9, 2024 (two nights before the ride) with route information and exact start time information along with parking instructions and more.
What You Get
Good communication and group organization, a way to ride in a neat area with others without being alone, having a quality social aspect to riding before and after the ride, know you’re supporting a sweet local farm that offers a comfortable experience!
A well-vetted route.
An opportunity to ride your bike on dirt roads, trails, and random back paved and broken roads.
Any bike that meets minimum tire size requirements (and is safe/tuned up!) is welcome at this ride.
The chance to share the day with your friend group, or ride with a group of people we match up based on expected pace, or ride solo without feeling alone.
No clock: this is not a race, it’s an opportunity to enjoy riding your bike, getting back to gravel and mixed terrain after a long winter. Take the time you want to out there, ride as fast or slow as you wish on the 100km route. Yes, this is a perk of the day. FUN is the idea. There are plenty of great events that have a clock happening this year. This isn’t one of them. We do expect the 150-mile riders to average a bare minimum of 10mph (including stops) only because we want you to get in before sunset!
Post-ride, a happy participant chats with Mary McConneloug on right, 2-time Olympian, who was serving chili at the end of the Brutiful Cape Ride. You never know who you’ll find out at our rides either riding or working!
Get your Friends Together to Ride Together!
We’re offering a separate rollout time for all friend groups so you can start together and stay together. Get your friends together and when you register, tell us their names. Your start time will not be more than 30 minutes different from the start time for the category you register for unless you request a different time.
If you don’t have friends who want to do the ride, that’s fine, we will get riders of similar paces to ride together or you’re welcome to ride solo. We prefer to start solo riders nice and early so you’re seeing others throughout the day and not the last rider out there.
Start Time Requests if different from the category start time
We’re happy to accommodate anyone’s start time requests unless it looks like it’ll get you back too early or too late (meaning you’d miss food or a welcoming committee) so please tell us your requests in your registration information. If you’re riding with a friend group and you request a specific time, we’ll assume everyone in your group is on board with the EARLIEST time requested.
Pace
If you choose to ride with a group of friends you or someone puts together, ride the pace your group prefers! We offer a start time for your group so that you can start separately and stay together.
If you’re riding solo, you’re welcome to ride the pace you want as long as you have time to complete the route before we stop serving food. If you’re wondering about your pace and timing, email us.
If you select to ride with a group of people we assemble, then hopefully those who we match you with are around the same pace. There’s always a risk of the group being a little faster or slower than how you want to ride so come with the route loaded and be prepared. Our rides typically attract people in this category who want to ride with others so people will alter their pace a little to appease others in the group so as to have a pleasant group experience.
Speed Definitions, for those opting in to a group we assemble for this ride
Your pace will be well below these on a longer gravel/mixed terrain ride, but use this as a gauge as to who you are likely to enjoy riding with!
Fun: You usually average ~13-14mph on a road bike, on a paved road ride of 30 miles in length with the usual hilly terrain we find in New England.
Fun Plus : You usually average 15-16mph on a road bike, on a paved road ride of 30 miles in length with the usual hilly terrain we find in New England.
Moderate: You usually average 17mph on a road bike, on a paved road ride of 30 miles in length with the usual hilly terrain we find in New England.
Moderate-Fast: You usually average 18-19mph on a road bike, on a paved road ride of 30 miles in length with the usual hilly terrain we find in New England.
Fast: You usually average 20+mph on a road bike, on a paved road ride of 30 miles in length with the usual hilly terrain we find in New England.
Start Time
Start times that you see when you register are all approximate. We will roll out groups of friends, groups we assemble, and solo riders separately. You'll get an email with exact rollout times by 9pm Thursday prior to the ride.
We expect all riders to be done riding before sunset. People should arrive well before this time.
Distances: 32 miles and 100km
32-mile riders will be given ride food at the start of the ride since they won’t see the the supported food stop along the route.
In the past, we’ve run a 150-mile ride on the same day as these distance options. This year, the 150 mile Extra Salty Trail Mix is happening May 9. See its Ride Page for details if you’d prefer this distance. It will be run a little differently than this ride.
Parking
Parking is in a large dirt lot that is free of charge. It’s a very short ride or ~4-minute walk to the bathrooms/starting area/Brew Barn from where you’ll park. It is very important not to park where Red Apple day visitors park. We send detailed instructions to get into the proper parking lot.
Toilets
Indoor bathrooms are open for all riders. We’ll be set up near these so it’s easy to access them and the person who is organizing the starting groups for roll-out.
Your pre-ride instructions will include specifics as to exactly where to find the toilets and the start location.
Route & Route Notes
The route and detailed instructions will be emailed to all who register no later than 9pm Thursday evening prior to the ride.
Route notes and special things to watch for or to expect are included in the email to riders. We never have you do anything we wouldn’t do ourselves!
We never seek out gratuitous climbs. However, since we’re in central Massachusetts, there will be plenty of climbs and descents, for that matter. Climb at your own pace and hills aren’t as bad!
Elevation: It’s approximately 6,200 ft of elevation gained over the 100km route.
Food & Water During the Ride
We’ll tell you all about this prior to the ride. We have a support person working a food stop mid-ride for the 100km riders. We provide a variety of tasty foods at this location as well as water to refill your bottles. The 100km riders will see the support person once mid-ride.
After the Ride
Enjoy food at the farm, ice cream, drinks on tap, and more. Red Apple has plenty of tables for hanging out together and the farm animals are right there, too. It’s a wonderful atmosphere for spending good time together!
Red Apple has been wonderful to work with throughout the years and they’re really welcoming. We charge less for this ride so that you can purchase what you want from them. They also have a farm store we suggest you check out while you’re there. We want to support their business as much as we can by way of this ride! A lot of the food we provide to you mid-ride is purchased from Red Apple.
