The best traffic-free bike rides in Great Gulf Wilderness
4.0
(4)
109
riders
1
ride
No traffic touring cycling routes in Great Gulf Wilderness's surrounding region offer challenging and scenic experiences amidst the rugged Presidential Range. This area is characterized by towering peaks, glacially carved valleys, and a mix of paved and unpaved routes. While the Great Gulf Wilderness itself is preserved for non-mechanized activities, the immediate vicinity provides diverse terrain for touring cyclists. The landscape features high mountain passes, dense forests, and the dramatic Great Gulf Cirque, offering varied elevations for cycling.
Best no…
Last updated: April 27, 2026
5.0
(1)
73
riders
12.3km
02:14
1,400m
20m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.0
(3)
17
riders
27.8km
02:36
180m
180m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
4
riders
7.57km
00:50
200m
200m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
Ride the park’s fun singletrack, then cool off in the chilly spring-fed swimming pool. Perfect way to end a day of trails at Moose Brook State Park.
0
0
This remarkable 7.6-mile climb, accessible to cyclists only twice each year, commences in the town of Glen House. From there, the Mt. Washington Auto Road winds its way upward like a a two-lane ribbon. As you climb, you pass through forests and ultimately above the treeline. The views will pay you back when you reach the 6,288-foot summit of Mt. Washington!
0
0
Washington is the most prominent mountain in the eastern U.S. and an absolutely incredible peak to bag. This is easily one of the best summits in New England. It is also the most dangerous if you come unprepared, especially in the winter. Washington creates its own rapidly changing weather system and is known for being the deadliest small mountain in the world. The second-fastest wind speed on earth was recorded here at over 230mph. That said, a quarter million people visit Washington every year, and if you come prepared and respect the mountain you have nothing to fear and are guaranteed to have an epic summit.
0
0
Dress warmly. Snow season begins July 1 and ends June 30. We were at 68 mph at the summit. Keeping your hat on is a good idea. Two days ago, when we were last up there, it was 73 degrees Fahrenheit and the wind was blowing lightly around 23 mph. Mt. Washington is the highest peak within 1,000 miles, making it an exposed location with what the US Weather Service calls the worst and most surprising weather in the world.
0
0
The Mount Washington Auto Road is only open to bicycles 2 days each year: for the Mount Washington Auto Road Bicycle Hillclimb race each August and the Early Bird (which is just a solo ride for 150 riders) in July. Other than the Delta Dental Mount Washington Road Race in June (an uphill-only running race), the road is privately owned and operated to support only paying vehicles. This is a grueling climb with an average grade of 12% that is not for the faint of heart.
0
0
At a height of 6,288 feet in elevation, Mount Washington is the highest point in the range, state, and region. Some people drive to the summit, but there are a couple of days each year that you can bike the paved road to the top, which is a popular challenge for avid cyclists. A gravel bike can be handy since some of the road grades get so steep that you need that bigger cassette. The two events hosted each year for cyclists is the Mount Washington Auto Road Bicycle Hillclimb race each August and the Early Bird (which is just a solo ride for 150 riders) in July. There are places to refill your water, go to the restroom, lock up your bike, and even get a bike to eat if you need it at the top on race day. Note that all riders have to get a ride down the mountain and aren't allowed to bike down the road!
0
0
The Mount Washington Auto Road is only open to bicycles 2 days each year: for the Mount Washington Auto Road Bicycle Hillclimb race each August and the Early Bird (which is just a solo ride for 150 riders) in July. Other than the Delta Dental Mount Washington Road Race in June (an uphill-only running race), the road is privately owned and operated to support only paying vehicles. This is a grueling climb with an average grade of 12% that is not for the faint of heart.
