The best traffic-free bike rides in Russell-Shea State Forest

There are around 15 dedicated no traffic road cycling routes in Russell-Shea State Forest, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels. You'll find options ranging from easy to moderate difficulty.

The routes in Russell-Shea State Forest are primarily designed for road cycling, featuring mostly paved surfaces. However, some routes may include short unpaved segments. The landscape is diverse, with mixed hardwood forests, craggy granite ledges, and serene ponds and brooks, providing a scenic backdrop for your ride.

Yes, Russell-Shea State Forest offers several easy routes. The Contoocook River Park and ponds loop from Concord is described as easy and suitable for all fitness levels, featuring mostly paved surfaces. There are 3 easy routes in total, perfect for a relaxed ride.

For those seeking a longer ride, the White Farm – Silver Hill loop from Saint Pauls School covers approximately 67 km with about 777 meters of elevation gain. Another substantial option is the Whittier Pond – Everett Lake loop from Saint Pauls School, which is around 71.7 km with 770 meters of ascent. Both are rated as moderate and require good fitness.

Many of the routes in Russell-Shea State Forest are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Wood Hill – Bow Town Pond loop from Saint Pauls School and the Brown Hill – Wood Hill loop from Bow, providing convenient circular journeys.

While cycling, you'll encounter diverse natural beauty including mixed hardwood forests, striking craggy granite ledges, and serene hidden ponds, marshes, and brooks. The Turkey River also flows through the area, enhancing the natural appeal. You might also discover historical remnants, such as an 1818 potato starch mill operation.

The no traffic road cycling routes in Russell-Shea State Forest are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 23 reviews. Cyclists often praise the peaceful environment, the scenic landscapes, and the opportunity to enjoy rides away from busy roads.

While road cycling can be enjoyed in various seasons, the best time to visit for traffic-free road cycling typically aligns with milder weather. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful foliage, while summer provides longer daylight hours. Winter conditions may make some routes less accessible due to snow or ice, so checking local conditions is always recommended.

Yes, several routes offer views of water features. The Contoocook River Park and ponds loop from Concord, as its name suggests, takes you past the Contoocook River and various ponds. The forest itself is characterized by serene hidden ponds, marshes, and brooks, and is situated on the banks of the Turkey River, ensuring many routes will offer scenic water views.

All the no traffic routes offer a chance to immerse yourself in the forest's natural beauty. Routes like the Whittier Pond – Everett Lake loop from Saint Pauls School will take you through diverse landscapes, including mixed hardwood forests and past serene ponds, allowing you to appreciate the flora like mountain laurel and witch hazel.