The best cycling routes in Pillsbury State Park

This easy 4.8-mile touring cycling loop around Millen Lake from Washington offers a pleasant ride on mostly paved surfaces.

Embark on a memorable touring cycling journey through the heart of New Hampshire with the Bement Covered Bridge – Lake Todd loop from Newbury. This difficult 42.7-mile (68.8 km) route, featuring 2544 feet (775 metres) of elevation gain and an estimated duration of 4 hours and 27 minutes, immerses you in a landscape of historic covered bridges, tranquil lake views, and charming rural roads. You'll pedal past the iconic Bement Covered Bridge, a true piece of local history, before enjoying the dedicated multi-use path along Lake Todd, offering a mix of paved and stone dust surfaces that keep the ride engaging.

Planning your ride on this Newbury NH cycling route means preparing for varied terrain and significant climbs. While specific trailhead parking for the entire loop isn't detailed, you can typically find access in the Newbury and Bradford areas. The Tilley Wheeler Trail section is open year-round, but the best time of year to cycle the full loop for optimal conditions and scenery is generally from late spring through early fall. Always ensure your touring bike is equipped for mixed surfaces, especially the stone dust sections, and carry enough water for this substantial outing.

What makes this loop stand out is its blend of cultural heritage and modern cycling infrastructure. The Bement Covered Bridge, built in 1854, is a registered historic place, adding a unique charm to your ride. The Lake Todd Bridge, part of the Tilley Wheeler Trail, was specifically developed to provide a safe cycling option, memorializing a cyclist and offering a welcome alternative to busier roads. This commitment to safe cycling, combined with the picturesque New Hampshire landmarks, makes it one of the best touring cycling routes in the Lake Todd area.

If you're seeking a peaceful and scenic ride, the Lake Todd loop from South Newbury is a fantastic choice for touring cycling. You'll glide along a smooth stone dust surface, passing through quiet, mixed woods and enjoying glimpses of Lake Todd. The highlight is undoubtedly the Robert D. Saturley Memorial Bridge, which offers a safe and picturesque crossing over the lake, making this one of the best cycling trails South Newbury New Hampshire has to offer for a relaxed pace.

Planning your Lake Todd loop South Newbury cycling route is straightforward. This easy 8.5-mile (13.8 km) ride, with only 389 feet (119 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 50 minutes, making it perfect for a quick escape. Aim for warmer months to enjoy the rail trail's surface, and look for amenities like a bicycle pump station and information kiosks along the way. Parking for Lake Todd cycling trail South Newbury is typically available at various access points to the rail trail.

This route is part of the broader Concord-Lake Sunapee Rail Trail, a project aimed at connecting communities along a historic railroad line. The Robert D. Saturley Memorial Bridge, a key feature of this loop, was specifically built to provide a safe passage for cyclists and pedestrians, honoring a cyclist. It's a great option for beginner touring cycling near Lake Todd, offering a blend of natural beauty and thoughtful infrastructure.

Embark on the Lake Sunapee loop for a classic New England touring bicycle experience, offering picturesque views of the lake's shoreline and charming villages. This moderate route covers 20.3 miles (32.7 km) with a total elevation gain of 1380 feet (420 metres), making for a rewarding ride. You can expect to complete the loop in about 2 hours and 8 minutes, enjoying rolling terrain that combines paved roads with some potential unpaved sections as you pass through wooded areas and wetlands.

When planning your visit, you will find parking typically available in the towns surrounding Lake Sunapee, providing convenient access to begin your ride. While the loop itself is generally on paved surfaces, be aware that other routes in the broader Lake Sunapee area might include unpaved sections. Always check local conditions before heading out, especially if you plan to explore beyond this specific loop, to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey.

The Lake Sunapee loop stands out for its natural beauty, particularly as it guides you through the Sunapee Wildlife Management Area. This area offers a chance to immerse yourself in the region's diverse ecosystems, from dense woodlands to tranquil wetlands. The route provides a unique opportunity to experience the serene atmosphere and varied landscapes that define this part of New Hampshire, making it a notable destination for touring cyclists.