FOOD & Drinks Post-Ride
Check out the Red Apple Menu. There is also brick-oven wood-fired PIZZA! (These are two separate businesses at the farm, you can order from your ride and food will be ready for you when you arrive!)
What happens if it’s rainy?
This ride will happen rain or shine. Yes, it’s possible to have a great day out there regardless of rain.
The roads and trails won’t be affected by rain or tires rolling through on them except for possibly adding more puddles for riders to avoid. We aren’t riding sensitive trails or areas where it would be irresponsible for bikes to go when it’s wet.
Last-Minute Information
We will email all participants with any critical late-breaking news via BikeReg.com so make sure you get communications from BikeReg!
Everyone will receive complete ride details before 9pm Thursday evening prior to the ride to their email. If you do not receive an email by 9pm Thursday, please email us so we know you haven’t gotten information. Please do not email prior to 9pm Thursday wondering where your information is because we probably haven’t sent anything to anyone yet and your email will just slow down our ability to release information to everyone.
Contact Information
Email us with questions at connect@newenglandexpeditionriders.com.
CALL US if you need us to know anything just before the ride start or during the ride at 413-461-7433.
Don’t txt if you need an immediate response, all txt msgs go to our email that we aren’t checking if we’re in front of people at the ride or on our bikes. Ring our phone please with urgent anything!!!
Riding Rules
All riders are required to read and are expected to abide by these Rules. Registering for this ride indicates you have read and accept all of the rules. These make the ride safer and more fun for all.
Waiver
The insurance for this ride requires a signed waiver. This will be shared with all who register to sign electronically. Please sign this electronically so we don’t have to fuss with it prior to the ride.
Day-of Registrations and Last-Minute Favors
We would have to charge a lot more for this ride if we needed to pay more people to staff this ride. Therefore, check-in has to be manageable for a single person. Please do not email a few hours before the ride asking for special favors or show up at the ride expecting to ride. It’s not fair to everyone else who registered ahead of time and have followed the rules. If you have a special circumstance, email at least 48 hours before the ride and we’ll work with you.
Proper bike & Equipment
A gravel bike is ideal, though a mountain bike, fat bike or even road bike with 35mm tires or wider is fine if you know you’ll be able to keep the pace you’re signing up for with that bike. Riders with tires on the narrower side will want to ride slower in spots. Ride what you’re comfortable with. You know your skill level and what you’re capable of. Either flat pedals or mountain-style clipless pedals (like Shimano SPD, for instance) should be used, no road pedals/shoes.
Required: A GPS computer with the route loaded ahead of time
Required: A bike that’s in safe working order that has been recently tuned and is free of creaking and squeaking. The chain should be lubed just prior to the ride.
Required: All of the tools for typical mechanicals such as:
Flat fix tools and at least TWO spare tubes (yes, even if you’re running tubeless tires), air via CO2 canisters or hand pump, multi-tool
Very nice to have: Extra chain link, chain breaker, chain pliers
Nice to have: Change of socks if it’s a rainy/wet day
Spare derailleur hanger if your bike needs a spare
Extra clothes and storage capacity so adding/taking off layers is easy
Required: Cell phone and a plan to get back to your car in case your bike or body stops working - we cannot offer rides to anyone (per insurance requirements)
Extra battery and cords so you can plug in your GPS computer and cell phone to charge them in case they need more juice.
Required: Two full water bottles at the start of the ride
Front and rear lights if there is any chance you’ll be riding in the dark or in inclement conditions. Visibility is always a good thing for safety regardless.
Nice to have: Extra calories in your pockets
Change of clothes to wear after the ride so you’re comfy!
Thursday, December 11 - Mixed Terrain Night Ride!
Location: Near Bedford, MA
Ride Type: Mixed Terrain Ride for gravel, mountain & fat bikes
Distance: ~15 miles
Location: Revolution Hall near Bedford, MA
Ride Type: Mixed Terrain Ride for gravel, mountain & fat bikes
Distance: ~15 miles, just shy of 2 hours of riding
Price: Free; see NEER membership requirements discussed below after the first ride you do with us
RSVPs: Required, see bottom of page for RSVP form
Details & Pace
This mixed terrain ride takes cyclists to many interesting trails with roads connecting them.
The route is a mixed terrain route so any bike with 38mm tires or bigger is suited for the terrain. Faster riders are always welcome to go ahead, we discuss how we manage this before the ride starts.
There are some easy-to-ride boardwalks on the route, it’s pretty well ridden so not hard to navigate when the sun is gone.
We have a designated Super Domestique leading the main group. New-to-mixed terrain riders should try our weekend rides first prior to coming out to this ride.
It doesn’t mean much to talk about the average pace of a mixed terrain ride since it sounds a lot slower than it really is. We keep moving at an endurance pace but it’s not fast given the waning sunlight.
There are enough regroups to keep riders together and allow faster and not-as-fast riders to all ride a comfortable pace.
Distance
~15 miles
Parking
Address for your GPS: 10 Maguire Rd, Lexington, MA 02421
Pin of the exact spot to park in the lot: https://maps.app.goo.gl/ebJ1c1ufZA3bL4ZR7
Route
Please download the route on your GPS device, it makes it easier for everyone to know which turn is coming next.
https://ridewithgps.com/routes/40871313
Start time, Estimated Ride Time
Start: 7pm, be ready to roll by 6:55pm
Ride time: Just shy of 2 hours total
Route Notes
We discuss these with you prior to rollout. Note that a “mixed terrain” ride is rougher, twistier, and slower than a “gravel” ride. There are roots, a few boardwalks, etc to navigate. If you’re concerned about your ability to ride mixed terrain, do one of our weekend rides first.
