The best road cycling routes in Strafford County

Strafford County offers a diverse landscape for road cycling, featuring a mix of coastal areas, dense forests, and rolling terrain. Routes primarily consist of paved roads, but some may include unpaved segments for those seeking a mixed-terrain experience. You'll find everything from flat, scenic loops to routes with moderate elevation changes.

Yes, Strafford County has numerous easy road cycling options. For instance, the Park, pond and Packer Falls loop from UNH is an easy 16.8-mile (27.0 km) path featuring river views. Another easy option is the Tuttle Road and Packers Falls loop from Lee, which is 13.8 miles (22.2 km) long with minimal elevation gain.

For those seeking longer or more challenging rides, Strafford County offers several moderate routes. The Great Bay loop from Dover is a moderate 38.8-mile (62.4 km) route with over 1,200 feet (368 m) of elevation gain. Another option is the Dover to Exeter loop, a substantial 56.3-mile (90.6 km) ride with over 1,700 feet (517 m) of climbing.

Many routes offer scenic views of natural features. You can cycle along the Great Bay estuary, the Piscataqua River, and past areas like Packers Falls. The Tuttle Road loop via Newmarket and Durham provides scenic views over 27.7 miles. You might also encounter highlights such as Packer's Falls or the Bellamy River Access.

Yes, several routes offer picturesque viewpoints. The Great Bay area provides extensive opportunities for scenic vistas, particularly along routes like the Great Bay loop from Dover. The Little Bay Bridge also offers a safe and scenic passage with views. While not directly on a road cycling route, nearby Little Blue Job Summit is a popular hiking destination with panoramic views that can include Mount Washington and the Atlantic Ocean.

The spring, summer, and fall months generally offer the best conditions for road cycling in Strafford County. The region's diverse landscapes are particularly beautiful during these seasons, with vibrant foliage in autumn and lush greenery in spring and summer. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.

While many road cycling routes are on shared roads, some areas offer more family-friendly experiences. The Dover Community Trail, for example, is a multi-use trail with varying surfaces that passes through woodlands and urban areas, suitable for a more relaxed family ride. For specific road routes, easier loops with less traffic would be ideal.

The road cycling routes in Strafford County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 9 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, from coastal paths to dense woodlands, and the range of options available for different ability levels. The scenic views, particularly around the Great Bay and along river valleys, are also frequently highlighted.

Yes, many road cycling routes in Strafford County are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Great Bay loop from Dover, the Piscataqua River loop from Dover, and the Tuttle Road loop via Newmarket and Durham.

Many routes start from towns like Dover, Newmarket, or near the University of New Hampshire, where public parking is generally available. For example, the Newmarket, Lee, and Durham loop can be accessed from Adams Point, which has a wildlife management area. Specific trailheads often have designated parking areas, such as the Goodwill Conservation Area for the Packers Falls and Swains Lake loop.

Absolutely! Strafford County is rich in outdoor activities. The Great Bay area, accessible from several cycling routes, offers extensive opportunities for hiking, kayaking, paddleboarding, and wildlife viewing at spots like the Adams Point Wildlife Management Area. You can also find trails for hiking and nature appreciation in areas like Doe Farm and Oyster River Forest.

Many road cycling routes pass through or near charming towns like Dover, Newmarket, and Durham. These towns offer various amenities, including cafes, restaurants, and shops where you can refuel and relax. Planning your route to include stops in these towns is a great way to enhance your cycling experience.