The best traffic-free bike rides in Hamel State Forest

The Hamel State Forest area, part of the broader New Hampshire Lakes Region, offers a selection of 5 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes. These routes range from easy to difficult, providing options for various skill levels.

Yes, there is an easy route perfect for families or those seeking a relaxed ride. The Fish Cove loop from Meredith is a great option, offering a gentle 18.6 km ride with minimal elevation gain, ideal for a leisurely outing.

The routes in the Hamel State Forest area, particularly within the Lakes Region, feature a mix of terrain. While some sections, like the prominent WOW Trail, are paved and mostly flat, you can also expect rolling hills and varied landscapes. For example, the Lake Winnisquam Scenic Trail – Canterbury Shaker Village loop from Laconia is a more challenging ride with over 1000 meters of elevation gain, offering a dynamic cycling experience.

Cyclists can enjoy extensive lake views, notably of Lake Winnisquam and Lake Wicwas. The routes often pass through managed woodlands and wetlands, providing a serene backdrop. The Lake Winnisquam Scenic Trail – WOW Trail (Winnisquam segment) loop from Lakeport offers picturesque lake vistas and follows the dedicated multi-use WOW Trail, built on an old rail bed.

While Hamel State Forest itself is a smaller woodland, its location in the Laconia area means you're close to regional amenities. Specific public transport options directly to trailheads may be limited, so planning your journey, potentially involving a car for the initial approach, is recommended. For general information on local conservation lands, you can visit laconianh.gov.

The Lakes Region offers beautiful cycling conditions from spring through fall. Spring brings fresh greenery, while autumn showcases stunning foliage. Cyclists should be aware that some forest roads might experience seasonal closures, particularly during winter and 'mud season' in early spring, so checking local conditions before heading out is advisable.

Yes, several routes are designed as loops. For instance, the WOW Trail (Winnisquam segment) – Lake Winnisquam Scenic Trail loop from Laconia provides a moderate 48 km circular ride, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your path.

Given the routes often start from towns like Laconia, Lakeport, or Meredith, you'll typically find parking available in or near these communities. Many routes incorporate sections of the WOW Trail, which often has designated parking areas at its access points. Always check local signage for specific parking regulations.

The Hamel State Forest area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 3.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the quiet roads, extensive lake views, and the dedicated, paved sections of the WOW Trail that offer a truly traffic-free experience. The variety of routes, from easy loops to more challenging rides like the Belmont Covered Bridge loop from Laconia, is also frequently highlighted.

Yes, being part of the Laconia area and close to popular spots like Weirs Beach, cyclists have access to various amenities. Towns along the routes, such as Laconia and Meredith, offer cafes, pubs, and restaurants for convenient stops. You'll also find accommodation options ranging from hotels to guesthouses in these communities, making it easy to plan multi-day cycling trips.