The best traffic-free bike rides in Hemenway State Forest

Komoot currently features 4 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes within Hemenway State Forest. These routes offer a variety of experiences, from moderate to difficult, ensuring options for different skill levels.

The best time for touring cycling in Hemenway State Forest is generally during the spring, summer, and especially autumn months. Autumn offers spectacular foliage, while spring and summer provide pleasant temperatures for exploring the ancient woodlands and along the Swift River. Always check local weather conditions before you go.

While all routes are designed to be traffic-free, the terrain in Hemenway State Forest can be varied. The route Chocorua Lake loop from The Grove is rated as moderate, making it a potentially more accessible option for families looking for a less strenuous ride compared to the more difficult routes.

Hemenway State Forest offers diverse and beautiful landscapes. You'll cycle through ancient woodlands, including the renowned Big Pines Natural Area with its towering Eastern white pines and giant hemlocks. Many routes also feature scenic sections along the Swift River, often crossing via wooden pedestrian bridges, and offer varied topography from gentle paths to ascents towards Great Hill.

Yes, Hemenway State Forest has several challenging routes. For experienced touring cyclists, consider the Great Hill Road – Sandwich Town Beach loop from Earle H. Remick Natural Area, which covers over 63 km with significant elevation gain, or the Cleveland Hill – Top of the World loop from Sandwich Town Forest, offering a demanding ride with rewarding views.

A significant landmark is Great Hill, which offers expansive views from its summit. A spur trail leads to an observation tower atop Great Hill, providing panoramic vistas of Tamworth, the Sandwich Range, and the Ossipee Mountains. The Big Pines Natural Area, with its ancient trees, is also a majestic sight to behold.

Yes, all the no-traffic touring cycling routes featured in Hemenway State Forest are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end your ride at the same point. This includes routes like the Chocorua Lake – Great Hill Road loop from Earle H. Remick Natural Area.

Given the varied terrain and potential for longer rides, it's advisable to bring plenty of water, snacks, a repair kit for your bike, and appropriate clothing layers. A helmet is essential, and a map or GPS device is recommended, even on well-maintained trails, to help navigate the forest's diverse paths.

Access points for these routes, such as Earle H. Remick Natural Area and Sandwich Town Forest, typically offer parking. It's always a good idea to check specific trailhead information for parking availability and any potential fees before your visit.

Activities in Hemenway State Forest are highly rated by visitors, with an average of 4.66 out of 5 stars. Cyclists often praise the serene environment of the ancient woodlands, the picturesque views along the Swift River, and the rewarding ascents to viewpoints like Great Hill, all while enjoying the peace of traffic-free routes.

Yes, the state of New Hampshire generally permits bicycling in state parks and forests, including Class 1 and 2 E-bikes on traditional bike trails. A general speed limit of 20 MPH applies. Always check for any specific local regulations or signage within Hemenway State Forest itself.