The best traffic-free bike rides in Merrimack County

The Bear Brook State Park loop offers a moderate 15.8-mile (25.5 km) touring bicycle ride with 799 feet (243 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 2 hours and 23 minutes. You'll pedal through a rich tapestry of mixed forests and wetlands, passing tranquil spots like Hayes Marsh, where you might spot painted turtles or great blue herons. The route combines paved sections with dirt roads and double tracks, providing a varied and engaging experience for cyclists who appreciate diverse landscapes.

Accessing the Bear Brook State Park loop is straightforward, with ample parking available at designated areas within the park. The main hiker/biker trailhead, located off Podunk Road, offers convenient amenities like bathrooms and a trailhead kiosk, making for an easy start to your ride. While the park has extensive trails, this specific loop is well-suited for touring bikes and doesn't require special permits.

Beyond the natural beauty, the Bear Brook State Park loop also offers glimpses into history, with remnants of past agricultural activity and Civilian Conservation Corps buildings scattered along various routes. The park's extensive network of over 40 miles of trails ensures there are options for all preferences, but this particular loop provides a balanced challenge and scenic rewards for touring cyclists.

This difficult touring cycling route, the Blackwater Dam Flood Control Reservoir to Andover loop from Warner, offers a challenging and scenic experience through New Hampshire's rolling hills. You'll navigate a mix of paved roads and quieter country lanes, with some unpaved sections adding to the adventure. The route provides picturesque views of the Blackwater Dam Reservoir and the surrounding expansive forests, with the section around Kezar Lake being particularly stunning for fall foliage.

To tackle this 35.4-mile (57.0 km) loop, which includes 1585 feet (483 metres) of elevation gain and takes about 4 hours and 23 minutes, you'll need very good fitness. The terrain includes demanding climbs, and some riders might find themselves pushing their bikes on steeper or unpaved segments. Consider cycling in autumn for the best views, and always ensure you carry sufficient water for this substantial ride.

The Blackwater Dam Flood Control Reservoir itself is a significant feature, an earthen structure completed in 1941 by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, offering 3,600 acres of recreational land. Another highlight is the historic Andover Covered Bridge, also known as Keniston Bridge, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This route allows you to appreciate the region's diverse ecosystems, from forests to wetlands, with opportunities for wildlife observation.

The Pleasant Lake loop and Elkins Beach offers a delightful touring cycling experience, winding along well-paved roads with consistent views of the lake through New Hampshire's forested landscapes. The route is mostly flat with gentle rolling sections, making it a comfortable and quiet ride. You'll especially enjoy the sandy inlet of Elkins Beach, a perfect spot to take a break and soak in the tranquil water views.

Planning your visit is straightforward; this is a public road route, so no permits or fees are required for cycling. The nearby village of Elkins provides convenient amenities like a gas station and an ice cream shop, ideal for a stop. This easy 5.6-mile (9.0 km) loop, with only 255 feet (78 metres) of elevation gain, can be completed in about 32 minutes, making it accessible for all skill levels.

This route is an excellent choice for beginner touring cycling around Pleasant Lake, offering a relaxed pace and beautiful scenery without demanding much effort. While a shorter ride, it connects with other local paths like the Sunapee-Ragged-Kearsarge Greenway, providing options for extending your adventure if you wish to explore more of the region's natural features.

The Goffstown Rail Trail and Everett Lake Loop offers a unique touring cycling experience, transitioning from the smooth, tree-shaded Goffstown Rail Trail to the rugged, expansive Hopkinton-Everett Multi-use Trail System. You'll start with scenic views of the Piscataquog River and Glen Lake, passing through wooded areas and open fields, before venturing into more challenging terrain with lake views towards Everett Lake. This route is a true test of versatility, combining easy stretches with demanding off-road sections.

This difficult 32.9-mile (52.9 km) cycling route involves a significant 1597 feet (487 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 3 hours and 46 minutes to complete. While the Goffstown Rail Trail is family-friendly with convenient parking, the extended Everett Lake loop terrain cycling demands a robust bike and good fitness due to its varied surfaces, including dirt roads, loose rock, and exposed roots. Be prepared for shared trails with ATVs in the Hopkinton-Everett system, and check for any flood control closures before you go.

This route stands out for its blend of well-maintained rail trail and wilder multi-use paths, showcasing the diverse natural features of New Hampshire. It's a fantastic option for cyclists looking to push their limits beyond typical rail trail experiences, offering a sense of adventure and immersion in nature. The contrast between the gentle start near Goffstown Town center and the challenging sections around Everett Lake makes for a memorable ride.

Explore the natural beauty around the Contoocook River on this 24.3-mile (39.1 km) touring cycling loop. You'll ride through deciduous forests and past wetland vegetation, with picturesque views of the river itself and Hot Hole Pond. The route often follows old railroad beds, offering generally flat and wide paths, but be prepared for varied surfaces ranging from packed earth to loose sand. Keep an eye out for wildlife, including birds and beavers, as you cycle through this scenic area.

This moderate route, with 1382 feet (421 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 2 hours and 27 minutes. Parking is readily available at Contoocook River Park access points. While many sections are easy, some areas might have uneven surfaces, so it's best suited for touring bikes with more robust tires. Spring and autumn are particularly beautiful seasons to visit, offering vibrant flora or foliage.

The Contoocook River Park area is steeped in history, once home to an amusement park and trolley lines. Today, it's a popular spot for outdoor activities, offering a blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue. You'll encounter landmarks like the Contoocook River Park and may even spot the old hydroelectric canal, adding a unique dimension to your ride.