6 Scenic Biking Trails in New Hampshire
Not every bike ride is about speed or technical terrain. Sometimes the best rides are the ones where you slow down, take in the scenery and just enjoy the ride.
From lakeside trails and peaceful wildlife refuges to coastal paths and mountain valleys, these six scenic rides offer beautiful views for cyclists of all experience levels. Before you head out, remember to be Wildly Responsible: wear a helmet, ride within your abilities, respect other trail users, and leave the places you visit as beautiful as you found them.
Cotton Valley Rail Trail, Wolfeboro - Wakefield
Stretching 12 miles between Wolfeboro and Wakefield, the Cotton Valley Rail Trail follows a former railroad track with unforgettable views of Crescent Lakeand Lake Wentworth. Along the way you’ll cross scenic causeways, wetlands and forests, and you might even spot wildlife like beavers and deer.
Wildly Responsible Tip: Give wildlife plenty of space and stay on the trail to help protect the local habitats.
Mine Falls Park, Nashua
Nearly 10 miles of mostly flat, beginner-friendly trails wind through Mine Falls Park, following the Nashua River and Mill Pond. The scenic Green Trail Loop offers a relaxed ride past waterfalls, pedestrian bridges, and shaded woods.
Wildly Responsible Tip: Ride at a comfortable speed and be courteous when sharing the trail with people out walking or with other cyclists.
Northern Rail Trail, Boscawen – Lebanon
At nearly 60 miles long, the Northern Rail Trail is New Hampshire’s longest rail trail in the state. The trail, mostly level, is a hard-packed surface which makes for an easy ride through farmland, forests, rivers, and meadows. One particularly scenic stretch near Lebanon crosses the Mascoma River several times over charming historic bridges.
Wildly Responsible Tip: Bring plenty of water, check trail conditions before you ride, and be prepared for changing weather, especially on longer rides.
Odiorne Point State Park, Rye
Coastal views, salt marshes, rocky shoreline, and wooded trails make Odiorne Point State Park a unique place to ride. Nearly five miles of easy trails wind through diverse habitats and historic military sites. While you’re there be sure to make time to stop at the Seacoast Science Center, offering an opportunity to learn about the local marine environment.
Wildly Responsible Tip: Stay on designated paths to help protect the coastal ecosystems and shoreline vegetation.
Pondicherry Wildlife Refuge, Whitefield
For a peaceful ride around nature, Pondicherry Wildlife Refuge is hard to beat. The gentle grades of the Pondicherry Rail Trail lead to stunning views of Cherry Pond and the Presidential Range, with wetlands and forests along the way.
Wildly Responsible Tip: Keep noise down so everyone, including wildlife, can enjoy the peace and solitude. uides instructions, use equipment properly, and if you have questions about what you’re doing, ask!
OHRV Guided Tours
Interested in exploring New Hampshire’s extensive OHRV trail system but not sure where to start? Guided ATV and side-by-side tours provide instruction, equipment, and local expertise, making them a great introduction to off-road recreation.
Learning from experienced guides can help you build confidence while also understanding safe and responsible trail practices.
Wildly Responsible Tip: Stay on designated trails, ride within your ability, and respect other trail users you meet along the way.
Waterville Valley , Waterville Valley
Waterville Valley offers scenic rides for every ability, from paved recreation paths to beginner-friendly mountain biking trails. Meandering streams, forested routes and beautiful mountain views make it easy to spend a day exploring at your own pace.
Wildly Responsible Tip: Know your route before you ride, and choose trails that match your level of ability.
Adventure Wildly Responsible
Every adventure comes with a responsibility to protect the places we enjoy. Whether you’re riding, hiking, paddling, riding, camping or exploring, do your part to help keep New Hampshire’s natural resources safe, welcoming, and ready for others to enjoy.
