Presidential Rail Trail near Cherry Pond

Embark on a challenging touring bicycle adventure along the Presidential Rail Trail, a difficult route spanning 35.5 miles (57.2 km) with an elevation gain of 1161 feet (354 metres). You can expect to complete this journey in about 5 hours and 24 minutes, cycling through varied landscapes. As you pedal, you'll pass through forests, bogs, and pastures, enjoying views of the Presidential Mountain Range and the Kilkenny Range, especially from the Pondicherry Wildlife Refuge.

When planning your visit, be aware that the trail's surface includes gravel, crushed stone, and some rougher sections. For this reason, bikes with wider tires, such as hybrid or gravel bikes, are highly recommended; road bikes with skinny tires are not suitable for the terrain. You will find several parking lots conveniently located along the trail's length, making it easy to access and start your ride from various points.

This route follows old railway lines, offering a unique perspective on the White Mountain National Forest. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including moose and black bears, as you follow rivers like the Israel and Moose. The trail is particularly scenic in summer with abundant wildflowers, and transforms into a spectacular display of foliage during the fall months.

The Presidential Rail Trail Loop offers a delightful touring cycling experience through the scenic northern White Mountains. You'll pedal past wetlands and ponds, including Cherry Pond with its observation deck, all while enjoying panoramic views of the Presidential Range. The route follows old railway lines, providing a journey through diverse natural environments and a chance to spot local wildlife.

This moderate 17.2-mile (27.7 km) loop, with a gentle 373 feet (114 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 2 hours and 33 minutes. The surface varies from packed stone dust to coarser gravel and grassy sections, so a hybrid or mountain bike is ideal. Trailheads are available at both ends, and the Pondicherry trailhead offers a kiosk and porta-potty, making it a convenient starting point.

Part of the larger Cross New Hampshire Adventure Trail, this route is a fantastic way to explore the region's natural beauty and history. It's a multi-use path, so you might share it with hikers or equestrians, and some sections near Gorham are open to OHRVs. Keep an eye out for moose, beavers, and a variety of bird species as you ride.

The Cherry Pond and Presidential Rail Trail Loop offers a delightful touring cycling experience through diverse landscapes, making it one of the most popular cycling trails in the White Mountains, NH. You'll pedal along former railroad beds, enjoying stunning views of the Presidential, Pliny, and Cherry mountain ranges, and traverse beautiful wetlands and marshes. The route is an easy 8.1 miles (13.0 km) with a gentle 373 feet (114 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 1 hours and 1 minutes to complete, perfect for a relaxed outing.

For planning your visit, note that while much of the Presidential Rail Trail is smooth, some sections can be gravelly or bumpy, so a gravel bike is recommended for optimal comfort. The trail is particularly flat near Cherry Pond, making it family-friendly. Consider visiting during the spring or fall for the best weather and wildlife viewing opportunities, especially around the Cherry Pond viewing platform.

This loop is a gem for wildlife enthusiasts, passing through the Silvio O. Conte National Fish and Wildlife Refuge and the Pondicherry Wildlife Refuge. You might spot diverse bird species like loons and great blue herons, and even larger animals such as moose or beavers. The trail's heritage as a railroad bed adds a unique historical dimension to your ride.