The best traffic-free bike rides in Sewall'S Falls State Recreation Area

There are 9 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes in Sewall's Falls State Recreation Area. These routes are designed to offer a peaceful cycling experience away from vehicular traffic.

The no-traffic touring cycling routes in Sewall's Falls State Recreation Area are generally accessible, with 5 routes rated as easy and 4 as moderate. This makes the area suitable for a wide range of cyclists, from beginners to those looking for a slightly more challenging ride.

Yes, many of the routes are suitable for families. The main trail, which follows a deactivated railroad along the Merrimack River, is largely flat and offers a smooth surface, ideal for family outings. An excellent option is the Concord-Lake Sunapee Rail Trail Loop, which is rated as easy and provides a pleasant, traffic-free experience.

Sewall's Falls State Recreation Area is generally dog-friendly, but it's always best to keep your dog on a leash and ensure you clean up after them. Specific rules may vary by trail section, so look for signage. The open spaces and river-side paths are usually great for enjoying with your canine companion.

Yes, there are several circular routes designed for touring cyclists. For example, the Broken Ground Trails – Broken Ground Area loop from Oak Hill City Forest offers a moderate, scenic loop, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your steps.

The terrain on these no-traffic routes is varied but generally manageable for touring bikes. You'll find sections along deactivated railroads that are largely flat and smooth, as well as some doubletrack paths. While some areas might have roots or small rocks, particularly where trails link with mountain biking networks, the designated touring routes prioritize smoother surfaces suitable for various bicycle types.

Parking is available at Sewall's Falls State Recreation Area. There are designated parking areas that provide convenient access to the trailheads. It's advisable to arrive early during peak seasons to secure a spot.

The routes offer beautiful natural scenery, primarily along the Merrimack River. You can enjoy views of the river, steep bankings leading to woodland areas, and open grassy spots. A brook that feeds into the river also provides scenic forest and wildlife habitat. Keep an eye out for rapids in the river near the small sand beach.

While Sewall's Falls State Recreation Area is primarily accessed by car, some local public transport options might get you close to Concord, NH. However, direct public transport to the recreation area itself is limited, so planning for personal vehicle transport or a short taxi/rideshare from a nearby public transport hub is recommended.

The best time for touring cycling is typically from spring through fall. Spring offers lush greenery, while autumn provides stunning foliage. Summer is also popular, but be prepared for warmer temperatures. Winter cycling is possible, especially for cross-country skiing, but conditions for touring bikes can be challenging due to snow and ice.

While Sewall's Falls State Recreation Area itself is a natural preserve, the city of Concord, NH, is just a short distance away. You'll find a variety of cafes, restaurants, and pubs in Concord where you can refuel after your ride.

Sewall's Falls is rich in history. You can explore remnants of the hydroelectric canal and gates from the 1894 dam, which was once the longest rock crib dam in the world. The area also has ties to the logging industry and legendary connections to Indian Chief Passaconaway. Look for an old truss from a previous bridge and historical markers that provide interpretive information.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.2 stars. Reviewers often praise the peaceful, traffic-free environment, the scenic river views, and the well-maintained paths that make for a relaxing and enjoyable touring cycling experience.