This ride is a good “first” night ride for those who have mixed terrain riding experience but haven’t gone out at night before.
After the Ride
Some riders will enjoy post-ride food and drink at Revolution Hall if riders return before 9pm (food service stops at 9). Feel free to join in having food and hanging out afterwards if you’d like!
Last-Minute Information
We will email all participants with any critical late-breaking news.
Contact Information
Email - connect@newenglandexpeditionriders.com with questions about this ride anytime 1 hour or more prior to the start of the ride.
CALL US if you need us to know anything just before the ride start or during the ride at 413-461-7433.
Don’t txt if you need an immediate response, all txt msgs go to our email that we aren’t checking if we’re in front of people at the ride or on our bikes.
Riding Rules
All riders are required to read and are expected to abide by These Rules.
RSVP’ing to this ride indicates you have read and accept all of the rules. These make the ride safer and more fun for all.
Waiver
NEER requires a signed waiver before your first ride. Please fill it out online prior to your first ride.
If this is your second or more ride with us, our insurance requires that you become a member of NEER.
Proper bike & Equipment
35mm knobby tires minimum. Wider tires are nicer! Tire choice depends on your riding skill set. We expect to see gravel bikes, mountain bikes, and fat bikes at this ride, the majority of bikes will be gravel bikes.
Lights, front and rear. Bring both front and rear lights with battery power to stay lit for a 2.5 hour ride. Correct, the ride is 1.5 hours, but if there’s a mechanical or if you accidentally set it too bright, then you want to still have enough light for the duration of the ride.
Concerning Rear Lights: A super bright and/or flashing rear light will blind the person riding behind you and it actually hurts that person’s eyes and can make it hard for that person to see. Please look into your rear light. If it burns your eyes, get a “group ride friendly” light such as the Super Flash ($25) - it has a steady mode and isn’t too bright.
Clipless pedals and shoes. These are important elements of bike control. If you are an experienced cyclist who has used platform pedals and sticky shoes extensively, this is acceptable. Note that mountain-style pedals/cleats are significantly better than road-style. We strongly discourage road pedals/cleats on a mixed terrain ride. You can possibly get away with road pedals/cleats on a gravel (dirt road) ride, but not a mixed terrain ride.
A bike that’s in safe working order that is properly lubed and tuned. We’ll ask you to call for a ride or take an Uber home if you have a mechanical situation that will hinder the forward progress of the group by more than a few minutes.
High enough tire pressure to prevent pinch flatting and burping your tires.
Be sure you have supplies necessary for all common mechanicals including extra derailleur hangers, a multi-tool, quick chain links, tubes, CO2 or hand pump, etc. You are responsible for you and your bike.
RSVP to Participate in this Ride Now!
Please RSVP only after you’ve made sure you can attend. It is inconsiderate to RSVP prior to committing to attending since it affects the experience of the other cyclists in attendance. We understand that things come up last-minute. Be sure to email us if you can’t attend: connect@newenglandexpeditionriders.com.
New Year’s in Rutland
Date & Time: Thursday, January 1, 9am
Location: Start and end in Hardwick, MA
Ride Type: Gravel, mtb & fat bikes with studded tires
Distance: 64 miles
Start location: Rutland, MA
Ride Type: Studded gravel, mtn & fat bike ride - a lot dirt
Date & Time: 9am Thursday, January 1
Distance: 60 miles total
Price: Free*
* You are welcome to ride once as a non-NEER member, after this membership is required to attend
RSVPs: Required, form is at the bottom
Details
This ride departs at 9am. The route runs all through Rutland with almost all of it on trails. There are lots of ways to cut it early if needed. BE SURE to bring lights. With the cold, expect ice. Bring plenty of water and food. There will be at least one refueling stop, but on New Year’s Day, it’s a good idea to assume small businesses will be closed. We’ll use cars as a refuel location if it’s not possible to find food in the world.
Schedule
We’ll be at the parking lot by 8:45am. Please be ready to roll by 8:55am.
Parking
There is free all day, all who RSVP will be sent directions to the lot.
Route
The route will be shared via email with all who RSVP.
Estimated time
It will be ~8 hours.
Lunch Stop
Will be communicated in the pre-ride email.
Contact Information
Email - connect@rideheadquaters.com, Phone which reaches the ride leader before and during the ride: 413-461-7433
Riding Rules, What to Bring, How Our Rides are Different
All riders are required to read and are expected to abide by These Rules.
Waiver
We require a signed waiver before your first ride with NEER. Please fill it out online prior to your first ride.
The proper bike & equipment for this ride includes the following:
Bike with 38mm minimum width tires, studded tires are required.
Bring front and rear lights, there is a very good chance we’ll finish up after dark. Ensure batteries are fresh and will last for a minimum of 3 hours on a warm day (batteries last less long in the cold).
A bike that’s in safe working order that is properly lubed and tuned. You’ll need to find a ride back to the lot if you have a mechanical situation that will hinder the forward progress of the group by more than a few minutes.
Always bring a spare tube, air, tools for taking your wheels off your bike, a derailleur hanger and ALL of the tools you’d need to fix common mechanical situations.
Bring warmer clothes than you think you’ll need & storage area to take layers off/carry them!
Saturday, Dec 6 - Massachusetts’ Global Fat Bike Day!! Adventure Ride
Location: Hingham, MA
Ride Type: Fat Bike Ride
Distance: 40 or 70 miles
Location: Start and end in Wompatuck State Park, Hingham, MA
Ride Type: Trails, Beaches, Roads on Fat Bikes
Date & Time: Saturday, December 6, 2025 8am start*
Distance: We have OPTIONS! ~40 and ~70 miles (bring lights!)*
Price: $0 - if this is your first ride with NEER, it’s no charge, come on out! If you’ve ridden with NEER previously, please become a member, it’s required of our insurance.
