The best gravel rides in Abbott State Forest
50
riders
11
rides
Gravel biking in Abbott State Forest offers routes through gentle hills and mixed forests in the Concord area of New Hampshire. The region features compact woodlands with hardwoods and softwoods, providing a scenic backdrop for rides. Proximity to Penacook Lake offers additional natural beauty and potential for diverse wildlife. The network includes unpaved segments and stone-dust paths, suitable for various cycling preferences.
Best gravel bike trails in Abbott State Forest
- The most popular gravel bike trail is View of Penacook…
Last updated: July 8, 2026
3
riders
30.8km
02:06
440m
440m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
9
riders
53.6km
03:20
550m
550m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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11
riders
66.2km
03:23
310m
310m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
7
riders
20.5km
01:02
70m
70m
Easy gravel ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
riders
46.3km
02:54
460m
460m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The Gerrish Depot is a nice parking spot near the New Hampshire State Nursery
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From here, to find the Hannah Duston Memorial, head south across the Merrimack River via a paved bridge, parallel to the railroad. Head south for about 400 feet to the small island. Located off the beaten path, the Hannah Duston Memorial State Historic Site is a 35-foot monument on a serene island where the Contoocook and Merrimack rivers converge. Built in 1874 to honor the courageous Hannah Duston, who was captured during King William's War in 1697 in Haverhill, Massachusetts. She killed her native captors, creating a controversial story, as shown by the vandalism in this statue, that this almost 200-year-old story has different sides.
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White Park, a 25-acre public park, is home to a small pond, a picnic area, a playground, restrooms, and a few trails. There is a trolley stop right at the southeast corner of the park, and the park sits right next to the picturesque University of the New Hampshire School of Law.
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Nestled in the heart of New Hampshire, Canterbury boasts a rich history dating back to its origins as a militia timber fort and trading post. Located on a hill near Canterbury Center, this site attracted Pennacook people who came to trade goods. The town was officially incorporated in 1741.
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There are nice views of Highland Lake to be had from here on the Franklin Highway. It is worth even getting closer to the shoreline for a better view. The Northern Rail Trail runs adjacent to you between the shore and the highway, and it runs directly alongside the lake. It is easy to turn off here to get an even better place to take a break and enjoy the view.
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There is a public beach and car parking here at the south end of Webster Lake. Whether you are cycling along Webster Road or along the Northern Rail Trail, it is worth a stop here to look at the views. There is also a small, compact covered bridge with exposed side trusses, which is gorgeous to look at going over Chance Pond Brook. In addition, there are also rest rooms here if the need arises.
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This river stretches for 10.5 miles and connects to Lake Winnipesaukee. The bridge at this point provides an elevated panoramic view of the waters, creating a perfect spot to take a break and enjoy the scenery.
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This bridge actually sees a lot of traffic from cyclists crossing back and forth over the pretty, tranquil Contoocook River — and some vehicle drivers too, of course.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many gravel bike trails are available in Abbott State Forest?
There are 10 gravel biking routes available in Abbott State Forest, catering to various skill levels from easy to difficult.
What kind of terrain can I expect on gravel bike trails in Abbott State Forest?
The terrain in Abbott State Forest features gentle hills and mixed forests, with unpaved segments and stone-dust paths. While some areas, particularly in the larger Russell-Abbott State Forest, can include steeper sections, soft sand, or woods roads, the routes generally offer varied New Hampshire scenery.
Are there gravel biking routes suitable for beginners in Abbott State Forest?
Yes, there is at least one easy gravel biking route available. The region's network includes options for different ability levels, so beginners can find suitable paths.
Are there challenging gravel routes for experienced riders in Abbott State Forest?
Absolutely. For experienced riders seeking a challenge, there are 6 difficult routes available. One such route is the Contoocook River bridge – Contoocook Covered Bridge loop from Broad Cove City Forest, which is 30.8 miles long and explores the area around the Contoocook River.
What natural features or landmarks can I expect to see while gravel biking in Abbott State Forest?
You can expect to see mixed forests with hardwoods and softwoods, gentle hills, and scenic views. The Abbott State Forest near Concord borders Penacook Lake, offering beautiful lakeside vistas. In the broader Russell-Abbott State Forest area, you might encounter granite ledges, secret ponds, marshes, and brooks, along with historical remnants of an early 19th-century potato starch mill operation.
Are there any circular gravel biking routes in Abbott State Forest?
Yes, many of the gravel biking routes in Abbott State Forest are designed as loops. For example, the popular View of Penacook Lake – Rum Hill loop from Abbott State Forest is a 19.1-mile circular route offering views of Penacook Lake.
What is the best time of year for gravel biking in Abbott State Forest?
The fall season is particularly beautiful for gravel biking in Abbott State Forest, especially in areas like Russell-Abbott State Forest where sugar maples provide vibrant displays of yellow and orange foliage. Spring and summer also offer pleasant conditions for exploring the mixed forests.
What do other gravel bikers enjoy the most about gravel biking in Abbott State Forest?
Gravel bikers on komoot frequently praise the varied terrain, which includes gentle hills and mixed forests, and the scenic beauty of the region. The network offers a good mix of routes for different skill levels, making it appealing to a wide range of riders.
Are there any routes that feature historical points of interest?
Yes, some routes pass by historical landmarks. For instance, the Contoocook River bridge – Contoocook Covered Bridge loop from Broad Cove City Forest features a historic covered bridge. The broader Russell-Abbott State Forest also holds remnants of an extensive potato starch mill operation from the early 19th century.
Can I connect to rail trails for longer rides in the Abbott State Forest area?
Yes, particularly in the Russell-Abbott State Forest area, you can connect with the Mason Rail Trail and the Greenville Mason Railtrail. These connections offer excellent opportunities for extended, multi-surface rides on unpaved paths, enhancing the gravel biking experience.
Are there any routes near Penacook Lake?
Yes, Abbott State Forest borders Penacook Lake. The View of Penacook Lake – Rum Hill loop from Abbott State Forest is a popular route that offers scenic views of the lake and winds through the forest's gentle topography.
What is the longest gravel biking route available in the area?
One of the longer routes is the Hannah Duston Memorial – Canterbury loop from Penacook, which spans 33.2 miles (53.5 km) and leads through varied landscapes near Penacook.
Most popular routes in Abbott State Forest
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