The best cycling routes in Belknap County

The WOW and Winni Trail offers a delightful touring cycling experience, blending flat, scenic sections with a few moderate inclines. You'll pedal along a paved, multi-use path, enjoying diverse scenery that includes glimpses of Lake Winnipesaukee, Opechee Bay, and Lake Winnisquam, as well as shaded forests and vibrant public art in downtown Laconia. This 8.8-mile (14.2 km) route, with its 252 feet (77 metres) of elevation gain, is rated easy and typically takes about 50 minutes to complete.

This family-friendly trail connects Lakeport in Laconia to Belmont's Osborne's Agway, making it accessible from various points. As a paved, 10-foot-wide pathway, it's suitable for a range of users, including those with electric wheelchairs and dogs on leash. You'll find opportunities to stop at Bartlett Beach for lake views or explore local shops and restaurants when passing through Laconia.

More than just a cycling route, the WOW and Winni Trail system is a significant community asset, utilizing former railroad corridors to create a continuous link in the regional trail network. It's considered a unifying landmark for Laconia, preserving historical routes while offering modern recreational opportunities. Future plans aim to extend the trail even further, enhancing its role as a key part of the New Hampshire Lakes Region's outdoor offerings.

The Mirror Lake loop offers a pleasant touring bicycle experience, winding through scenic landscapes that likely include views of Mirror Lake and the expansive Lake Winnipesaukee. Expect a route that combines paved surfaces with potentially some well-maintained gravel, providing a varied and engaging ride. This moderate trail is perfect for cyclists who enjoy a good workout with rewarding scenery, without the intensity of mountain biking.

Planning your ride on the Mirror Lake loop is straightforward, though specific trailhead parking details are not available. It's advisable to check local road conditions, especially if you're cycling outside of peak summer months. The route is best enjoyed from late spring to early autumn, when the weather is most conducive to cycling in New Hampshire. Always ensure you have adequate water and gear for the duration of your ride.

This 18.3-mile (29.5 km) touring bicycle route features 1004 feet (306 metres) of elevation gain, making it a solid moderate challenge that typically takes around 1 hour and 48 minutes. It's an excellent choice for those looking for a substantial ride that offers both exercise and the chance to explore the natural beauty of the region around Wolfeboro, Carroll County.

The Ahern State Park Loop via WOW Trail offers a wonderfully accessible and scenic cycling experience, perfect for a relaxed outing. You'll glide along mostly paved surfaces on the multi-use WOW Trail, enjoying expansive views of Opechee Bay and Lake Winnipesaukee. As the route enters Ahern State Park, the path shifts to compacted gravel and crushed limestone, providing tranquil moments with Lake Winnisquam vistas and wooded surroundings. This easy 9.6-mile (15.4 km) loop, with just 264 feet (81 metres) of elevation gain, is a fantastic way to spend about 1 hour exploring the area.

Planning your ride is straightforward, as the trail is designed for ease of access and enjoyment. The predominantly flat terrain makes it suitable for all skill levels, including families looking for a gentle ride. While specific parking information isn't detailed, the trail's popularity and multi-use nature suggest convenient access points. Consider visiting during pleasant weather to fully appreciate the lakeside scenery.

This route stands out for its seamless integration into the larger WOW (Winnipesaukee-Opechee-Winnisquam) Trail system, which is built on an old rail bed and aims to connect several towns in New Hampshire's Lakes Region. The trail's historical significance, combined with its extensive shoreline views of three major lakes, makes it a notable and refreshing touring experience. It's a great option if you're seeking a family-friendly cycling route with diverse natural attractions.

The Lake Wentworth – Back Bay loop offers a delightful touring cycling experience, guiding you through the serene landscapes of New Hampshire's Lakes Region. You'll enjoy a smooth ride on mostly paved surfaces, taking in varied scenery that includes expansive views of Lake Wentworth, the tranquil waters of Back Bay, and stretches through wetlands and forests. This easy 8.6-mile (13.8 km) route, with a minimal 152 feet (46 metres) of elevation gain, is perfect for a leisurely spin, typically taking just under an hour to complete.

Accessing this popular Wolfeboro cycling route is quite simple, with various points available within the town itself. Since it's an easy and relatively short ride, you won't need to worry about specific permits or fees. It's a great option for a spontaneous ride, and you can enjoy it at almost any time of day, though early mornings might offer a quieter experience.

What makes this circular cycling route particularly appealing is its blend of natural beauty and historical context. Lake Wentworth, the seventh-largest lake in New Hampshire, is steeped in history, having been the site of Royal Governor John Wentworth's summer estate, which established Wolfeboro as America's oldest summer resort. The route provides excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting, with deer and various bird species often seen amidst the forests and wetlands, making it a scenic and engaging ride for all.