RSVPs: Required, see bottom of page for RSVP form
Details
This is a fat bike adventure ride! It’s got a little of all of the fun riding and a whole lot of adventure to look forward to. It’s a big day on the fat bike, come well prepared for a big day! There are quality beaches, sand, trails, back roads. A whole lot of everything.
* We reserve the right to shift start times & change route lengths based on conditions for the day.
Raffle! Win $350 in Cold Weather Goodies
All riders who show up to this ride will be entered into a raffle that will be held prior to rollout! Fat-bike and winter-specific items will be raffled.
The raffle Grand Prize is these sweet pedals and studded boot system from 9point8 out of Canada! Other items include:
NEER Wool Neck Warmer - 2 will be raffled! $60 value each
45NRTH Draugenklaw drop bar pogies - 1 set, $85 value
NEER members receive an extra entry each to this raffle!
Pace
This ride is suitable for people with good fitness to push your fat tires all day long! The average pace will be ~8mph for the stronger riders. This is not slow when you’re on a fat bike.
We are offering a “fun” pace for those wanting a less intense day or riders who are newer to their fat bike. This pace is offered for the 40-mile version only considering this is still a big day in the saddle.
Distance & Estimated Ride Time
Allow 9-10 hours for this ride for the 70-mile version, depending on your pace. We’ll break up into groups if that allows everyone to get the ride of his/her desires, but only if we have > 10 riders or people at different paces.
The 40-mile route is a ~5.5 hour ride for stronger riders, 6.5 hours for less strong riders so still a big day at this time of year!
Food and Drink During the Ride
There are good cafes and places to fill up water bottles and eat calories on the route. Riders should bring the equivalent of 2 x 26 ounces of water and extra calories as you would on any long ride, but expect to have enough places to stop (and warm up!) on the way for both route options.
Parking
Parking is free and ample at the Wompatuck parking lot. Details will be shared with all who RSVP no later than 7pm the evening before the ride.
Route
The routes will be emailed to all who RSVP no later than 7pm the night before the ride.
Route Notes
Expect everything on this ride! Beaches, paved roads, plenty of fun trails, nothing too technical, but lots of fun.
After the Ride
Bring something to eat for post-ride. Also bring a change of clothes for the drive home! Since we aren’t charging, we aren’t staffing the finish of the ride or providing food.
Last-Minute Information
We will email all participants with any critical late-breaking news.
Contact Information
Email - connect@newenglandexpeditionriders.com with questions about this ride anytime 1 hour or more prior to the start of the ride.
CALL US if you need us to know anything just before the ride start or during the ride at 413-461-7433.
Don’t txt if you need an immediate response, all txt msgs go to our email that we aren’t checking if we’re in front of people at the ride or on our bikes.
Riding Rules
All riders are required to read and are expected to abide by These Rules. RSVP’ing to this ride indicates you have read and accept all of the rules. These make the ride safer and more fun for all.
Waiver
NEER requires a signed waiver before your first ride. Please fill it out online prior to your first ride.
Proper bike & Equipment
3.5” knobby tires OR BIGGER. Wider tires are nicer! We’ll be on some beaches so mountain bikes don’t have wide enough tires for these sections. Besides, it’s Global Fat Bike Day! Studded tires are fine. There are paved sections, these won’t be bad or unsafe for studded tires, it’s just louder.
All 70-mile (long route) riders MUST bring front and rear lights to see and be seen for 2+ hours. The ride will finish in the dark.
Enough food and water to be hydrated and satisfied in between food stops. This should mean 2 x 26 ounce bottles + 2 food bars/equivalent.
Bring money for food, there are cafe and food stops on the routes.
A bike that’s in safe working order that is properly lubed and tuned. We’ll ask you to call for a ride or take an Uber home if you have a mechanical situation that will hinder the forward progress of the group by more than a few minutes.
High enough tire pressure to prevent pinch flatting and burping your tires. Some of the beach riding may involve riding on rocks, and there are paved roads connecting the beaches and trails.
Be sure you have supplies necessary for all common mechanicals including extra derailleur hangers, a multi-tool, quick chain links, tubes, CO2 or hand pump, etc. You are responsible for you and your bike. Have a plan if your legs or bike stop working so you can get home.
Register to Participate in Global Fat Bike Day Massachusetts 2025 Now!
If you can’t make it, we just ask that you let us know (email connect@newenglandexpeditionriders.com) so we aren’t looking for you at the start or during the day.
Super Full Moon this Thursday, Dec 4, 7pm: Mixed Terrain Ride
Location: Start and end Mighty Squirrel
Distance: ~15 miles, 2 hours
Kind of bike: gravel, hard-tail mtn, fat
Location: Mighty Squirrel, Waltham, MA
Ride Type: Mixed Terrain Ride for gravel, mountain & fat bikes
Date & Time: Every other Thursday in December: December 4 & 18 (the other Thursday rides in December start at Revolution Hall)
Distance: ~15 miles, 2 full hours of riding
Price: Free; see NEER membership requirements discussed below after the first ride you do with us
RSVPs: Required, see bottom of page for RSVP form
Details & Pace
This mixed terrain ride takes cyclists to many interesting trails with roads connecting them.
The route is a mixed terrain route so any bike with 40mm tires or bigger is suited for the terrain. This route is not appropriate for people who don’t have mixed terrain riding skills or night ride experience. The Revolution Hall rides that we host are more appropriate for those just getting into mixed terrain and night riding.