0
0
At a height of 6,288 feet in elevation, Mount Washington is the highest point in the range, state, and region. Some people drive to the summit, but there are a couple days each year that you can bike the paved road to the top, which is a popular challenge for avid cyclists. The two events hosted each year for cyclists is the Mount Washington Auto Road Bicycle Hillclimb race each August and the Early Bird (which is just a solo ride for 150 riders) in July. There are places to refill your water, go to the restroom, lock up your bike, and even get a bike to eat if you need it at the top on race day. Note that all riders have to get a ride down the mountain and aren't allowed to bike down the road!
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I cycle directly within the Great Gulf Wilderness boundaries?
No, the Great Gulf Wilderness is a protected area where all vehicles, including bicycles, are generally prohibited on its trails. It is preserved for non-mechanized outdoor activities like hiking. However, the surrounding region offers excellent opportunities for touring cyclists.
Where can I find traffic-free touring cycling routes near the Great Gulf Wilderness?
While cycling is not permitted within the wilderness itself, the immediate vicinity offers great options. For example, the Mount Washington Auto Road Bicycle Hillclimb race route provides a challenging, paved experience with incredible views. Additionally, areas like Moose Brook State Park, located nearby, feature routes such as the Moose Brook State Park – Swimming Pool loop and the Moose Brook State Park loop, which offer more moderate, traffic-free options.
What is the difficulty level of touring cycling routes in the Great Gulf Wilderness area?
The routes available in the surrounding area vary in difficulty. For instance, the Mount Washington Auto Road Bicycle Hillclimb race route is considered difficult due to its significant elevation gain of over 1,400 meters. Other routes, like those found in Moose Brook State Park, are typically moderate, offering a more accessible experience for touring cyclists.
Are there any family-friendly or beginner-friendly touring cycling routes nearby?
While the Great Gulf Wilderness itself is rugged, the surrounding region does offer more accessible options. The routes within Moose Brook State Park, such as the Moose Brook State Park loop, are rated as moderate and could be suitable for families or beginners looking for less challenging terrain and shorter distances.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling near the Great Gulf Wilderness?
The best time for touring cycling in the region is generally from late spring through early fall (May to October). During these months, the weather is more favorable, and roads and trails are typically free of snow and ice. Summer offers the warmest temperatures, while fall provides stunning foliage views.
What kind of views and landscapes can I expect on these routes?
The region is nestled within New Hampshire's Presidential Range, offering spectacular mountain views. Routes like the Mount Washington Auto Road provide panoramic vistas of the highest peaks in New England. Even routes in areas like Moose Brook State Park offer scenic rides through woodlands and along waterways, with the dramatic backdrop of the White Mountains.
Are there any specific landmarks or attractions I can see while cycling?
While the wilderness itself is for hiking, the cycling routes in the surrounding area offer their own points of interest. The Mount Washington Auto Road leads to the summit of Mount Washington, offering unparalleled views. For those interested in the natural features of the wilderness from a distance, the towering peaks like Mount Adams are a constant, impressive backdrop.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in this area?
The komoot community rates the touring cycling experience in the Great Gulf Wilderness area highly, with an average score of 4.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the challenging climbs, the spectacular mountain scenery, and the sense of accomplishment from tackling iconic routes like the Mount Washington Auto Road.
Are there any loop touring cycling routes available?
Yes, there are loop options available in the vicinity. For example, within Moose Brook State Park, you can find routes like the Moose Brook State Park loop, which offers a circular route for touring cyclists.
Is parking available for these no-traffic cycling routes?
Yes, parking is typically available at the starting points of these routes. For the Mount Washington Auto Road, there is parking at the base. For routes within Moose Brook State Park, parking is available at the state park facilities.
Are there any amenities like cafes or bike rentals near the cycling routes?
While the wilderness itself is remote, the surrounding towns and areas offer amenities. The Great Glen Trails Outdoor Center, located at the base of the Mount Washington Auto Road, provides bike rentals and other services. Nearby towns will also have cafes and other facilities for cyclists.
Most popular routes in Great Gulf Wilderness
Most popular attractions in Great Gulf Wilderness
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Cycling routes in other regions.
