The best gravel rides in New Hampshire

New Hampshire offers a wide selection of gravel biking routes, with over 160 trails documented on komoot. These routes traverse diverse landscapes, from coastal greenbelts to the rugged White Mountains and serene Lakes Region.

Gravel biking in New Hampshire is enjoyable across multiple seasons. Spring and fall offer particularly scenic rides with vibrant foliage or fresh greenery. The state's diverse terrain, including rail trails and old logging roads, provides options that are accessible for much of the year, though some higher elevation routes in the White Mountains may be best in warmer months.

Yes, New Hampshire has several options suitable for families. Many rail trails, such as sections of the Northern Rail Trail or the Cheshire Rail Trail, offer packed gravel surfaces and gentler gradients, making them ideal for a more relaxed ride. For an easy coastal experience, consider the Portsmouth Greenbelt – Cabral Easement loop, which explores greenbelt areas near the coast.

Absolutely. New Hampshire's natural beauty is a highlight of its gravel biking. You can find routes that pass by stunning natural features like waterfalls and lakes. For example, the White Mountains region is home to cascades like Arethusa Falls, and the Lakes Region boasts clear waters such as Echo Lake. The Packer's Falls – Lamprey River bridge loop from Durham offers river views and the chance to see falls.

Yes, New Hampshire offers numerous challenging gravel routes, with 88 classified as difficult. These often feature significant elevation changes and more rugged terrain. An example is the Elkins Beach – Kezar Lake loop from Warner, which includes substantial climbs and descents, offering a demanding ride with rewarding views.

New Hampshire's gravel trails offer a diverse range of terrain. You'll encounter packed gravel on repurposed rail trails, rougher logging roads, and quiet dirt roads. Some routes, particularly in the White Mountains, may include more technical sections or unmaintained surfaces, while others, like those in the Lakes Region, might feature lakeside routes and groomed gravel.

Many gravel bike routes in New Hampshire are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For instance, the Hickey Hill – Mast Road Natural Area loop from Inland Acres Town Forest is a moderate loop that winds through natural areas and forests, providing a varied experience.

Parking availability varies by trail. Many routes, especially those starting in towns or near state parks, offer designated parking areas. For example, the Portsmouth Greenbelt – Cabral Easement loop starts from the Borthwick Avenue parking lot. It's always recommended to check the specific tour details on komoot for parking information before heading out.

The gravel biking experience in New Hampshire is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 40 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse terrain, the stunning natural scenery, and the extensive network of rail trails and quiet back roads that provide a true escape into nature.

Yes, several routes offer access to notable landmarks. The White Mountains region, for example, features iconic peaks like Mount Washington and Mount Chocorua. The Cherry Pond – Presidential Rail Trail loop from Gorham leads through the White Mountains, offering views of this majestic range.

Yes, New Hampshire has several easy gravel routes perfect for beginners. These trails typically have less elevation gain and smoother surfaces. The Mast Road Natural Area loop from Newfields is a moderate option that provides a good introduction to gravel biking without being overly strenuous.

While many routes offer a sense of wilderness, some trails are located near towns or villages where you can find amenities. For example, the The Rail Penny Tavern – Nottingham State Forest loop from Exeter suggests a starting point near a tavern, indicating potential access to refreshments. It's advisable to check the specific route details for nearby services.