There are rocks, roots, boardwalks, road crossings, and short sections of road to ride. Leaves can be wet and slippery whether or not it just rained.
We have a designated Super Domestique leading the main group. New-to-mixed terrain riders should try our weekend rides first prior to coming out to this ride.
It doesn’t mean much to talk about the average pace of a mixed terrain ride since it sounds a lot slower than it really is. We keep moving at an endurance pace but it’s not fast given it’s dark out. We have to stay moving since it’s cold so come prepared.
Distance
~15 miles
Parking
Address for your GPS: 411 Waverley Oaks Rd, Waltham, MA 02452
Pin of the exact spot to park in the lot - it’s not next to the Mighty Squirrel since that’s for customers: https://maps.app.goo.gl/7EWmn2YTh66Nj2Xj6
Route
Please download the route on your GPS device, it makes it easier for everyone to know which turn is coming next.
All who RSVP will receive the route in your inbox the morning of the ride.
Start time, Estimated Ride Time
Start: 7pm, be ready to roll by 6:55pm
Ride time: Expect this to take a full 2 hours.
After the Ride
Mighty Squirrel is open and they serve beer, hot (large) pretzels, chips and guac, that sort of cuisine. It’s fun to hang out for a few minutes post-ride if riders are up for it. Ride leader will always be up for post-ride hangs!
Last-Minute Information
We will email all participants with any critical late-breaking news.
Contact Information
Email - connect@newenglandexpeditionriders.com with questions about this ride anytime 1 hour or more prior to the start of the ride.
CALL US if you need us to know anything just before the ride start or during the ride at 413-461-7433.
Don’t txt if you need an immediate response, all txt msgs go to our email that we aren’t checking if we’re in front of people at the ride or on our bikes.
Riding Rules
All riders are required to read and are expected to abide by These Rules.
RSVP’ing to this ride indicates you have read and accept all of the rules. These make the ride safer and more fun for all.
Waiver
NEER requires a signed waiver before your first ride. Please fill it out online prior to your first ride.
If this is your second or more ride with us, our insurance requires that you become a member of NEER.
Proper bike & Equipment
40mm knobby tires minimum. Wider tires are nicer! Tire choice depends on your riding skill set. We expect to see gravel bikes, mountain bikes, and fat bikes at this ride, the majority of bikes will be gravel bikes.
Lights, front and rear. Bring both front and rear lights with battery power to stay lit for a 2.5 hour ride. Correct, the ride is 1.5 hours, but if there’s a mechanical or if you accidentally set it too bright, then you want to still have enough light for the duration of the ride.
Concerning Rear Lights: A super bright and/or flashing rear light will blind the person riding behind you and it actually hurts that person’s eyes and can make it hard for that person to see. Please look into your rear light. If it burns your eyes, get a “group ride friendly” light such as the Super Flash ($25) - it has a steady mode and isn’t too bright.
Clipless pedals and shoes. These are important elements of bike control. If you are an experienced cyclist who has used platform pedals and sticky shoes extensively, this is acceptable. Note that mountain-style pedals/cleats are significantly better than road-style. We strongly discourage road pedals/cleats on a mixed terrain ride. You can possibly get away with road pedals/cleats on a gravel (dirt road) ride, but not a mixed terrain ride.
A bike that’s in safe working order that is properly lubed and tuned. We’ll ask you to call for a ride or take an Uber home if you have a mechanical situation that will hinder the forward progress of the group by more than a few minutes.
High enough tire pressure to prevent pinch flatting and burping your tires. Ask us if you’re not sure where to set your tire pressure.
Be sure you have supplies necessary for all common mechanicals including extra derailleur hangers, a multi-tool, quick chain links, tubes, CO2 or hand pump, etc. You are responsible for you and your bike.
RSVP to Participate in this Ride Now!
Please RSVP only after you’ve made sure you can attend. It is inconsiderate to RSVP prior to committing to attending since it affects the experience of the other cyclists in attendance. We understand that things come up last-minute. Be sure to email us if you can’t attend: connect@newenglandexpeditionriders.com.
Thursday, Dec 18, 7pm: Mixed Terrain Night Ride
Location: Start and end Mighty Squirrel
Distance: ~15 miles, 2 hours
Kind of bike: gravel, hard-tail mtn, fat
Location: Mighty Squirrel, Waltham, MA
Ride Type: Mixed Terrain Ride for gravel, mountain & fat bikes
Date & Time: Thursday, December 18, 7pm start
Distance: ~15 miles, 2 full hours of riding
Price: Free; see NEER membership requirements discussed below after the first ride you do with us
RSVPs: Required, see bottom of page for RSVP form
Details & Pace
This mixed terrain ride takes cyclists to many interesting trails with roads connecting them.
The route is a mixed terrain route so any bike with 40mm tires or bigger is suited for the terrain. This route is not appropriate for people who don’t have mixed terrain riding skills or night ride experience. The Revolution Hall rides that we host are more appropriate for those just getting into mixed terrain and night riding.
There are rocks, roots, boardwalks, road crossings, and short sections of road to ride. Leaves can be wet and slippery whether or not it just rained.
We have a designated Super Domestique leading the main group. New-to-mixed terrain riders should try our weekend rides first prior to coming out to this ride.
It doesn’t mean much to talk about the average pace of a mixed terrain ride since it sounds a lot slower than it really is. We keep moving at an endurance pace but it’s not fast given it’s dark out. We have to stay moving since it’s cold so come prepared.
