The best traffic-free bike rides in Russell-Shea State Forest
4.3
(23)
304
riders
15
rides
No traffic road cycling routes in Russell-Shea State Forest traverse a landscape characterized by mixed hardwood forests, craggy granite ledges, and serene ponds. The region offers diverse terrain suitable for road cycling, with many routes featuring predominantly paved surfaces. Historical remnants, such as an 1818 potato starch mill, add a unique element to the natural scenery.
Best no traffic road cycling routes in Russell-Shea State Forest
- The most popular no traffic road cycling route is White Farm – Silver Hill loop from Saint Pauls School, a 41.6 miles (67.0 km) trail that takes 3 hours 3 minutes to complete. This route features a moderate difficulty with over 2,500 feet (770 m) of elevation gain.
- Another top favourite among local road cyclists is Whittier Pond – Everett Lake loop from Saint Pauls School, a moderate 44.6 miles (71.8 km) path. This route offers varied terrain through the forest, passing by notable ponds.
- Local road cyclists also love the Wood Hill – Bow Town Pond loop from Saint Pauls School, a 24.7 miles (39.7 km) trail leading through forested areas and past Bow Town Pond, often completed in about 1 hour 52 minutes.
- Road cycling in Russell-Shea State Forest is defined by mixed hardwood forests, granite ledges, and serene ponds. The network offers options for different ability levels, from moderate rides to more challenging excursions.
- The routes in Russell-Shea State Forest are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.2 stars from more than 20 reviews. More than 250 road cyclists have used komoot to explore Russell-Shea State Forest's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 6, 2026
4
riders
39.7km
01:52
520m
520m
Embark on the Wood Hill – Greylore Farm Pond loop, a road cycling route that promises a journey through the scenic grounds of Saint Paul's School. You'll navigate a varied landscape, potentially encountering old roads and footpaths, with the promise of tranquil views over Greylore Farm Pond. The route's character suggests a blend of natural beauty and a moderate challenge, perfect for those who enjoy exploring diverse terrain.
This moderate 24.7-mile (39.7 km) loop, with its 1705 feet (520 metres) of elevation gain, can be completed in about 1 hours and 52 minutes. Since specific road cycling details for this exact route are limited, it's wise to check with Saint Paul's School or local cycling resources for the most current information on conditions and suitability for road bikes. Be prepared for potentially varied surfaces.
The Saint Paul's School trail system, which may overlap with parts of this loop, is known for its
4
riders
74.7km
03:23
830m
830m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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4
riders
71.8km
03:18
770m
770m
The Everett Lake – White Farm loop from Saint Pauls School offers a rewarding road cycling experience, winding through scenic fields and past tranquil ponds. You'll pedal along quiet country roads, enjoying the bucolic scenery and glimpses of historic structures. This route provides a pleasant blend of natural beauty and a good workout, making it a solid choice for a day on the bike.
Planning your ride, you'll find this moderate route covers 44.6 miles (71.8 km) with a total elevation gain of 2527 feet (770 metres), typically taking about 3 hours and 17 minutes. Parking is usually accessible near Saint Pauls School, but it's a good idea to arrive early, especially on busy days. Always carry enough water and snacks, as services might be limited along the way.
This loop is ideal for intermediate cyclists who appreciate a varied terrain without extreme challenges. While specific details for this exact route are locally known, its character aligns with routes that offer a mix of paved surfaces and potentially some unpaved sections, providing a diverse and engaging ride through the New Hampshire countryside.
5
riders
39.0km
01:44
380m
380m
This moderate 24.3-mile (39.0 km) road cycling loop, with 1252 feet (382 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 1 hour and 44 minutes to complete, guiding you through a picturesque journey around the Contoocook River Park and several ponds. You'll pedal past deciduous forests and wetland vegetation, with highlights like Hot Hole Pond and the striking "The Palisades"—rocky cliffs overlooking the river. The route offers a dynamic experience, blending natural beauty with varied terrain.
Planning your ride requires the right equipment; a cyclocross or gravel bike is essential for this route. You'll encounter significant stretches of packed earth, dirt, and unpaved sections, making it unsuitable for traditional road bikes with narrow tires. Be ready for these changing surfaces to fully enjoy the experience.
What makes this loop stand out is its unique combination of natural and historical elements. Portions of the trail follow an old railroad bed, offering a glimpse into the area's past. Beyond the scenic ponds and forests, you'll also observe the Contoocook River's flow, including a dam and waterfall, adding to the diverse ecosystems you'll experience.
3
riders
34.3km
01:39
480m
480m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Popular around Russell-Shea State Forest
Tips from the Community
White Park, a 25-acre public park, is home to a small pond, a picnic area, a playground, restrooms, and a few trails. There is a trolley stop right at the southeast corner of the park, and the park sits right next to the picturesque University of the New Hampshire School of Law.
