The best road cycling routes in Kearsarge Mountain State Forest
142
riders
18
rides
Road cycling in Kearsarge Mountain State Forest, New Hampshire, traverses a diverse landscape characterized by extensive forested terrain and notable elevation changes. The region features the prominent Mount Kearsarge, offering challenging climbs and panoramic summit vistas. Road cyclists can expect a mix of mostly paved surfaces and varied routes, including those around lakes and through woodlands. The area provides a comprehensive outdoor experience with its natural features and access to state parks.
Best road cycling routes in Kearsarge Mountain State Forest
- The most popular road cycling route is Kezar, Little Sunapee, and Pleasant Lake loop, a 27.4 miles (44.1 km) trail that takes 1 hour 59 minutes to complete. This route offers views of several lakes in the Merrimack County area.
- Another top favourite among local road cyclists is Tory Hill – Mount Kearsarge State Forest loop from Warner Town Forest, a moderate 13.1 miles (21.0 km) path. This route explores forested terrain with significant elevation changes.
- Local road cyclists also love the Elkins Beach – Elkins Beach loop from Tannery Pond, a 19.2 miles (30.9 km) trail leading through the Elkins Beach area, often completed in about 1 hour 25 minutes.
- Road cycling in Kearsarge Mountain State Forest is defined by forested terrain, challenging climbs, and scenic lake views. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy loops to demanding ascents.
- The guide includes highly-rated routes that showcase the best of the region's landscape. More than 90 road cyclists have used komoot to explore Kearsarge Mountain State Forest's varied terrain.
Last updated: November 11, 2026
30
riders
21.3km
01:17
560m
560m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
7
riders
44.1km
01:59
410m
410m
If you're seeking a road cycling adventure that combines quintessential New England scenery with a satisfying workout, the Kezar, Little Sunapee, and Pleasant Lake loop is an excellent choice. This moderate 27.4-mile (44.1 km) route takes you along the picturesque shorelines of three beautiful lakes, offering stunning views and a diverse riding experience. You'll encounter a mix of smooth pavement and potentially some gravel or dirt sections, winding through rolling hills with a total elevation gain of 1344 feet (410 metres).
Plan for a ride lasting around 1 hour and 58 minutes, making it a great option for a morning or afternoon excursion. The area is particularly famous for its vibrant fall foliage, so autumn is an exceptional time to visit for breathtaking colors. While specific parking isn't detailed, starting points in charming New England villages often provide convenient access and amenities.
This loop stands out for its ability to combine multiple lake views with classic country roads, offering a varied terrain analysis for cyclists. You'll pass by notable natural features like Bucklin Beach and Chase Pond, providing plenty of scenic viewpoints. The route is a fantastic way to experience the diverse landscapes of New Hampshire, especially if you appreciate a ride that balances challenge with visual reward.
8
riders
30.9km
01:25
230m
230m
Moderate road ride. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
6
riders
42.8km
01:55
420m
420m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4
riders
8.96km
00:23
80m
80m
The Pleasant Lake loop and Elkins Beach offers a delightful road cycling experience, tracing the shores of Pleasant Lake with continuous, scenic views. You'll pedal along mostly well-paved asphalt surfaces, enjoying the quiet, forested New Hampshire landscapes. Keep an eye out for Elkins Beach, a sandy inlet that makes for a perfect stopping point to appreciate the water.
This is an easy 5.6-mile (9.0 km) road cycling route with a gentle 255 feet (78 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 23 minutes to complete. No permits or fees are required, and the route is enjoyable throughout the warmer months, with fall foliage being a particularly beautiful time to visit. The nearby village of Elkins offers convenient amenities.
This family-friendly bike route is ideal for those seeking a relaxed ride without significant physical demands. It briefly intersects with other trails like the Sunapee-Ragged-Kearsarge Greenway, offering potential for longer adventures, but the loop itself is a self-contained, easy ride for all fitness levels.
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Popular around Kearsarge Mountain State Forest
Tips from the Community
A small park in Sutton, Mildred T. Leffert Natural Area, is ideally placed beside Kezar Lake for a wonderful outdoor experience.
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Little Sunapee Lake is a pretty lake along Little Sunapee Road, a mostly flat road in a quiet residential area. This is a scenic spot in this otherwise urban area.
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Chase Pond is a small freshwater pond off of Village Road in Wilmot, New Hampshire. This is a nice spot to look out for birds, waterfowl, turtle, frogs, and other animals as you ride by.
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This beach is a great spot to cool off or hop in the water for a swim — as long as you stay within the marked areas. Beach staff are available only during the summer (they will not be on site after Labor Day) and no dogs or other pets are allowed.