Distance
~15 miles
Parking
Address for your GPS: 411 Waverley Oaks Rd, Waltham, MA 02452
Pin of the exact spot to park in the lot - it’s not next to the Mighty Squirrel since that’s for customers: https://maps.app.goo.gl/7EWmn2YTh66Nj2Xj6
Route
Please download the route on your GPS device, it makes it easier for everyone to know which turn is coming next.
All who RSVP will receive the route in your inbox the morning of the ride.
Start time, Estimated Ride Time
Start: 7pm, be ready to roll by 6:55pm
Ride time: Expect this to take a full 2 hours.
After the Ride
Mighty Squirrel is open and they serve beer, hot (large) pretzels, chips and guac, that sort of cuisine. It’s fun to hang out for a few minutes post-ride if riders are up for it. Ride leader will always be up for post-ride hangs!
Last-Minute Information
We will email all participants with any critical late-breaking news.
Contact Information
Email - connect@newenglandexpeditionriders.com with questions about this ride anytime 1 hour or more prior to the start of the ride.
CALL US if you need us to know anything just before the ride start or during the ride at 413-461-7433.
Don’t txt if you need an immediate response, all txt msgs go to our email that we aren’t checking if we’re in front of people at the ride or on our bikes.
Riding Rules
All riders are required to read and are expected to abide by These Rules.
RSVP’ing to this ride indicates you have read and accept all of the rules. These make the ride safer and more fun for all.
Waiver
NEER requires a signed waiver before your first ride. Please fill it out online prior to your first ride.
If this is your second or more ride with us, our insurance requires that you become a member of NEER.
Proper bike & Equipment
40mm knobby tires minimum. Wider tires are nicer! Tire choice depends on your riding skill set. We expect to see gravel bikes, mountain bikes, and fat bikes at this ride, the majority of bikes will be gravel bikes.
Lights, front and rear. Bring both front and rear lights with battery power to stay lit for a 2.5 hour ride. Correct, the ride is 1.5 hours, but if there’s a mechanical or if you accidentally set it too bright, then you want to still have enough light for the duration of the ride.
Concerning Rear Lights: A super bright and/or flashing rear light will blind the person riding behind you and it actually hurts that person’s eyes and can make it hard for that person to see. Please look into your rear light. If it burns your eyes, get a “group ride friendly” light such as the Super Flash ($25) - it has a steady mode and isn’t too bright.
Clipless pedals and shoes. These are important elements of bike control. If you are an experienced cyclist who has used platform pedals and sticky shoes extensively, this is acceptable. Note that mountain-style pedals/cleats are significantly better than road-style. We strongly discourage road pedals/cleats on a mixed terrain ride. You can possibly get away with road pedals/cleats on a gravel (dirt road) ride, but not a mixed terrain ride.
A bike that’s in safe working order that is properly lubed and tuned. We’ll ask you to call for a ride or take an Uber home if you have a mechanical situation that will hinder the forward progress of the group by more than a few minutes.
High enough tire pressure to prevent pinch flatting and burping your tires. Ask us if you’re not sure where to set your tire pressure.
Be sure you have supplies necessary for all common mechanicals including extra derailleur hangers, a multi-tool, quick chain links, tubes, CO2 or hand pump, etc. You are responsible for you and your bike.
RSVP to Participate in this Ride Now!
Please RSVP only after you’ve made sure you can attend. It is inconsiderate to RSVP prior to committing to attending since it affects the experience of the other cyclists in attendance. We understand that things come up last-minute. Be sure to email us if you can’t attend: connect@newenglandexpeditionriders.com.
Myles Standish Fat Fun + Extra Ride Option on fun MTB Trails
Location: Myles Standish and Carolina Hill
Ride Type: Fat Bike Ride
Date & Time: Sunday, November 23
Distance: 2 hours, then 2+ hours
Price: Free
RSVPs: Required, see bottom of page for RSVP form
Location: Myles Standish for part 1, Carolina Hill for part 2
Ride Type: Pine Barrons, sandy trails, hilly terrain
Date & Time: Sunday, November 23, need to be there by 9:20am, rolling at 10am
Distance: ~2 hours of riding, 18 miles first part, 2-3 hours for optional part B
Price: Free; see NEER membership requirements discussed below after the first ride you do with us
RSVPs: Required, see bottom of page for RSVP form
Details
This is a fat bike wonder ride on different terrain! David Farrell of SE NEMBA is leading the Myles Standish portion of the ride. After it concludes in 18 miles and ~2 hours of riding, those who wish for more will continue to Carolina Hill for a whole lot of fun trails and exploration there. David describes the trails as one of the best fat bike trails you have ever been on!! Myles Standish State Forest is the third largest WORLD of Pine Barren of pitch pines, sandy, and infertile soil.
Pace
This ride is suitable for people who are fit enough for climbing and pushing their fat bikes on sand. It will not be a fast pace at all.
Start Time
9:20m - David has requested riders be here by 9:20 for discussion of the trails
10:00am - Wheels roll
Parking
DCR PARK
194 Cranberry Road Carver MA
Better directions will be emailed to all who RSVP for this.
Route
Everyone will stay together, no route will be shared for either part of the ride. Frequent re-groups will happen, no one will be lost or dropped.
Route Notes
Expect sand and 800’ of elevation gain total.
Last-Minute Information
We will email all participants with any critical late-breaking news.
Contact Information
Email - connect@newenglandexpeditionriders.com with questions about this ride anytime 1 hour or more prior to the start of the ride.
CALL US if you need us to know anything just before the ride start or during the ride at 413-461-7433.
Don’t txt if you need an immediate response, all txt msgs go to our email that we aren’t checking if we’re in front of people at the ride or on our bikes.
Riding Rules
All riders are required to read and are expected to abide by These Rules. RSVP’ing to this ride indicates you have read and accept all of the rules. These make the ride safer and more fun for all.
