The best traffic-free bike rides in Presidential Range-Dry River Wilderness
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Touring cycling in Presidential Range-Dry River Wilderness is characterized by rugged, steep terrain and high ridgelines within the White Mountain National Forest. While the federally designated wilderness area prohibits mechanized travel, the surrounding region offers extensive no traffic touring cycling routes. These routes provide views of prominent peaks like Mount Washington, Mount Adams, and Mount Jefferson, traversing diverse ecosystems including balsam fir forests, bogs, and rivers. The landscape features northern hardwood forests, wetlands, and continuous views of the Presidential Range…
Last updated: May 29, 2026
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riders
15.9km
01:24
360m
360m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
2.52km
00:09
10m
10m
Cycle the easy 1.6-mile Thorne Pond Loop in Bartlett, New Hampshire, offering tranquil pond views and wildflowers in just 8 minutes.
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73
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12.3km
02:14
1,400m
20m
If you are looking for a truly difficult touring bicycle challenge, the Mount Washington Auto Road Bicycle Hillclimb race route delivers. This 7.7-mile (12.3 km) climb takes you up an…
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riders
10.2km
00:43
190m
190m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
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17.7km
01:24
440m
440m
Cycle the moderate 11.0-mile Jackson Falls loop in White Mountain National Forest, featuring scenic waterfalls and forested roads.
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This remarkable 7.6-mile climb, accessible to cyclists only twice each year, commences in the town of Glen House. From there, the Mt. Washington Auto Road winds its way upward like a a two-lane ribbon. As you climb, you pass through forests and ultimately above the treeline. The views will pay you back when you reach the 6,288-foot summit of Mt. Washington!
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Bartlett, New Hampshire, is a picturesque mountain town nestled in the heart of the White Mountains. Known for its outdoor recreation, Bartlett offers access to scenic hiking trails, including those leading to Mount Langdon and Crawford Notch. In winter, it transforms into a hub for skiing and snowboarding at nearby resorts. With its charming village vibe, covered bridges, and proximity to natural wonders, Bartlett is a favorite destination for those looking to explore the beauty of New England.
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Washington is the most prominent mountain in the eastern U.S. and an absolutely incredible peak to bag. This is easily one of the best summits in New England. It is also the most dangerous if you come unprepared, especially in the winter. Washington creates its own rapidly changing weather system and is known for being the deadliest small mountain in the world. The second-fastest wind speed on earth was recorded here at over 230mph. That said, a quarter million people visit Washington every year, and if you come prepared and respect the mountain you have nothing to fear and are guaranteed to have an epic summit.
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Dress warmly. Snow season begins July 1 and ends June 30. We were at 68 mph at the summit. Keeping your hat on is a good idea. Two days ago, when we were last up there, it was 73 degrees Fahrenheit and the wind was blowing lightly around 23 mph. Mt. Washington is the highest peak within 1,000 miles, making it an exposed location with what the US Weather Service calls the worst and most surprising weather in the world.
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The expansive loop trail encircles Throne Pond. It's a lovely and simple path, perfect for children. The shores are lined with wildflowers and the entire route is full of scenic mountain views.
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Jackson Falls is a cool set of cascades on the Wildcat River. You can see the falls from the side of the road both above and below the cascades.
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At a height of 6,288 feet in elevation, Mount Washington is the highest point in the range, state, and region. Some people drive to the summit, but there are a couple of days each year that you can bike the paved road to the top, which is a popular challenge for avid cyclists. A gravel bike can be handy since some of the road grades get so steep that you need that bigger cassette. The two events hosted each year for cyclists is the Mount Washington Auto Road Bicycle Hillclimb race each August and the Early Bird (which is just a solo ride for 150 riders) in July. There are places to refill your water, go to the restroom, lock up your bike, and even get a bike to eat if you need it at the top on race day. Note that all riders have to get a ride down the mountain and aren't allowed to bike down the road!