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If you're looking for a nice nature walk in an urban setting, walking around Little Sunapee Lake is a good choice. Although you'll be walking on the roadside it's a quiet, mostly flat byway that you might find yourself sharing with runners and bikers — and of course the gorgeous backdrop of the lake.
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Both the road and the lake live up to their "pleasant" name. The road is pretty quiet (although you need to watch out for slower cyclists and even walkers and runners) and you will catch some really nice glimpses of the lake through the trees.
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This is about as nice as an urban walk can get: The road is flat, easy and relatively quiet, with great views of Pleasant Lake through the trees. Keep an eye out for runners and bikers who may have the same plans as you do.
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The loop around Kezar Lake is a fine way to take in fall foliage as you stretch your legs. This is technically a road run, but the terrain will keep you on your toes with a mix of pavement, gravel and dirt. At the south end of the lake you'll find Wadleigh State Park, which even has a small beach.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the overall terrain like for road cycling in Kearsarge Mountain State Forest?
Kearsarge Mountain State Forest offers a diverse road cycling experience, characterized by extensive forested terrain and notable elevation changes. You'll find a mix of mostly paved surfaces, from gentle loops around lakes to demanding ascents up Mount Kearsarge itself. The landscape includes woodlands, granite ledges, and scenic areas, providing varied scenery throughout your ride.
Are there challenging road cycling routes for experienced cyclists?
Yes, Kearsarge Mountain State Forest is home to some very challenging climbs. The ascent of Mount Kearsarge via Kearsarge Mountain Road is particularly notable, covering approximately 3.5 miles with an average grade of 8% and sections reaching up to 22%. This demanding route, entirely within the State Forest, offers a significant test for experienced cyclists.
Are there any easy or beginner-friendly road cycling routes in the area?
Yes, the region offers options suitable for various skill levels, including easy routes. For instance, the Pleasant Lake loop and Elkins Beach — New London, New Hampshire is an easy 5.6-mile route that provides a pleasant ride with minimal elevation gain.
What natural features or landmarks can I expect to see while road cycling?
Road cycling in Kearsarge Mountain State Forest offers access to stunning natural features. From the summit of Mount Kearsarge, you can enjoy outstanding panoramic views of nearby mountains and, on clear days, even distant peaks like Mt. Monadnock and the White Mountains. You might also observe glacial features like striations and erratics, and the region is known for its abundant wildlife and scenic waterfalls, particularly on Mountain Brook near Black Mountain.
Are there any loop routes available for road cyclists?
Yes, many road cycling routes in Kearsarge Mountain State Forest are designed as loops. A popular option is the Kezar, Little Sunapee, and Pleasant Lake loop — Merrimack County, New Hampshire, a moderate 27.4-mile route that showcases several lakes in the area. Another great loop is the Tory Hill loop from Warner, offering a moderate 17.9-mile ride with significant elevation.
What is the best time of year for road cycling in Kearsarge Mountain State Forest?
The best time for road cycling in Kearsarge Mountain State Forest is generally from late spring through early autumn. During these seasons, the weather is typically mild, and the forested terrain is vibrant. Fall offers spectacular foliage, making it a particularly scenic time to ride, though some roads may be busier. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.
Is parking available for road cyclists accessing routes in Kearsarge Mountain State Forest?
Yes, access points like Rollins State Park and Winslow State Park, located on the southern and northern sides of Mount Kearsarge respectively, serve as convenient starting points for both hiking and cycling. These parks typically offer parking facilities for visitors.
How many road cycling routes are available in Kearsarge Mountain State Forest?
There are over 15 road cycling routes available in Kearsarge Mountain State Forest, catering to various skill levels. These routes range from easy loops to challenging mountain ascents, ensuring there's something for every road cyclist.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about the routes in Kearsarge Mountain State Forest?
Road cyclists frequently praise the diverse experiences offered, from the challenging and rewarding climb up Kearsarge Mountain Road to the scenic loops around lakes. The panoramic views from the summit, the unique glacial formations, and the overall natural beauty of the forested landscapes are often highlighted as key attractions.
Are there any routes that explore specific towns or local areas?
Yes, some routes venture through or near local towns and points of interest. For example, the Sutton Town Forest and Wetland – Elkins Beach loop from Andover is a moderate 30.3-mile path that explores the area around Sutton Town Forest and Elkins Beach, providing varied scenery and a glimpse into the local landscape.
Can I find routes that offer views of lakes?
Absolutely. The region is dotted with beautiful lakes, and several road cycling routes incorporate them into their scenic paths. The Kezar, Little Sunapee, and Pleasant Lake loop — Merrimack County, New Hampshire is a prime example, offering continuous views of multiple lakes throughout its 27.4-mile course.
Most popular routes in Kearsarge Mountain State Forest
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