Presidential Range-Dry River Wilderness
Presidential Range-Dry River Wilderness
The best traffic-free bike rides in Presidential Range-Dry River Wilderness
5.0
(2)
215
riders
3
rides
Road cycling in Presidential Range-Dry River Wilderness offers routes that navigate the perimeter of a rugged landscape characterized by high ridgelines, diverse forests, and significant elevation changes. The region features prominent peaks, including Mount Washington, and is shaped by glacial features like Oakes Gulf. While the wilderness itself is primarily for hiking, adjacent areas provide no traffic road cycling routes with views of the formidable Presidential Range. These routes often traverse varied terrain, from forested sections to open areas offering panoramic mountain vistas.
Best no traffic road cycling routes in Presidential Range-Dry River Wilderness
- The most popular no traffic road cycling route is Mount Washington Auto Road Bicycle Hillclimb race course, a 7.8 miles (12.5 km) trail that takes 2 hours 2 minutes to complete. This difficult route features a significant elevation gain of 4636 feet (1413 m) as it ascends Mount Washington.
- Another top favourite among local road cyclists is Jackson Falls loop from Sandquist Preserve, a moderate 10.3 miles (16.6 km) path. This route offers a loop through varied terrain with an elevation gain of 797 feet (243 m).
- Local road cyclists also love the Jackson Falls & Middle Mountain loop, a 6.1 miles (9.8 km) trail leading through forested areas and offering views of the surrounding hills, often completed in about 42 minutes.
- Road cycling in Presidential Range-Dry River Wilderness is defined by challenging mountain ascents, forested roads, and views of alpine tundra, with options for moderate and difficult routes.
- The routes in Presidential Range-Dry River Wilderness are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 3 reviews. More than 200 road cyclists have used komoot to explore Presidential Range-Dry River Wilderness's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 29, 2026
5
riders
28.4km
01:30
530m
530m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(1)
68
riders
12.5km
02:02
1,410m
20m
Prepare for a truly demanding road cycling challenge on the Mount Washington Auto Road Bicycle Hillclimb race course. This difficult route spans 7.8 miles (12.5 km) and demands an impressive 4636 feet (1413 metres) of elevation gain. As you climb, you will pass through dense forested areas before breaking out above the tree line, where the landscape dramatically shifts to unique alpine scenery. The views become increasingly spectacular as you approach the Mount Washington Summit, offering expansive panoramas on a clear day, a well-earned reward for your effort. You can expect to complete this ascent in about 2 hours and 2 minutes.
Planning your ride on this iconic course requires careful attention to its unique access rules. The Mount Washington Auto Road is typically closed to cyclists, opening only twice a year for bicycle traffic: once for the annual hill climb race in August and again for a practice ride in July. It is crucial to know that descending the Auto Road by bicycle is strictly forbidden. You must arrange for a driver to meet you at the summit to transport you back down. Always be prepared for extreme weather conditions at the summit, as it is known for cold temperatures and powerful winds.
This route is widely considered a bucket-list item for road cyclists due to its formidable nature and stunning vistas. Located within Mount Washington State Park, the climb is a true test of endurance, drawing athletes from around the world. The transformation of the landscape from lush forest to a rugged, wind-swept alpine environment makes this a memorable experience, setting it apart as one of the most challenging and rewarding climbs in the region.
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1
riders
9.76km
00:42
330m
330m
Cycle the moderate 6.1-mile Jackson Falls & Middle Mountain loop, gaining 1073 feet with scenic views of Jackson Falls.
7
riders
27.9km
01:09
130m
130m
Moderate road ride. Great for any fitness level. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
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Tips from the Community
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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The 'Echo Lake' in the 'State Park' of the same name is very popular as a swimming lake in the summer months. A panoramic path leads around the lake; the place is also the starting point for hikes to the rocky cliffs 'Cathedral Ledge' and 'White Horse Ledge' with a spectacular view of the 'Saco River Valley'. https://www.nhstateparks.org/find-parks-trails/echo-lake-state-park
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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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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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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic road cycling routes are available in the Presidential Range-Dry River Wilderness?
There are a few dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes within or immediately adjacent to the Presidential Range-Dry River Wilderness. Our guide features 3 routes, ranging from moderate to difficult, designed for road cyclists seeking quieter paths.
What is the general difficulty level of no-traffic road cycling routes in this region?
The no-traffic road cycling routes in the Presidential Range-Dry River Wilderness area offer a mix of challenges. You'll find 2 moderate routes, such as the Jackson Falls loop from Sandquist Preserve, and 1 difficult route, like the demanding Mount Washington Auto Road Bicycle Hillclimb race course, which features significant elevation gain.
Are there any family-friendly no-traffic road cycling options in the Presidential Range-Dry River Wilderness?
While the designated Wilderness area is rugged, the surrounding region offers options like the Presidential Range Rail Trail, which is suitable for bicycles and provides a calmer environment. For specific routes in our guide, the Jackson Falls loop from Sandquist Preserve and the Jackson Falls & Middle Mountain loop are rated moderate and could be suitable for families with some cycling experience, offering scenic views without heavy traffic.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see along these routes?
The routes offer stunning views of the Presidential Range, diverse forests that are particularly vibrant in autumn, and glimpses of the unique alpine tundra. You might also encounter features like the Dry River, despite its name, which carves through the wilderness. The Jackson Falls loop from Sandquist Preserve, for instance, provides access to beautiful natural scenery.
Are there any notable landmarks or points of interest near the no-traffic cycling routes?
Yes, the region is rich in natural landmarks. While cycling, you'll be near iconic summits such as Mount Jackson Summit and Mount Isolation. You might also pass by areas offering views of Lake of the Clouds Hut, a popular spot for alpine views.
What is the best time of year for no-traffic road cycling in the Presidential Range-Dry River Wilderness?
The best time for road cycling is typically from late spring through early autumn. Autumn is particularly spectacular due to the vibrant northern hardwood forests. While the Dry River can be swift from snowmelt well into summer, the main cycling routes are generally clear. Winter cycling is challenging due to extreme weather conditions and snow.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about cycling in this area?
The komoot community highly rates the cycling experience here, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Reviewers often praise the challenging ascents, the stunning panoramic views of the Presidential Range, and the opportunity to experience the region's natural beauty on quieter roads.
Are there any loop routes for no-traffic road cycling?
Yes, our guide includes loop options. For example, the Jackson Falls & Middle Mountain loop offers a scenic circular ride, allowing you to start and end at the same point while enjoying the area's beauty.
What kind of wildlife might I encounter while cycling?
The region is home to diverse wildlife. Cyclists on routes adjacent to the wilderness, such as the Presidential Range Rail Trail, might spot deer, moose, and black bears, as well as various bird species, especially near areas like the Pondicherry Wildlife Refuge.
Is parking available for these no-traffic road cycling routes?
Parking availability varies by route. For routes like the Jackson Falls loop from Sandquist Preserve, you would typically look for parking near the designated starting points or trailheads. It's always recommended to check specific route details for parking information before your ride.
Are there any particularly challenging no-traffic road cycling routes for experienced riders?
Absolutely. The Mount Washington Auto Road Bicycle Hillclimb race course is a difficult route designed for experienced cyclists, featuring a significant elevation gain of over 1400 meters in just 12.5 kilometers, offering a true test of endurance and breathtaking views.
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