East Coast Greenway: New Hampshire

The difficulty of cycling this route can vary. While completed traffic-free segments are designed for all ages and abilities, the interim on-road sections are generally recommended for more experienced cyclists due to limited dedicated provisions for bikes. The overall route is rated as easy, but be prepared for varying conditions.

The route primarily traces New Hampshire's Atlantic coastline, offering continuous ocean views. The surfaces can vary, with some sections being asphalt or paved, while others may be unpaved. The long-term vision includes utilizing a former rail corridor, suggesting relatively flat segments once completed.

Specific parking areas can vary depending on where you choose to access the route. Given its coastal alignment through several communities, public parking lots in towns like Portsmouth, Rye, North Hampton, and Hampton are good starting points. For example, near Jenness State Beach or other public beach access points, you'll often find parking.

Generally, dogs are allowed on most public trails in New Hampshire, including sections of the East Coast Greenway, provided they are kept on a leash and owners clean up after them. However, specific rules may vary in certain town parks or beach areas along the route, so it's always best to check local signage.

The best time to cycle this route is typically from late spring through early fall (May to October) when the weather is mild and coastal views are at their best. Summer offers warmer temperatures but can also bring more crowds, especially to popular beach areas like Jenness State Beach. Fall provides cooler temperatures and beautiful scenery.

No, generally, you do not need a permit or have to pay specific fees to cycle the East Coast Greenway in New Hampshire. However, some parking areas, especially near popular beaches or state parks, may have parking fees, particularly during peak season.

The route offers consistent and scenic views of the Atlantic Ocean. You'll pass by notable spots such as Jenness State Beach, ride along Ocean Boulevard / Route 1A, and go through charming coastal settlements like New Castle, providing a quintessential New Hampshire seacoast experience.

Yes, as the East Coast Greenway continues to develop, more family-friendly, traffic-free segments are becoming available. An 8-mile off-road segment connecting Portsmouth to North Hampton, opened in September 2024, is particularly suitable for families and cyclists of all ages.

Yes, the East Coast Greenway in New Hampshire is part of the larger 3,000-mile East Coast Greenway network. It connects to Maine's Eastern Trail via a road-separated walkway over the Memorial Bridge. Within New Hampshire, the route also passes through sections of the 1 (New Hampshire) and the East Coast Greenway (NH).

Absolutely. As the route passes through seven seacoast communities, including Portsmouth, Rye, and Hampton, you'll find numerous cafes, restaurants, pubs, and accommodation options. These towns offer a variety of choices for refreshments and overnight stays, often within easy reach of the cycling path.

New Hampshire has made significant progress in developing its section of the East Coast Greenway. While it currently includes an interim 20-mile route largely on existing roads, an 8-mile off-road segment (Phase 1A of the New Hampshire Seacoast Greenway) connecting Portsmouth to North Hampton opened in September 2024. The goal is to develop 16.5 miles of rail trail and additional on- and off-road connections to create a continuous path.