Waiver
NEER requires a signed waiver before your first ride. Please fill it out online prior to your first ride.
If this is your second or more ride with us, our insurance requires that you become a member of NEER.
Proper bike & Equipment
3.8” knobby tires OR BIGGER. Wider tires are nicer! We’ll be on beaches so mountain bikes don’t have wide enough tires for these sections.
A bike that’s in safe working order that is properly lubed and tuned. We’ll ask you to call for a ride or take an Uber home if you have a mechanical situation that will hinder the forward progress of the group by more than a few minutes.
High enough tire pressure to prevent pinch flatting and burping your tires. 8psi is usually max for fat tires, you’ll probably be happier somewhere around 6psi depending on the width of your tires and your weight.
Be sure you have supplies necessary for all common mechanicals including extra derailleur hangers, a multi-tool, quick chain links, tubes, CO2 or hand pump, etc. You are responsible for you and your bike.
RSVP to Participate in this Ride Now!
Please RSVP only after you’ve made sure you can attend. It is inconsiderate to RSVP prior to committing to attending since it affects the experience of the other cyclists in attendance. We understand that things come up last-minute. Be sure to email us if you can’t attend: connect@newenglandexpeditionriders.com.
Saturday Mixed Terrain Ride East!
Location: Start and end Revolution Hall
Ride Type: Mixed Terrain
Date & Time: Saturday, November 22, 2025 9am
Distance: 48 miles
Price: Free
RSVPs: Required, see bottom of page for RSVP form
Location: Start and end near Bedford, MA
Ride Type: Mixed Terrain Ride for gravel bikes, hardtail mountain bikes, fat bikes
Date & Time: Saturday, November 22 9am start
Distance: 48 miles
Price: Free; see NEER membership requirements discussed below after the first ride you do with us
RSVPs: Required, see bottom of page for RSVP form
Details
This mixed-terrain ride leads cyclists to many back roads, plenty of dirt paths and trails for a total of 48 miles. The route heads east and takes in a lot of excellent mixed terrain along the way in addition to fun connecting roads.
The route is mixed terrain so any gravel bike with 40mm tires or bigger is suited for the terrain. Bigger tires are BETTER with leaves on the trails. We’ll split into two speed groups: quicker moderate and endurance moderate. If you want to ride at a lower pace than “endurance,” please send us an email!
We have a designated Super Domestique leading the endurance moderate group to depart, she’ll be riding a gravel bike with humongous tires.
Pace: endurance zone 2-3 for most cyclists - if you can average 15/16mph on a road bike on a paved road for 4+ hours, you’ll be fit enough for this ride. The pace on a mixed terrain ride is much slower than a road ride so expect the ride to take ~5 hours to complete, possibly more.
Distance
The ride is 48 miles in length.
Parking
In the large parking lot for offices just across from Revolution Hall:
3 Maguire Rd, Lexington, MA 02421
Route
The route will be emailed to all who RSVP no later than 7pm the night before this ride.
Estimated Ride Time
~5+ hours
Route Notes
We discuss these with you prior to rollout.
Last-Minute Information
We will email all participants with any critical late-breaking news.
Contact Information
Email - connect@newenglandexpeditionriders.com with questions about this ride anytime 1 hour or more prior to the start of the ride.
CALL US if you need us to know anything just before the ride start or during the ride at 413-461-7433.
Don’t txt if you need an immediate response, all txt msgs go to our email that we aren’t checking if we’re in front of people at the ride or on our bikes.
Riding Rules
All riders are required to read and are expected to abide by These Rules. RSVP’ing to this ride indicates you have read and accept all of the rules. These make the ride safer and more fun for all.
Waiver
New England Expedition Riders requires a signed waiver before your first ride. Please fill it out online prior to your first ride.
If this is your second or more ride with us, our insurance requires that you become a member of NEER.
Proper bike & Equipment
40mm knobby tires. Wider tires are nicer! Don’t forget there are leaves covering hiding rocks and sticks on the trails. Tire choice depends on your riding skill set. Gravel bikes are best suited for most of the terrain. Do NOT ride road tires since you’ll be flatting out there.
Clipless pedals and shoes. These are important elements of bike control. If you are an experienced cyclist who has used platform pedals and sticky shoes extensively, this is acceptable. Note that mountain-style pedals/cleats are significantly better than road-style. We strongly discourage road pedals/cleats on a mixed terrain ride. You can possibly get away with road pedals/cleats on a gravel (dirt road) ride, but not a mixed terrain ride.
A bike that’s in safe working order that is properly lubed and tuned. We’ll ask you to call for a ride or take an Uber home if you have a mechanical situation that will hinder the forward progress of the group by more than a few minutes.
High enough tire pressure to prevent pinch flatting and burping your tires.
Be sure you have supplies necessary for all common mechanicals including extra derailleur hangers, a multi-tool, quick chain links, tubes, CO2 or hand pump, etc. You are responsible for you and your bike.
RSVP to Participate in this Ride Now!
Please RSVP only after you’ve made sure you can attend. It is inconsiderate to RSVP prior to committing to attending since it affects the experience of the other cyclists in attendance. We understand that things come up last-minute. Be sure to email us if you can’t attend: connect@newenglandexpeditionriders.com.
January 16-18: Three Day Hut-to-Hut Fat Bike Adventure Ride
Location: Carrabassett Valley, Maine, staying in huts
Ride Type: Multiple-day fat bike adventure ride
A catered weekend and opportunity for ultra endurance winter fat bike riders to test equipment
Ride Type: Fat bike hut trip
Date & Time: Friday, January 16-Sunday, January 18 (3 days, 2 nights)
Location: Carrabassett Valley, Maine, where the snow is the best and trails allow for incredible riding
Distance each day: Conditions dictate, options will be offered. Long ride option for Saturday of 40-50 miles.
