Best Bike Trails In New Hampshire

Northern New Hampshire Biking Trails

Northern New Hampshire’s mountain bike trails span for hundreds of miles, ranging from well groomed carriage roads, reclaimed rail trails, dirt logging roads, and challenging single track. There is no shortage of heart pumping fun to be found in this gorgeous region. 

For those who prefer paved biking paths, New Hampshire has made sure that every major road is a designated scenic byway so you’ll have no shortage of stunning views while you crank along. 

Be sure to check out the New Hampshire bike trails map above for not only a list of places to ride, but also a complete list of area restaurants and lodging for your post ride celebration! 

You earned it!!

Coos Trails

Located in downtown Gorham NH, Coos Trails is a fantastic spot to ride with easy access to lodging and dozens of fantastic restaurants in town without having to get off your bike. The Coos Cycling Club is the locally based volunteer non-profit which maintains this excellent 22 mile trail network. The Coos Trails system includes a variety of trails ranging from beginner-friendly loops to more challenging singletrack routes. There is a free online map available on their website here www.cooscyclingclub.org. These trails wind through stunningly diverse terrain, including deep green forests, flower filled fields, and rolling hills which provide riders with a great mix of breathtaking scenery that is ever changing. Trails within the Coos Trails system are marked with difficulty ratings to help riders choose routes appropriate for their skill level. Beginners can find gentle, well-groomed trails with minimal obstacles, while more advanced riders can seek out technical descents, rocky sections, and steeper climbs like the trails up Pine Mountain. 

Insider Tip: Be sure to stop at Big Day Brewing for some Apre’ food and beverages. The Coos Trail system pops out in their main parking lot. It’s worth a visit!

Parker Mountain Trails

PRKR MTN Trails is situated in the adorable New England town of Littleton NH. The trailhead is conveniently located just a short drive from downtown at the end of School Street, making it easily accessible to both locals and visitors alike. PRKR MTN Trails maintains 25 miles of well-maintained trails in their 1000 acre system that wind through a variety of terrain, including lush forest, open meadows, and fun single track slopes. The trail system has options for riders of all abilities, and are marked with difficulty ratings, allowing riders to choose which type of riding they want on the day. 

An online Trail Map can be found on their website: www.prkrmtn.wordpress.com

The town of Littleton itself has A TON of things to do from food, to art, and everything in between. So after a fun day ripping on your bike, your adventure doesn’t have to end there! We hope you’ll visit our Northern NH paved bike paths and off-road trails soon! 

Great Glen Trails

Great Glen Trails is located within Northern NH’s gorgeous Pinkham Notch alongside its neighbors Wildcat Ski Area, the famous Tuckerman Ravine, AMC Joe Dodge Lodge, and Dolly Copp Campground. Its trail system is perfectly nestled at the feet of Mt. Washington and the other mighty Northern Presidentials provide riders with one of the most spectacular views in New England.

Like many White Mountain biking trails in NH, Great Glen Trails features a well-developed network of trails suitable for riders of all abilities. They have 20 km of smooth carriage roads for easy riding as well as an additional 25 km of challenging single track excitement. All of these trails transform into well groomed skate and classic cross-country skiing as well as fat bike trails in the winter. 

The trails at Great Glen Trails are marked with difficulty ratings and fun trail names, allowing riders to choose routes that match their abilities and preferences and navigate with ease. If you don’t have your own bike with you, no worries, they offer bike rentals in their retail shop. 

The Outdoor Center at Great Glen Trails offers a range of facilities and amenities to enhance their  visitors’ experience. A new boutique 68 room hotel called The Glen House was built on site with direct trail access and offers guests the opportunity to dine on their back deck and take in that view we mentioned before. Also, The Mount Washington Auto Road is on property which allows visitors to drive to the 6,288 foot summit of Mt. Washington or take a guided tour. 

Bethlehem Trails

Located in Bethlehem, New Hampshire, Bethlehem Trails offers 25+ miles of mountain biking fun. Their free online bike trail map for The White Mountains can be found here: 

www.bethlehemtrails.org/maps-conditions

Bethlehem, located in the White Mountain region of Northern New Hampshire, sits between Littleton and Bretton Woods and is a treasure unto itself. With great food options like The Maia Papaya and Rek’Lis Brewing, make sure not to pack a lunch, you won’t need it.

