The best traffic-free bike rides in Harriman-Chandler State Forest

There are 4 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes listed in the Harriman-Chandler State Forest area. These routes offer a range of distances and difficulties, allowing you to enjoy the quiet landscapes away from busy roads.

The region, including the broader Mink Hills area, features a generally steep topography with elevations reaching up to 1,650 feet. You'll encounter quiet woods, streams, and historic stonewalls. While some routes might follow Class VI roads, expect varied surfaces and significant elevation changes, as indicated by routes like the Elkins Beach – Lake Sunapee loop from Warner with over 1,190 meters of elevation gain.

While many routes in the Harriman-Chandler State Forest area are rated moderate to difficult due to elevation changes, the Silver Lake – Cunningham Pond loop from Warner is categorized as moderate. This route is shorter, at approximately 22 km, and could be a more suitable option for families with some cycling experience looking for a less strenuous ride.

The Harriman-Chandler State Forest and adjacent Chandler Reservation are generally dog-friendly for outdoor activities. However, specific rules for cycling with dogs may vary. Always ensure your dog is on a leash and that you clean up after them. Be mindful of wildlife, as the area is home to bear, deer, fox, and other animals.

The routes traverse diverse landscapes characterized by northern hardwoods, red pine stands, wetlands, and vernal pools. You'll pass through quiet woods and along streams. The adjacent Chandler Reservation offers a self-guided 'Woods Walk' with interpretive stations highlighting logging landscapes, woodland waters, giant rocks, and stonewalls, providing insight into the natural and historical features of the broader area. While specific viewpoints are not listed for cycling routes, the elevated terrain offers scenic vistas.

Spring, summer, and fall generally offer the best conditions for touring cycling. Spring brings lush greenery, while fall showcases vibrant foliage, making for particularly scenic rides. Be aware that winter conditions, including snow and ice, can make many trails and Class VI roads impassable for cycling. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.

Many routes, such as the Blackwater Dam Flood Control Reservoir to Andover loop from Warner, start from Warner, NH. Parking is typically available in or near the town center or at designated trailheads. For specific parking information, it's advisable to check local resources or the starting point details of your chosen route.

Public transport options directly to the Harriman-Chandler State Forest or specific trailheads are limited. Most touring cyclists typically drive to the starting points, often in nearby towns like Warner, NH. Planning your trip with personal vehicle transport is generally recommended for convenience.

The routes vary significantly in length and duration. For example, the Tory Hill loop from Warner is approximately 27.8 km and takes around 2 hours and 6 minutes, while the Elkins Beach – Lake Sunapee loop from Warner is a much longer ride at about 94.2 km, requiring over 7 hours to complete.

The nearby town of Warner, NH, serves as a convenient base for exploring the area. You can find local cafes, restaurants, and accommodations there. The Follansbee Inn, for instance, is noted as being along routes popular with bikers, such as the Northern Rail Trail, suggesting a cycling-friendly environment in the broader region.

The routes in Harriman-Chandler State Forest are generally rated as moderate to difficult. Out of the four available routes, one is moderate, and three are difficult. This is largely due to the region's steep topography and significant elevation changes, making them suitable for cyclists with a good level of fitness and experience.