The best road cycling routes around Bethel

The Evan's Notch from Bethel loop offers a truly immersive road cycling experience through the White Mountain National Forest, where you'll navigate diverse terrain and soak in stunning mountain views. Expect to climb through thick forests that burst with color in autumn, eventually reaching expansive vistas at the top of Evan's Notch. The route provides a serene atmosphere, allowing you to connect deeply with the wilderness, far from the crowds of more popular passes. You'll find yourself cycling alongside a scenic river on the north side, a pleasant contrast to the challenging climbs.

This moderate 43.0-mile (69.2 km) road cycling loop, with its 2880 feet (878 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 3 hours and 15 minutes. It's a fantastic option for spring, summer, or fall, with autumn foliage being a particular highlight. The roads are mostly well-paved, though some sections can be narrow and winding. The south side of Evan's Notch is notably steeper, with gradients around 10%, so be ready for a sustained effort.

What makes this route stand out is its relative solitude and status as a classic northern New England ride. Beyond the cycling, you might even find opportunities for wild swimming at spots like Frenchman's Hole along the river on the north side. It's a journey that combines physical challenge with profound natural beauty, making it a memorable addition to any cyclist's list.

The Cross New Hampshire Adventure Trail Loop offers a truly diverse cycling experience, winding through river valleys and past historic covered bridges. You'll traverse a mix of paved and unpaved surfaces, from hard-packed stone dust to rough gravel, with views of the Presidential Mountain Range and the chance to spot wildlife near the Androscoggin River. It's a moderate 38.5-mile (61.9 km) route that feels like a true New England adventure, best suited for bikes with wider tires.

While the Komoot data suggests racebikes, this 2-hour and 35-minute loop is definitely not for skinny-tired road bikes; a gravel bike, hybrid, or mountain bike is highly recommended due to the varied terrain. With 1485 feet (453 metres) of elevation gain, you'll encounter some steady climbs and rougher sections. Look for the ten fixed bike repair stations along the route, and consider visiting in June for lupine blooms or October for fall foliage.

This loop is part of the larger 83-mile Cross New Hampshire Adventure Trail, designed to connect communities and offer safer, off-road travel. It incorporates former rail lines, adding a historical dimension to your ride. The trail's multi-use nature means you'll share it with walkers and runners, and it's a great way to explore the northern White Mountains region and its charming towns.

The concept of an Intervale Gateway Nature Reserve to North Pond loop for road cycling presents a bit of a puzzle, as a dedicated, continuous route under this name isn't widely recognized. While the Intervale Preserve itself is a serene spot with flood plain marshes and vernal pools, its dirt and boardwalk trails are best suited for walking, not road bikes. However, if you were to explore the general vicinity, you might find scenic paved sections around various "North Pond" locations, offering glimpses of lakes, forests, and diverse wildlife, depending on where you are.

For those considering this 26.0-mile (41.9 km) route with 972 feet (296 metres) of elevation gain, rated easy and estimated to take 1 hour and 49 minutes, careful planning is essential. You'll need to research specific road conditions and confirm the suitability of surfaces for road cycling, as many areas named "Intervale" or "North Pond" are unpaved or singletrack. Always check for local access rules, parking, and any seasonal considerations before heading out.

This route, as mapped, offers an intriguing idea for a ride, but it highlights the importance of verifying trail types. While the Intervale Preserve is a haven for birdwatching, other "North Pond" areas, such as those with paved paths in urban parks or dedicated touring loops, could provide a pleasant road cycling experience. It's a route that demands a bit of adventurous spirit and thorough reconnaissance to ensure a smooth ride.