Lake Sunapee

Embark on the Lake Sunapee loop for a classic New England touring bicycle experience, offering picturesque views of the lake's shoreline and charming villages. This moderate route covers 20.3 miles (32.7 km) with a total elevation gain of 1380 feet (420 metres), making for a rewarding ride. You can expect to complete the loop in about 2 hours and 8 minutes, enjoying rolling terrain that combines paved roads with some potential unpaved sections as you pass through wooded areas and wetlands.

When planning your visit, you will find parking typically available in the towns surrounding Lake Sunapee, providing convenient access to begin your ride. While the loop itself is generally on paved surfaces, be aware that other routes in the broader Lake Sunapee area might include unpaved sections. Always check local conditions before heading out, especially if you plan to explore beyond this specific loop, to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey.

The Lake Sunapee loop stands out for its natural beauty, particularly as it guides you through the Sunapee Wildlife Management Area. This area offers a chance to immerse yourself in the region's diverse ecosystems, from dense woodlands to tranquil wetlands. The route provides a unique opportunity to experience the serene atmosphere and varied landscapes that define this part of New Hampshire, making it a notable destination for touring cyclists.

The Lake Sunapee – Kezar Lake loop from Lot 1 is an advanced cycling challenge, taking you on a demanding 80.4 miles (129.4 km) journey through picturesque New England scenery. You'll encounter extensive lakeside views of Lake Sunapee and Kezar Lake, winding through charming villages and serene northern hardwood-conifer forests. With 5799 feet (1767 metres) of elevation gain and an estimated duration of 10 hours and 14 minutes, this difficult touring cycling route is a true test of endurance and a rewarding exploration of the region.

Planning your visit for this substantial ride means starting from Lot 1, which is the designated trailhead within Sunapee State Park. This route is highly rated by the Komoot cycling community, indicating a memorable experience for those who undertake it. Be sure to prepare for a full day on the bike, as the varied terrain includes challenging climbs and some unpaved sections.

This loop stands out as the most popular no-traffic touring cycling route in Sunapee State Park, offering a unique blend of mountain and lakeside vistas. It's a genuine exploration of the region's natural beauty and local character, making it one of the best cycling trails in the Lake Sunapee Kezar Lake area for those seeking a significant adventure.

Embark on a memorable touring cycling journey through the heart of New Hampshire with the Bement Covered Bridge – Lake Todd loop from Newbury. This difficult 42.7-mile (68.8 km) route, featuring 2544 feet (775 metres) of elevation gain and an estimated duration of 4 hours and 27 minutes, immerses you in a landscape of historic covered bridges, tranquil lake views, and charming rural roads. You'll pedal past the iconic Bement Covered Bridge, a true piece of local history, before enjoying the dedicated multi-use path along Lake Todd, offering a mix of paved and stone dust surfaces that keep the ride engaging.

Planning your ride on this Newbury NH cycling route means preparing for varied terrain and significant climbs. While specific trailhead parking for the entire loop isn't detailed, you can typically find access in the Newbury and Bradford areas. The Tilley Wheeler Trail section is open year-round, but the best time of year to cycle the full loop for optimal conditions and scenery is generally from late spring through early fall. Always ensure your touring bike is equipped for mixed surfaces, especially the stone dust sections, and carry enough water for this substantial outing.

What makes this loop stand out is its blend of cultural heritage and modern cycling infrastructure. The Bement Covered Bridge, built in 1854, is a registered historic place, adding a unique charm to your ride. The Lake Todd Bridge, part of the Tilley Wheeler Trail, was specifically developed to provide a safe cycling option, memorializing a cyclist and offering a welcome alternative to busier roads. This commitment to safe cycling, combined with the picturesque New Hampshire landmarks, makes it one of the best touring cycling routes in the Lake Todd area.