Portsmouth Greenbelt – Drake Land loop from Portsmouth

If you're looking for an easy, scenic touring bicycle ride near Portsmouth, the Portsmouth Greenbelt – Drake Land loop from Portsmouth is a fantastic choice. This 11.0-mile (17.7 km) route is rated easy, with a minimal 117 feet (36 metres) of elevation gain, and you can comfortably complete it in about 1 hour and 5 minutes. It's perfect for families, new cyclists, or anyone seeking a relaxed spin through varied local landscapes.

What to expect on Portsmouth Greenbelt – Drake Land loop from Portsmouth

This route largely follows a former rail-trail, offering a generally flat profile with very little challenge. You'll cycle through a pleasant wooded, partially shaded corridor, past residential areas, and open fields. Keep an eye out for landmarks like Hampton Airfield and the serene Pickering Brook Marsh as the scenery shifts. The surface is primarily crushed gravel, described as packed smooth, though some sections of the loop might be paved, making it accessible for all fitness levels and requiring no advanced cycling skills.

Planning your visit

The Portsmouth Greenbelt – Drake Land loop is part of the larger New Hampshire Seacoast Greenway and a crucial link in the East Coast Greenway, a monumental network stretching from Maine to Florida. This multi-use trail is generally accessible, welcoming cyclists for much of the year. While specific parking details aren't highlighted, the trail's accessible nature suggests it's designed for easy public access, making it a straightforward option for a casual ride.

Trail details

• Distance: 11.0 miles (17.7 km)
• Elevation gain: 117 feet (36 metres)
• Difficulty: easy
• Estimated time: 1 hours and 5 minutes