The best road cycling routes in Gile State Forest

If you're looking for a pleasant road cycling experience with lovely views, the Goose Pond – Otter Pond loop from Little Sunapee Associates Forest is a solid choice. This moderate 21.0-mile (33.8 km) route takes you along mostly paved roads, offering scenic vistas of both Goose Pond and Otter Pond. Keep an eye out for local wildlife like ducks and geese as you pedal, making it a relaxing and engaging ride for about 1 hour and 37 minutes, with 1220 feet (372 metres) of elevation gain.

To begin your ride, you'll typically find suitable starting points and parking within the general vicinity of the Little Sunapee Associates Forest in New London, New Hampshire. Since this is a road cycling route, specific trailhead parking might not be designated, so plan to find public parking in the area. Always check your bike before you go and consider the weather, as conditions can change quickly.

This loop is a popular choice for road cyclists in the New London area due to its combination of accessible terrain and natural beauty. The route's moderate difficulty makes it suitable for a wide range of fitness levels, providing an enjoyable way to explore the local ponds and surrounding landscapes. It's a great option if you want a scenic ride without overly challenging climbs.

The Lake Sunapee – Kezar Lake loop offers a delightful road cycling experience through the heart of New Hampshire's scenic lake region. You'll pedal past the shimmering Lake Sunapee shoreline, wind through charming New England villages, and traverse diverse ecosystems within the Sunapee Wildlife Management Area, from dense woodlands to tranquil wetlands. This moderate 22.2-mile (35.7 km) route, with its 1402 feet (427 metres) of elevation gain, is mostly paved and provides a rewarding journey for cyclists who appreciate natural beauty.

Planning your ride is straightforward, with parking typically available in the towns surrounding Lake Sunapee, making it easy to access the starting point near Little Sunapee Associates Forest. While the route is considered moderate and can be completed in about 1 hour and 51 minutes, having good fitness will enhance your enjoyment of the rolling hills. Spring and autumn offer ideal conditions with pleasant temperatures and stunning seasonal colors, though summer provides warm, sunny days for lakeside views.

This road cycling loop stands out for its blend of lakeside vistas and classic New England village charm, making it one of the top rated cycling routes near Sunapee NH. It's an excellent choice if you're looking for a scenic, moderately challenging ride that showcases the region's natural beauty and quaint atmosphere. The varied terrain, though mostly paved, keeps the ride engaging without being overly strenuous, perfect for a satisfying day on two wheels.

This Lake Sunapee – Lake Sunapee Lighthouse loop offers a quintessential New England road cycling experience, guiding you through scenic rural landscapes and alongside the sparkling waters of Lake Sunapee. You'll enjoy continuous lakeside views and pass the distinctive Lake Sunapee Lighthouse, all while navigating rolling hills and expansive forests. The route is primarily on well-paved surfaces, making it a smooth yet engaging ride for road bikes.

Planning your ride around Lake Sunapee is straightforward, though it's good to know that the Little Sunapee Associates Forest trails mentioned in the name are for hiking, not road cycling; this route sticks to paved roads. This moderate 29.1-mile (46.8 km) loop, with 1731 feet (528 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 2 hours and 14 minutes to complete. It's best enjoyed during the warmer months, and you should arrive early for parking, especially on weekends.

The Lake Sunapee region is renowned for its diverse cycling opportunities, from easy touring loops to more challenging climbs, all set against a backdrop of mountains and forests. This particular route provides a fantastic balance of effort and reward, showcasing the area's natural features and offering a memorable journey for cyclists with good fitness. It's a great way to experience the beauty of Merrimack County on two wheels.