The best traffic-free bike rides in Merrimack County

Merrimack County offers over 35 dedicated no-traffic gravel bike trails, ranging from easy to difficult, ensuring a diverse experience for all skill levels. These routes utilize rail trails, quiet back roads, and state park networks to provide car-free or very low-traffic riding.

Yes, Merrimack County has several excellent options for family-friendly gravel biking. The Northern Rail Trail, with its hard-packed stone dust and crushed gravel surfaces, is particularly suitable. Additionally, sections of the Merrimack River Greenway Trail offer paved and stone-dust multi-use paths ideal for all ages. For a moderately challenging family ride, consider the Hayes Marsh – Bear Hill Pond loop from Bear Brook State Park, which is rated easy.

You'll encounter a diverse range of surfaces. Many trails, like the Northern Rail Trail and sections of the Merrimack River Greenway Trail, feature hard-packed stone dust and crushed gravel. Other areas, such as Bear Brook State Park, Horse Hill Nature Preserve, and Grater Woods, offer dirt roads, doubletrack, and old logging roads. For more adventurous riders, some Class VI roads provide rugged and rocky sections.

Merrimack County's trails often pass through beautiful natural settings. You can expect scenic views of the Merrimack River, various lakes and ponds like Lake Solitude and Beaver Pond, and dense woodlands. Keep an eye out for diverse wildlife, including birds, beaver, deer, and turtles. Some routes also offer glimpses of historical sites. For example, you might pass by the Waterloo Covered Bridge or the Canterbury Shaker Village.

Yes, there are several loop options for gravel biking. For a longer, more challenging ride, the Elkins Beach – Kezar Lake loop from Warner offers a significant distance and elevation gain. A moderate option is the Massabesic Lake – Clark Pond loop from Manchester. For a slightly shorter loop, consider the Clark Pond – Emerson’s Mill Pond loop from Auburn.

The best seasons for gravel biking in Merrimack County are generally spring, summer, and fall. Spring offers lush greenery, while fall provides stunning foliage. Summer is great for longer days, but be mindful of heat and humidity. Winter riding is possible on some trails, especially those that are well-packed, but conditions can vary greatly with snow and ice.

Many multi-use trails and state parks in Merrimack County, including sections of the Northern Rail Trail and Bear Brook State Park, are dog-friendly. However, it's always best to check specific trail regulations before you go, and ensure your dog is on a leash and you clean up after them.

Parking is typically available at trailheads for major rail trails like the Northern Rail Trail and at state parks such as Bear Brook State Park. For routes utilizing Class VI roads or quieter back roads, parking might be more limited, often requiring roadside parking where permitted. Always look for designated parking areas or safe, legal spots.

The komoot community highly rates Merrimack County for its gravel biking, with an average score of 4.25 stars. Reviewers often praise the region's extensive network of quiet trails, the beautiful natural scenery including dense woodlands and serene waterways, and the variety of terrain suitable for different skill levels. The sense of escaping traffic and immersing oneself in nature is a common highlight.

Yes, for experienced gravel riders seeking a challenge, Merrimack County offers routes with significant elevation and more rugged terrain. The Elkins Beach – Kezar Lake loop from Warner is rated difficult, featuring substantial climbing and a long distance. Additionally, some Class VI roads in towns like Epsom and Warner can provide challenging, unmaintained sections for those looking for a more adventurous ride.

Public transport options directly to trailheads in Merrimack County can be limited, as many trails are in more rural areas. However, some towns along major rail trails may have local bus services. Planning your route in advance and checking local transit schedules for towns like Concord or Franklin is recommended. For more information on the Merrimack River Greenway Trail's development and access, you can visit concordnh.gov.

Absolutely. For a shorter, easy ride, the Hayes Marsh – Bear Hill Pond loop from Bear Brook State Park is an excellent option, rated easy and offering a pleasant experience. Sections of the Northern Rail Trail and Merrimack River Greenway Trail also provide easy access points for shorter out-and-back rides, perfect for a quick spin.