The best traffic-free bike rides in Abbott State Forest
4.1
(8)
115
riders
9
rides
No traffic touring cycling routes in Abbott State Forest are situated in a protected natural space bordered by Penacook Lake, Silk Farm State Forest, and the Merrimack River. The region primarily features low-impact natural areas, with the broader vicinity offering dedicated cycling paths. Terrain is generally low-lying, with routes often following converted rail trails or quiet country lanes. While the forest itself is a managed woodland, the surrounding area provides accessible routes for touring cyclists.
Best no traffic touring cycling…
Last updated: July 6, 2026
3.0
(1)
6
riders
11.6km
01:05
30m
30m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
riders
8.42km
00:35
20m
20m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.0
(2)
3
riders
11.6km
00:46
40m
40m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
17
riders
20.5km
01:17
70m
70m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
riders
19.1km
01:14
250m
250m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Abbott State Forest
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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West Village Open Space is an undeveloped open space that you will pass as you ride along the bike paths parallel to Fisherville Road.
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This is an undeveloped open space area that you will pass running along Fisherville Road. It adds some nice natural scenery to an otherwise urban landscape.
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The Northern Rail Trail was once the railbed of the Boston and Maine Railroad's Northern Line. Now it's an easygoing, unpaved multi-use trail that you'll share with runners and cyclists. This part of the trail roughly follows the path of the Merrimack River.
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This isn't exactly a rollicking mountain bike trail — it's more of an easy, flat ride through the trees on a packed dirt trail. But it's still a nice way for beginners to get their wheels rolling, or to just take your bike out for a spin off the pavement (although you can easily turn this into a loop with nearby roads).
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This old railbed has been turned into a wide, flat-packed dirt trail, making it a fun, easy ride on pretty much anything except skinny road tires. There isn't necessarily a lot of standout scenery, but this is still a very pleasant "nature ride" close to town, which you can easily turn into a loop with nearby roads.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no traffic touring cycling routes are available in the Abbott State Forest area?
There are 8 dedicated no traffic touring cycling routes available in the broader Abbott State Forest area. These routes are designed for peaceful rides away from busy roads, with 4 classified as easy and 4 as moderate.
What kind of terrain can I expect on these no traffic touring cycling routes?
The routes in the Abbott State Forest area primarily feature flat, stone-dust paths, especially on former rail trails like the Concord-Lake Sunapee Rail Trail Loop. Some routes may also include woods roads or sections with unpaved surfaces, particularly if venturing into areas like Russell Abbott State Forest, which connects to the Greenville Mason Railtrail.
Are there any family-friendly no traffic touring cycling routes?
Yes, several routes are suitable for families due to their easy difficulty and flat terrain. The Concord-Lake Sunapee Rail Trail Loop is an excellent example, offering a gentle 8.4 km ride on a stone-dust path, perfect for a relaxed family outing.
Can I bring my dog on these touring cycling routes?
Many of the rail trails and public paths in the Abbott State Forest area are dog-friendly, provided your dog is on a leash. Always check local regulations for specific trails, but generally, well-behaved dogs are welcome to accompany you on your touring cycling adventure.
What are some popular loop routes for touring cyclists?
Loop routes are a great way to experience the area. The Bike loop from Gustaf H. Lehtinen Park offers an easy 11.6 km ride, while the West Village Open Space loop from Penacook is another easy option of similar length. For a longer, moderate challenge, consider the Contoocook River Park and ponds loop.
Where can I park when visiting the Abbott State Forest area for cycling?
Parking is typically available at access points for rail trails and public parks that serve as starting points for these routes. For example, routes like the Bike loop from Gustaf H. Lehtinen Park would likely have parking facilities at or near the park itself. Always check the specific route details for recommended parking locations.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in the Abbott State Forest area?
The best time to visit for touring cycling is generally from spring through fall. Spring offers lush greenery, while autumn provides stunning fall foliage. Summer is also pleasant, though it can be warmer. Winter conditions may make some unpaved sections challenging due to snow and ice.
Are there any viewpoints or natural features to look out for along the routes?
While Abbott State Forest itself is primarily for quiet nature observation, the broader area's cycling routes offer scenic views. The View of Penacook Lake – White Park loop from Concord, for instance, provides views of Penacook Lake. Many routes also traverse varied New Hampshire scenery, including woodlands and river areas.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in the Abbott State Forest area?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.2 stars. Reviewers often praise the peaceful, traffic-free nature of the routes, the scenic beauty, and the accessibility of the rail trails for a relaxed cycling experience.
What is the typical length of touring cycling routes in this region?
The routes vary in length to suit different preferences. You can find shorter, easy rides like the Concord-Lake Sunapee Rail Trail Loop at 8.4 km, up to longer, moderate routes such as the Contoocook River Park and ponds loop, which spans over 39 km.
Most popular routes in Abbott State Forest
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