The best road cycling routes in Fox State Forest
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30
riders
5
rides
Road cycling in Fox State Forest, located in Hillsborough County, New Hampshire, offers routes that traverse diverse natural landscapes. The area features varied terrain, including sections that may be unpaved, requiring consideration for bike type. While the forest is known for its extensive trail system, traditional paved road cycling within its immediate boundaries is limited, with many routes incorporating gravel or forest access roads. The surrounding region provides a mix of roads that connect natural features and historical points of…
Last updated: June 29, 2026
2
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
1
riders
92.7km
04:12
1,040m
1,040m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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1
riders
35.3km
01:38
420m
420m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
2
riders
16.2km
00:53
300m
300m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(2)
6
riders
57.6km
03:00
550m
550m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
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Popular around Fox State Forest
Tips from the Community
Washington, New Hampshire, is a quaint and charming town located along the Monadnock-Sunapee Greenway (MSG) trail, offering a convenient and welcoming place for hikers to rest and resupply. About 13.5 miles north of the Crider Forest Shelter, the General Washington Shelter—built in 1983 and the oldest on the trail—provides a natural stopping point. From there, many hikers make the short walk (about a third of a mile) into Washington Center to visit the Washington General Store at 29 North Main Street. This family-owned store has served the community for over 20 years and is known for its hearty breakfast and lunch offerings, including pancakes, local eggs, sandwiches, burgers, and made-to-order pizzas. It also stocks cold beer, wine, local gifts, and essential supplies, making it a one-stop shop for trail users. The store is open Monday through Thursday from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m., Friday and Saturday until 8 p.m., and Sunday until 4 p.m.
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Fox State Forest covers an area of 1,445 acres and includes the Henry I. Baldwin Forestry Education Center and a farmhouse that serves as its headquarters. The forest boasts a well-established trail system that spans approximately 22 miles (35.41 km), popular year-round by outdoor enthusiasts, including hikers, cross-country skiers, snowshoers, and mountain bikers. The tall trees that line this stretch of road are fantastic and are a great addition to the scenery in this beautiful area.
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The views of tall pines lining the road on both side is fantastic, and provides a lovely backdrop to the smooth, straight and fast road. Perfect for getting the pace up.
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The Ausbon Sargent Land Preservation has protected a total of 13,546 acres, 166 properties, and over 8.70 miles of shorefront, including over 4,700 feet of frontage on Lake Sunapee. The organization was founded in 1987 and today has over 1000 members dedicated to the cause. Ride by and enjoy the forests put aside for future generations.
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This bridge spans the Contocook river and is surrounded by a range of beautiful pine trees. It makes a lovely spot for a photo along your ride.
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The Waterloo Covered Bridge is a stunning example of a covered bridge, and it is in one of the better settings. Located near the town of Warner, it carries Newmarket Road over the Warner River near Waterloo Falls. Built in 1859–60, it is one of the few surviving New Hampshire 19th-century lattice truss-covered bridges and has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
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Washington is a lovely place to ride through, with a fair share of historic buildings to marvel at, such as the Town Hall and the first Seventh Day Adventist Church. It lays claim to be the first settlement named after the President, George Washington. There is a General Store in the town if you need any supplies.
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Washington is a lovely place to ride through, with a fair share of historic buildings to marvel at, such as the Town Hall and the first Seventh Day Adventist Church. It lays claim to be the first settlement named after the President, George Washington. There is a General Store in the town if you need any supplies.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect when road cycling in Fox State Forest?
While the area is listed for road cycling, many routes within and around Fox State Forest incorporate unpaved sections, gravel roads, or forest access roads. Traditional paved road cycling within the immediate forest boundaries is limited. These routes are often more suitable for gravel bikes, hybrid bikes, or mountain bikes rather than road bikes with narrow tires. It's advisable to check specific route details for surface conditions.
How many road cycling routes are available in Fox State Forest?
There are 6 road cycling routes available in Fox State Forest and the surrounding area on komoot. These routes offer a variety of experiences for cyclists.
Are there routes suitable for beginners or more experienced road cyclists?
Yes, the routes cater to different skill levels. You'll find 4 moderate routes and 2 difficult routes. There are no easy routes specifically listed for traditional road cycling within this selection, suggesting a certain level of fitness or experience is beneficial, especially given the varied terrain.
What are some notable natural features or historical sites I might encounter on these routes?
While cycling, you might pass by areas featuring diverse forest ecosystems, including red pine plantations and old-growth hemlocks. Historically, the region is known for unique natural features like the Black Gum Swamp with ancient tupelo trees, the Mud Pond Bog with its distinct plants, and glacial erratic boulders. You could also encounter historical points like the Gearry Cemetery or the Monroe Hill Tower, which offers local views.
What is the longest road cycling route in the area?
The longest route is the Kimball Lake – River Road loop from Fox State Forest, which spans 60.9 miles (98.1 km) and is considered difficult. It features views of Kimball Lake and follows River Road.
Are there any loop trails for road cycling?
Yes, several routes are designed as loops. For example, the Bement Covered Bridge – Waterloo Covered Bridge loop from Fox State Forest is a popular moderate loop connecting two historic covered bridges. Another option is the Deering Reservoir loop from Hedgehog Mountain Forest, a shorter moderate ride.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Fox State Forest?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from 4 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse natural landscapes and the opportunity to explore routes that connect natural features and historical points of interest, including covered bridges.
What is the shortest road cycling route available?
The shortest route is the Deering Reservoir loop from Hedgehog Mountain Forest, covering 16.2 miles (26.1 km). This moderate route can typically be completed in under an hour.
Are there any routes that pass by covered bridges?
Yes, the Bement Covered Bridge – Waterloo Covered Bridge loop from Fox State Forest is a prominent route that connects two historic covered bridges, offering a scenic and culturally rich cycling experience.
What is the typical elevation gain on these road cycling routes?
The routes in Fox State Forest feature varied elevation gains. For instance, the Lake Sunapee Lighthouse – Bement Covered Bridge loop from Hillsborough Park and Ride involves over 1000 meters of ascent, making it a challenging ride. Even shorter routes like the Roadbike loop from Franklin Pierce Homestead State Historic Site include over 400 meters of climbing, so be prepared for undulating terrain.
Is there a route that offers views of a lake?
Yes, the Kimball Lake – River Road loop from Fox State Forest features views of Kimball Lake as part of its challenging 60.9-mile journey.
What is the best time of year for road cycling in Fox State Forest?
While specific seasonal recommendations aren't provided, the diverse forest ecosystems, including beech groves, are particularly striking in the fall. However, given the potential for unpaved sections, spring and summer offer generally drier conditions, while late fall might present challenges with fallen leaves or wetter surfaces. Always check local weather and trail conditions before heading out.
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