Price: $450 per person. Open to NEER members due to insurance requirements. See what’s included, below.
Register now!
Details
This is a fun and potentially demanding fat bike 3-day adventure riding incredible trails in Carrabassett Valley, a winter wonderland, and staying in nice huts to go further and see more!
The huts are full service offering freshly prepared, hot breakfasts and dinners accommodating all dietary needs of participants. Lunch is either at the hut or they pack it so riders can enjoy lunch in the wild.
Included in the price is stuff-schelpping from parking lot to the first hut, then from one hut to the next, then getting your stuff back to your car at the end of the trip. This allows you to enjoy riding with only the things you need for the day, not sleeping bag, toiletries, and your change of clothes.
Read about what to expect at the huts!
We have 9 spaces reserved for attendees and 2 are already spoken for. We expect to sell out and have a waiting list. We have to have a firm commitment via full payment the first week in December since we have to pay in full to the huts the first week in December.
The first night, we’ll be at lovely Stratton Hut.
The second night, we’ll be at secluded, private Flagstaff Hut.
Distance and pace
Ride at your own pace. Fat bike riding in the snow is slow for the fittest riders. Everyone will start and end at the same places each day and night for camaraderie and we expect enough people of various fitness levels so that everyone will have company out there. There is one designated trip organizer/ride leader who will likely be riding a fully loaded bike allowing for slower riders to have company. Route options will be shared with participants for each day (a shorter and longer option), so everyone is welcome to take on the distances that are comfortable for each person. Saturday’s minimum distance requirement is 20 miles to travel from the first hut to the second hut. There will be a long option of 40-50 miles for those who want a big day of riding.
Schedule
Exact timing of activities and rides will be emailed to everyone a few days prior to the start of the trip. Snow conditions will be factored into route lengths and will be adjusted as appropriate.
Friday - Meet up at 9:30am, at parking lot where cars can spend the weekend, drop overnight stuff off
10am - Ride starts
Arrive Stratton Brook Hut, enjoy a hot shower!
Enjoy a hot, hearty Dinner prepared by hut staff
Saturday -
7:30am - Enjoy a hot, hearty Breakfast prepared by hut staff
Ride 8:30am - Long - 40-50 mile
10am - Shorter - 20 miles (this isn’t short!)
Enjoy sack lunch hut staff prepared on the trail!
Arrive Flagstaff Hut before dinner
6-6:30pm - Enjoy a hot Dinner prepared by hut staff
Sunday -
7:30am - Enjoy a hot, hearty breakfast prepared by hut staff
Ride - 9am - it’s ~15 miles to return to cars / longer option available
Enjoy the sack lunch hut staff prepared on the trail!
Monday is the Martin Luther King, Jr holiday so hopefully you don’t have to rush home Sunday night!
Are you training for an ultra winter cycling event?
If you’re an ultra winter cyclist preparing for future ultra events and want the challenge of sleeping outside in a bivvy and want to self-support (ie bringing and making most/all food on the trail), this is an option! You can still take advantage of the gear shuttle to get extra stuff to the huts and have stuff moved from one hut to the next to transport extra food and any extra gear you think you might want. This is an option at the bottom of the page where registration links appear.
Parking
Airport Trailhead. All attendees will receive driving directions to this parking lot. This is where you’ll bring your stuff so it can be transported to the first hut.
Routes
All routes will be emailed in advance of the weekend.
Complete Information
We will email all participants with full details at least 2 days prior to the trip, including routes of shorter and longer options. Please don’t hesitate to ask questions via email or txt.
If you need to arrive later on Friday and your stuff will miss the gear shuttle, we can arrange for you to get us your stuff prior to the trip (in the Boston area) and we’ll bring it up early so that it makes it to the hut.
Contact Information
Email - connect@newenglandexpeditionriders.com with questions about this ride.
CALL US if you need us to know anything just before the ride start or during the ride at 413-461-7433.
Don’t txt if you need an immediate response, all txt msgs go to our email that we aren’t checking if we’re in front of people at the ride or on our bikes.
Our Super Domestique rides with a Garmin InReach in case of emergency that is out of cell phone range. We do this to facilitate rider safety. If you’re not riding with the Super Domestique, we ask that you follow the proposed route for the day and let us know if you’re planning on doing something different for safety. We always want to know where you are!
Preparation
This is unlike our other rides. It’s very important to come prepared with all necessary equipment and have a bike that is tuned and completely ready for what this ride entails. Clothing appropriate for the temperatures is important and remember that overheating on very cold days can happen so layers are important. Everyone who registers will receive a packing list and guidance on proper gear.
Waiver
NEER requires a signed waiver before your first ride. Please fill it out online prior to your first ride.
Proper bike & Equipment
Fat bike with tires 3.8” or wider.
A bike that’s in safe working order that is properly lubed and fully tuned up by a professional mechanic. Have a plan in case your bike or legs stop working. Note there are a lot of dead cell phone areas in the areas where we’ll be riding.
All necessary equipment and supplies - we’ll email a comprehensive list so you know what is necessary well ahead of time. This list includes bringing a sleeping bag (summer weight is fine) for sleeping in the hut beds.
Lights - front and rear, back up lights and back-up batteries (cold batteries don’t work like warm ones do)
Optional and fun! Stove - ability to make water from snow in cold temps
Register Now
All spots are spoken for, but if you sign up for the waitlist, there’s always a chance someone who has committed can’t make it so you’ll be the first to know if this happens.