The best cycling routes in Crawford Notch State Park

Embark on a moderate touring cycling adventure through the scenic White Mountain National Forest with the Base Station Road & Mount Clinton Road loop. This route covers 15.7 miles (25.3 km) and includes a total elevation gain of 1322 feet (403 metres), offering a rewarding ride for cyclists with good fitness. As you pedal, you will pass the beautiful Ammonoosuc Waterfalls, providing a refreshing natural landmark along your journey. Expect to complete this loop in about 1 hour and 41 minutes, enjoying the varied terrain and mountain vistas.

Before you set out, it is important to check the current conditions of Mount Clinton Road. This section of the route can sometimes have challenging conditions, including potential sinkholes or washouts, and may be subject to seasonal closures. Being prepared for varying road surfaces, some of which might be unpaved, will ensure a smoother experience. Always verify road accessibility to avoid any unexpected detours or difficulties during your ride.

This touring cycling loop takes you through Crawford Notch State Park, where you can immerse yourself in the expansive White Mountain National Forest. The area is known for its spectacular mountain views and offers opportunities for wildlife viewing as you cycle. A unique feature along the route is the chance to see the terminus of the historic Mount Washington Cog Railway, adding a touch of local heritage to your outdoor exploration.

Embark on a challenging touring bicycle journey through the White Mountain National Forest with the Jackson Falls & Dundee Road loop. This difficult route stretches for 55.2 miles (88.9 km), demanding a significant effort as you gain 3648 feet (1112 metres) in elevation. You can expect to spend around 5 hours and 46 minutes navigating its varied terrain, which includes both paved sections and potentially unpaved dirt roads, particularly along Dundee Road. As you ride, you'll be treated to spectacular mountain vistas and the refreshing sight of several waterfalls, including the easily accessible Jackson Falls, fed by the Wildcat River.

This hard bike ride requires very good fitness, so plan your visit accordingly. While much of the route is paved, be ready for potential unpaved sections, especially on Dundee Road, which add a unique element to your ride. Parking for the Jackson Falls & Dundee Road loop is generally available within Crawford Notch State Park, making access straightforward. Ensure you are prepared for the duration and elevation gain before you set out.

The Jackson Falls & Dundee Road loop offers a rewarding experience within Crawford Notch State Park, characterized by its scenic variety. You will encounter numerous waterfalls along the way, with Jackson Falls being a prominent and easily accessible feature. The route's blend of paved and unpaved surfaces, combined with the dramatic mountain scenery, makes it a notable and memorable touring bicycle adventure in the region.

Embark on a memorable gravel cycling journey through the White Mountain National Forest with the Old Cherry Mountain Road, Valley Road, & Jefferson Notch Road gravel loop. This difficult 27.1-mile (43.6 km) route, which typically takes around 3 hours and 58 minutes, offers a diverse landscape, from quiet forested roads to open stretches with grand vistas of the Presidential Range. You'll navigate varied surfaces, including pavement, gravel, and dirt, and be treated to stunning views of Mount Washington from Valley Road, making every pedal stroke worthwhile.

Planning your ride requires attention to seasonal closures; Old Cherry Mountain Road and Jefferson Notch Road are typically closed to motorized vehicles from late fall to mid-to-late spring. This window often provides the best conditions for a quieter ride, though you should still be cautious of active logging operations. Given the mixed terrain, including chunky and loose gravel, robust tires of 32mm or wider are highly recommended to ensure a smooth and safe experience.

This loop stands out for its historical significance, with Old Cherry Mountain Road once part of the Jefferson Turnpike, an early 19th-century toll road. It also includes Jefferson Notch Road, the highest public highway in New Hampshire, providing unique high-altitude views. Beyond the challenging climbs and scenic beauty, the route offers abundant birdwatching opportunities and a chance to experience the rich ecosystems of the White Mountain National Forest, making it a notable regional ride for serious gravel cyclists.

The Lower Falls Trail offers a delightful touring cycling experience, winding alongside the scenic Frankstown Branch of the Juniata River. You'll ride on a well-maintained, hard-packed rolled crushed limestone surface, occasionally passing through sections of smooth asphalt. The route is often enveloped by a 'green tunnel' of trees, providing continuous river views and ample opportunities for birdwatching and spotting local wildlife like deer and turkeys. It's an easy, flat ride, making it ideal for a relaxed spin.

This 1.6-mile (2.6 km) route features a minimal 85 feet (26 metres) of elevation gain, making it an easy ride that takes approximately 10 minutes to complete. The trail is well-equipped with multiple trailheads, offering convenient parking, chemical toilets, and picnic pavilions, so planning your visit is simple. No permits are required, and its gentle nature means it's enjoyable at any time of day, though early mornings might offer the best chance to see animals.

What truly sets the Lower Falls Trail apart is its rich historical significance; it traces part of the original towpath of the Pennsylvania Main Line Canal and later a section of the Pennsylvania Railroad system. You'll encounter remnants of the canal era, including old locks and the Mount Etna Furnace, adding a fascinating historical layer to your ride. Designated a National Recreation Trail, it's also recognized as an Important Birding Area, highlighting its ecological value and making it a prime spot for nature observation.