Bethlehem trails is volunteer based and extremely community oriented. Their mission, starting in 2016, was to create trails they everyone could enjoy. Where friends and family can meet, share stories,and simply ride bikes together. But, for those families and friends that like to rip down 1200 vertical feet of glorious single track….they have you covered. 

Insider Tip: There is an awesome  “Gear Library” located at Rek’Lis Brewing Co, 2085 Main St, for anyone needing gear to borrow. It’s just like a regular library, except full of outdoor gear like bikes, hiking poles, backpack, and more. All free and all donated with love. When you return it at the end of the day,  you might as well grab something to eat at Rek’Lis … .we mean…you’ll already be there:) 

Cross NH Adventure Trail

The name says it all. This 83 mile adventure takes you from NH border to NH border. Mostly composed of smooth gravel roads and old railroad beds you will experience minimal elevation gain along this amazing ride. The xNH Adventure Trail brings you from Woodsville VT through 11 beautiful White Mountain towns (offering stunning views of the White Mountains) and eventually leading you to Bethel Maine. If you are in shape it can be done in a day, but where is the fun in that? Most riders decide to stay a night or two to enjoy all that Northern NH has to offer before continuing onto the Cross VT Trail or eventually deeper into Maine (as plans are underway to keep the ride heading east). Eventually, the hope is to have all of these cross state bike paths connected and with the passion that the xNHAT founder has….we are sure that it will happen.

Mountain biking in NH grew its roots in the 1970s when cyclists began modifying their bikes to handle off-road terrain. It gained significant popularity in the 1980s, with the development of purpose-built mountain bikes. Since then, the sport has evolved rapidly, with advancements in bike technology, trail construction, competition formats, and now even electric powered fat bikes.

Check out the map above for a list of places to ride.  

For those new to this super fun activity. Here is some helpful info to help you get started. Remember, it’s just like riding a bike 🙂

• Cross-Country (XC): Involves racing or riding on a variety of terrain, often with climbs and descents. It’s typically the most popular form of mountain biking.
• Downhill (DH): Focuses on descending steep, technical trails at high speeds. DH bikes are designed for stability and durability.
• Carriage Roads and Rail Trails: Flatter, usually gravel, roads that are wide enough to ride side by side and made for those looking for an enjoyable cruise. 
• Single Track: Trails that are narrow and usually run through woods requiring greater skill and technical expertise. 

Littleton Bike & Fitness (Littleton, NH):

Littleton Bike & Fitness is a well-known bike shop in the region, offering a wide range of bicycles, accessories, and services.

They carry various types of bikes, including road bikes, mountain bikes, hybrids, and electric bikes, catering to riders of all interests and skill levels.

In addition to sales, they provide bike repair and maintenance services, helping cyclists keep their bikes in top condition.

The staff are very knowledgeable and passionate about cycling, offering helpful advice and recommendations to customers not only about gear but great places and trails to ride in the area. 

Bretton Woods Ski & Bike Shop (Bretton Woods, NH):

Located at the Bretton Woods ski area, this shop offers a selection of bikes and cycling gear, as well as bike rentals for visitors looking to explore the trails in the area.

They specialize in mountain biking equipment and may offer guided mountain bike tours during the summer months.

The shop may also provide bike repair services to keep riders rolling smoothly on the trails.

Crooker’s Bike Shop

Crooker’s Bike Shop in Berlin, NH, is a valuable resource for cyclists in the area, offering a range of products and services to support their cycling needs. Whether you’re in the market for a new bike, in need of repairs or maintenance, or simply looking for advice and guidance, Crooker’s Bike Shop is a go-to destination for cyclists in Northern New Hampshire.

The Spoke’n Word Bike Shop

The Spoke’n Word Bike Shop located in downtown Colebrook NH, is the premier destination for all things cycling in Great North Woods and Connecticut Lakes Region of Northern NH. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or just starting out, the staff will help to fuel your cycling passion and elevate your riding experience. Their welcoming shop has an extensive selection of top-quality bikes, gear, and accessories tailored to meet your every cycling need. From sleek road bikes built for speed to rugged mountain bikes ready to conquer any trail, they’ve got the perfect bike for every rider. Plus, the owner is one of the best bike mechanics in NH so if you need a tune, this is your guy.  

Insider Tip: If you are going to be in town and are up for a fun group ride through hidden trails, ask if they have an evening community ride lined up, as they often do. It’s a great way to explore the trails that are only known by locals and make new friends. Finish the day off at one of our fantastic restaurants….you earned your calories, treat yourself!