The best road cycling routes around Kittery

There are over 100 road cycling routes around Kittery, offering a diverse range of options for cyclists. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars.

Yes, Kittery offers many easy road cycling routes. Over 50 routes are classified as easy, providing gentle terrain suitable for beginners and families. An example is the Odiorne Point – Ocean Boulevard / Route 1A loop from Portsmouth, which features scenic coastal views on a relatively flat path.

Kittery's road cycling routes feature a blend of coastal and riverfront scenery. You can expect panoramic vistas of the Atlantic Ocean, the Piscataqua River, and the iconic rocky shoreline. Routes often navigate coastal roads, historic sites, and connect to broader trail networks, offering varied terrain from flat stretches to gentle inclines.

While Kittery is known for its accessible routes, there are options for those seeking more challenge. The region includes nearly 50 moderate routes and a few difficult ones. For a moderate challenge, consider the Perkins Cove – Fort McClary loop from Portsmouth, which covers over 34 miles through coastal landscapes.

Kittery's routes offer numerous scenic viewpoints. You can enjoy stunning ocean views along coastal roads like Ocean Boulevard / Route 1A. Historic sites such as Fort McClary are often incorporated into routes, providing a glimpse into the region's past. Other highlights include the Fort Foster pier and various viewpoints along the Piscataqua River.

Yes, many of Kittery's road cycling routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. A popular option is the Downtown Portsmouth to River Road loop via Main Street Causeway, which connects Kittery Foreside with Portsmouth and offers river views.

Yes, Kittery marks the starting point of the Eastern Trail, a scenic 65-mile signed bike route that extends north into Maine. This trail incorporates both off-road sections and established on-road bicycle routes, making it a great option for longer excursions and connecting to broader networks.

The spring, summer, and fall months generally offer the best conditions for road biking in Kittery. The coastal climate provides pleasant temperatures, and the vibrant foliage in autumn adds an extra layer of beauty to the scenic routes. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.

Absolutely. Kittery's location at the mouth of the Piscataqua River means many routes connect to neighboring Portsmouth, New Hampshire. The Memorial Bridge is accessible to cyclists and offers exceptional views. Routes like the Downtown Portsmouth to River Road loop are excellent examples of rides that bridge the two areas.

Parking is available at various points throughout Kittery and its surrounding areas, often near popular attractions or trailheads. For example, there is a designated parking area for Wallis Sands Beach, which can serve as a starting point for coastal rides. Many local parks and public access points also offer parking facilities.

Beyond the well-known Ocean Boulevard / Route 1A, cyclists can explore other picturesque coastal roads. Route 103 (Pepperrell Road) leads to Fort Foster Park and offers stunning waterfront views. You can also venture north along winding back roads towards York, Maine, or south along New Hampshire's scenic coastal road (Route 1A) through towns like Rye and Hampton for extended coastal rides.

Yes, Kittery's rich history is reflected in its cycling routes. Many paths will take you past significant landmarks. For instance, the Fort McClary – Long Sands Beach loop from Portsmouth passes by the historic Fort McClary State Historic Site, which stood guard from the Revolution through World War I.