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Bow Town Pond is a popular fishing pond with easy road access. Bow Center Road takes you right along the western side of the pond. You can park at the neighboring Bow Community Building where there are a number of benches at the pond's edge. The trails through the surrounding woodlands are popular with hikers and joggers.
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Piscataquog State Forest is just south of Clough State Park and the Everett Reservoir on Clough Park Road in Weare, New Hampshire. These pretty protected woodlands are a nice place to look out for wildlife as you ride through the area.
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Once the site of a railroad amusement park, this is now a forested island with some nice walking trails on it. You'd have to lock your bike up if you want to explore the trails, but it's still worth biking here just to take in the views of the Contoocook River as it cuts around the island.
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This road takes you past the fields and historic structures of White Farm. If you feel like parking your bike for a while, there are some nice walking or running trails through the fields.
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This isn't just a spot to stop and stretch your legs - you might see people boating or fishing in this roadside pond. (Just for the record, it is considered public, not private, waters.)
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The Riley Property is a small nature preserve off of Hoit Road in Concord, New Hampshire. There is a short hiking loop and a platform where you can see Hoit Marsh. Although these trails are not road bike-friendly, this property is still a nice place to look for wildlife as you ride past.
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This park is for the most part a giant field, with some of it privately leased out for softball. The rest is open for multi-use, though, and there's a nice trail you can use to cut through to a nearby neighborhood if you like.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no traffic road cycling routes are available in Russell-Shea State Forest?
There are around 15 dedicated no traffic road cycling routes in Russell-Shea State Forest, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels. You'll find options ranging from easy to moderate difficulty.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the no traffic road cycling routes?
The routes in Russell-Shea State Forest are primarily designed for road cycling, featuring mostly paved surfaces. However, some routes may include short unpaved segments. The landscape is diverse, with mixed hardwood forests, craggy granite ledges, and serene ponds and brooks, providing a scenic backdrop for your ride.
Are there any easy no traffic road cycling routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, Russell-Shea State Forest offers several easy routes. The Contoocook River Park and ponds loop from Concord is described as easy and suitable for all fitness levels, featuring mostly paved surfaces. There are 3 easy routes in total, perfect for a relaxed ride.
What are some of the longer or more challenging no traffic road cycling routes?
For those seeking a longer ride, the White Farm – Silver Hill loop from Saint Pauls School covers approximately 67 km with about 777 meters of elevation gain. Another substantial option is the Whittier Pond – Everett Lake loop from Saint Pauls School, which is around 71.7 km with 770 meters of ascent. Both are rated as moderate and require good fitness.
Are the no traffic road cycling routes circular?
Many of the routes in Russell-Shea State Forest are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Wood Hill – Bow Town Pond loop from Saint Pauls School and the Brown Hill – Wood Hill loop from Bow, providing convenient circular journeys.
What natural features or landmarks can I see along the routes?
While cycling, you'll encounter diverse natural beauty including mixed hardwood forests, striking craggy granite ledges, and serene hidden ponds, marshes, and brooks. The Turkey River also flows through the area, enhancing the natural appeal. You might also discover historical remnants, such as an 1818 potato starch mill operation.
What do other cyclists say about the no traffic routes in Russell-Shea State Forest?
The no traffic road cycling routes in Russell-Shea State Forest are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 23 reviews. Cyclists often praise the peaceful environment, the scenic landscapes, and the opportunity to enjoy rides away from busy roads.
Is Russell-Shea State Forest suitable for road cycling year-round, or is there a best time to visit?
While road cycling can be enjoyed in various seasons, the best time to visit for traffic-free road cycling typically aligns with milder weather. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful foliage, while summer provides longer daylight hours. Winter conditions may make some routes less accessible due to snow or ice, so checking local conditions is always recommended.
Are there any routes that pass by water features like rivers or ponds?
Yes, several routes offer views of water features. The Contoocook River Park and ponds loop from Concord, as its name suggests, takes you past the Contoocook River and various ponds. The forest itself is characterized by serene hidden ponds, marshes, and brooks, and is situated on the banks of the Turkey River, ensuring many routes will offer scenic water views.
Are there any specific routes that are particularly good for experiencing the forest's natural beauty?
All the no traffic routes offer a chance to immerse yourself in the forest's natural beauty. Routes like the Whittier Pond – Everett Lake loop from Saint Pauls School will take you through diverse landscapes, including mixed hardwood forests and past serene ponds, allowing you to appreciate the flora like mountain laurel and witch hazel.
Most popular routes in Russell-Shea State Forest
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