The best traffic-free bike rides in Coos County

The Mount Washington Auto Road Bicycle Hillclimb race route is an unrelenting ascent, widely considered one of the world's toughest cycling climbs. Over 7.7 miles (12.3 km), you'll gain an astonishing 4600 feet (1402 metres) of elevation, with an average gradient of 11.9% to 12% and sections reaching 20-22%. The scenery transforms dramatically from dense forest to a stark, alpine environment as you climb towards the Mount Washington Summit, offering expansive views on clear days, though the mountain's weather is famously unpredictable. This difficult route, typically taking 2 hours and 13 minutes, is for very fit cyclists seeking an extreme challenge.

Planning your ride on this iconic route requires careful attention to its unique access rules. The Auto Road is only open to bicycles during specific annual events: the hillclimb race in August and a practice ride in July. You cannot descend by bike; vehicle transport must be arranged for your return. Always check the weather forecast for Mount Washington, as conditions can be extreme, with high winds and cold temperatures possible even in summer.

This climb is a true bucket-list experience, not just for its extreme difficulty but also for its historical significance as America's oldest man-made tourist attraction. The hillclimb race itself has a long history, raising money for environmental conservation. The rapid ecological shift from forest to tundra-like terrain over such a short distance is a unique feature in the Northeast, making the effort even more memorable.

Embark on a challenging touring bicycle adventure along the Presidential Rail Trail, a difficult route spanning 35.5 miles (57.2 km) with an elevation gain of 1161 feet (354 metres). You can expect to complete this journey in about 5 hours and 24 minutes, cycling through varied landscapes. As you pedal, you'll pass through forests, bogs, and pastures, enjoying views of the Presidential Mountain Range and the Kilkenny Range, especially from the Pondicherry Wildlife Refuge.

When planning your visit, be aware that the trail's surface includes gravel, crushed stone, and some rougher sections. For this reason, bikes with wider tires, such as hybrid or gravel bikes, are highly recommended; road bikes with skinny tires are not suitable for the terrain. You will find several parking lots conveniently located along the trail's length, making it easy to access and start your ride from various points.

This route follows old railway lines, offering a unique perspective on the White Mountain National Forest. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including moose and black bears, as you follow rivers like the Israel and Moose. The trail is particularly scenic in summer with abundant wildflowers, and transforms into a spectacular display of foliage during the fall months.

Embark on a memorable gravel cycling journey through the White Mountain National Forest with the Old Cherry Mountain Road, Valley Road, & Jefferson Notch Road gravel loop. This difficult 27.1-mile (43.6 km) route, which typically takes around 3 hours and 58 minutes, offers a diverse landscape, from quiet forested roads to open stretches with grand vistas of the Presidential Range. You'll navigate varied surfaces, including pavement, gravel, and dirt, and be treated to stunning views of Mount Washington from Valley Road, making every pedal stroke worthwhile.

Planning your ride requires attention to seasonal closures; Old Cherry Mountain Road and Jefferson Notch Road are typically closed to motorized vehicles from late fall to mid-to-late spring. This window often provides the best conditions for a quieter ride, though you should still be cautious of active logging operations. Given the mixed terrain, including chunky and loose gravel, robust tires of 32mm or wider are highly recommended to ensure a smooth and safe experience.

This loop stands out for its historical significance, with Old Cherry Mountain Road once part of the Jefferson Turnpike, an early 19th-century toll road. It also includes Jefferson Notch Road, the highest public highway in New Hampshire, providing unique high-altitude views. Beyond the challenging climbs and scenic beauty, the route offers abundant birdwatching opportunities and a chance to experience the rich ecosystems of the White Mountain National Forest, making it a notable regional ride for serious gravel cyclists.

The Presidential Rail Trail Loop offers a delightful touring cycling experience through the scenic northern White Mountains. You'll pedal past wetlands and ponds, including Cherry Pond with its observation deck, all while enjoying panoramic views of the Presidential Range. The route follows old railway lines, providing a journey through diverse natural environments and a chance to spot local wildlife.

This moderate 17.2-mile (27.7 km) loop, with a gentle 373 feet (114 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 2 hours and 33 minutes. The surface varies from packed stone dust to coarser gravel and grassy sections, so a hybrid or mountain bike is ideal. Trailheads are available at both ends, and the Pondicherry trailhead offers a kiosk and porta-potty, making it a convenient starting point.

Part of the larger Cross New Hampshire Adventure Trail, this route is a fantastic way to explore the region's natural beauty and history. It's a multi-use path, so you might share it with hikers or equestrians, and some sections near Gorham are open to OHRVs. Keep an eye out for moose, beavers, and a variety of bird species as you ride.