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The Mount Washington Auto Road is only open to bicycles 2 days each year: for the Mount Washington Auto Road Bicycle Hillclimb race each August and the Early Bird (which is just a solo ride for 150 riders) in July. Other than the Delta Dental Mount Washington Road Race in June (an uphill-only running race), the road is privately owned and operated to support only paying vehicles. This is a grueling climb with an average grade of 12% that is not for the faint of heart.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I cycle directly within the Presidential Range-Dry River Wilderness?
No, touring cycling is not permitted directly within the federally designated Presidential Range-Dry River Wilderness. The Wilderness Act prohibits mechanical transport, including bicycles, to preserve its natural character. However, the surrounding areas offer exceptional no-traffic touring cycling experiences with stunning views of the Presidential Range.
What types of no-traffic touring cycling routes are available near the Presidential Range-Dry River Wilderness?
You'll find a mix of rail trails, forest roads, and some paved sections. Routes like the Presidential Rail Trail offer gently sloping paths, while the Northern White Mountains Loop combines rail trails with hilly seasonal gravel roads. For example, the Thorne Pond Loop is an easy option, while the Bartlett – Bartlett Village Gazebo Park loop from Bartlett is moderately challenging.
Are there family-friendly no-traffic touring cycling routes in the area?
Yes, routes like the Presidential Rail Trail are generally gently sloping and suitable for various cycling abilities, making them a good choice for families. The varied surfaces, from hard-packed stone dust to crushed gravel, are manageable for bikes with wider tires.
What kind of wildlife and scenic viewpoints can I expect on these routes?
Many routes, particularly those passing through areas like the Pondicherry Wildlife Refuge, offer excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing, including moose, black bears, coyotes, deer, and various bird species. You'll also encounter panoramic views of prominent peaks like Mount Washington, Mount Adams, and Mount Jefferson, as well as diverse landscapes including forests, bogs, and rivers. A scenic overlook at Cherry Pond is a notable stop for wildlife observation.
What are the typical distances and durations for no-traffic touring cycling routes here?
The routes vary in length and duration. For instance, the Thorne Pond Loop is a shorter ride at about 2.5 km, taking under 10 minutes. Longer routes like the Jackson Falls loop cover around 17.7 km and can take over an hour and a half, depending on your pace.
What attractions can I visit near the no-traffic touring cycling routes?
While cycling, you can enjoy views of the majestic Presidential Range. For specific points of interest, consider visiting highlights such as Mount Jackson Summit, Lake of the Clouds Hut and Lakes View, or Stairs Mountain Summit View. These offer stunning natural beauty and are often accessible via hiking trails from nearby areas.
When is the best time of year for no-traffic touring cycling in this region?
The spring, summer, and fall months generally offer the best conditions for touring cycling. Fall is particularly scenic with vibrant foliage. Some rail trails may be accessible in winter for fat biking, but conditions can be challenging and require specific equipment.
What type of bicycle is recommended for these routes?
Given the varied surfaces, which can include hard-packed stone dust, crushed gravel, and some grass or sand, bikes with wider tires such as hybrid, all-road, or mountain bikes are recommended. For routes like the Northern White Mountains Loop, 32mm tires or larger are suitable.
Are there any challenging no-traffic touring cycling routes?
Yes, while many routes are gentle, there are more challenging options. For example, the Mount Washington Auto Road Bicycle Hillclimb race route is classified as difficult, featuring a significant elevation gain of over 1400 meters.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about the no-traffic routes here?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the continuous views of the Presidential Range, the diverse ecosystems, and the peaceful, traffic-free experience that allows for immersion in nature.
Are there any circular no-traffic touring cycling routes available?
Yes, there are circular routes designed for touring cyclists. The Northern White Mountains Loop is a notable example, connecting rail trails and forest roads in a loop around the foothills of the Northern Presidential Range. The Jackson Falls loop is another circular option.
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