The best cycling routes in Oxford County

Oxford County offers a diverse range of terrain for touring cyclists. You'll find routes through river valleys, extensive forested areas, and gently rolling hills. Some areas, particularly those closer to the White Mountain National Forest, feature more challenging ascents. For those who prefer off-road adventures, there are also unpaved gravel roads, providing quieter routes through beautiful scenery.

Yes, Oxford County has routes suitable for various skill levels. There are 10 easy touring cycling routes available. For example, the Round Pond – Clays Pond loop from East Bear Paw Preserve is an easy 9.1-mile (14.6 km) trail with minimal elevation gain, perfect for a relaxed family outing. Another easy option is the Bethel Pathway – Bethel Pedestrian Bridge loop from Bethel, which is 6.4 miles (10.3 km) long.

Absolutely. Oxford County is home to several beautiful natural features. You can explore routes that pass by stunning waterfalls, such as the Steep Falls via Cornish route, which takes you past the Steep Falls Waterfall. Other notable waterfalls in the region include Step Falls Preserve, Dunn Falls, and Screw Auger Falls.

Yes, many touring cycling routes in Oxford County are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. A popular example is the North Road to Roland Day Road loop, an 18.6-mile (29.9 km) trail that features the Parsonsfield-Porter Covered Bridge. Another option is the River Road to State Route 108 loop, covering 13.9 miles (22.4 km).

The touring cycling routes in Oxford County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, from scenic river valleys to quiet forested areas, and the variety of routes that cater to different ability levels. The presence of charming towns and unique stops along the way also adds to the enjoyable experience.

Yes, Oxford County offers options for gravel touring cyclists. The region is known for its unpaved gravel roads, which provide a different kind of cycling experience away from traffic. An excellent example is the Dead Diamond Road & Dam Road gravel loop, a moderate 28.0-mile (45.1 km) path that explores varied terrain with significant sections of gravel.

Beyond the natural beauty, Oxford County's routes often connect to charming towns and unique cultural stops. You can find local cheese producers, bakeries, markets, and historic sites. For instance, the region is known for the Oxford County Cheese Trail. Along the routes, you might also encounter landmarks like the Evan's Notch or the Old Speck Mountain Fire Tower.

Yes, for experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, Oxford County offers routes with significant elevation gain, particularly in areas near the White Mountain National Forest. While most routes are moderate, some feature more demanding ascents. The Basin Brook Reservoir to Evans Notch — Wild River Wilderness route, though shorter at 6.5 miles (10.5 km), includes a substantial climb of over 1000 feet (329 meters).

The best time for touring cycling in Oxford County is generally from spring through fall, when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is vibrant. The region's diverse landscapes, including river valleys and forested areas, are particularly beautiful during these seasons. While some trails might be groomed for winter fat biking in conservation areas, the primary touring cycling season is warmer months.

Many touring cycling routes in Oxford County feature picturesque views along rivers. Routes often follow waterways like the Androscoggin River, providing scenic vistas of the natural landscape. The Paradise Hill loop from Bethel, for example, offers views of the local river systems and surrounding natural beauty.

There are over 35 touring cycling routes available in Oxford County, catering to a range of abilities and preferences. This includes 10 easy routes, 23 moderate routes, and 4 difficult routes, ensuring there's something for every touring cyclist.