The best traffic-free bike rides in Wild River Wilderness
5.0
(2)
105
riders
3
rides
No traffic touring cycling routes in Wild River Wilderness are situated within a remote, forested valley in New Hampshire's White Mountain National Forest, bordered by the Carter-Moriah and Baldface-Royce mountain ranges. The area is characterized by dense mixed forests, the Wild River, and historical traces of a 19th-century logging industry, including old railroad grades. While the wilderness itself is rugged and primarily suited for hiking, the surrounding region offers specific routes for touring cyclists. These routes often feature varied terrain,…
Last updated: August 11, 2026
5.0
(1)
71
riders
12.3km
02:14
1,400m
20m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
24
riders
9.88km
00:59
130m
130m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
2
riders
10.2km
00:43
190m
190m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
riders
12.5km
00:54
270m
270m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Wild River Wilderness
Tips from the Community
The trails in this area are mostly open and flat, with great views. Expect to see hikers, runners, and maybe even a few mountain or gravel bikers pedaling by.
0
0
This remarkable 7.6-mile climb, accessible to cyclists only twice each year, commences in the town of Glen House. From there, the Mt. Washington Auto Road winds its way upward like a a two-lane ribbon. As you climb, you pass through forests and ultimately above the treeline. The views will pay you back when you reach the 6,288-foot summit of Mt. Washington!
0
0
Washington is the most prominent mountain in the eastern U.S. and an absolutely incredible peak to bag. This is easily one of the best summits in New England. It is also the most dangerous if you come unprepared, especially in the winter. Washington creates its own rapidly changing weather system and is known for being the deadliest small mountain in the world. The second-fastest wind speed on earth was recorded here at over 230mph. That said, a quarter million people visit Washington every year, and if you come prepared and respect the mountain you have nothing to fear and are guaranteed to have an epic summit.
0
0
Dress warmly. Snow season begins July 1 and ends June 30. We were at 68 mph at the summit. Keeping your hat on is a good idea. Two days ago, when we were last up there, it was 73 degrees Fahrenheit and the wind was blowing lightly around 23 mph. Mt. Washington is the highest peak within 1,000 miles, making it an exposed location with what the US Weather Service calls the worst and most surprising weather in the world.
0
0
Jackson Falls is a cool set of cascades on the Wildcat River. You can see the falls from the side of the road both above and below the cascades.
0
0
At a height of 6,288 feet in elevation, Mount Washington is the highest point in the range, state, and region. Some people drive to the summit, but there are a couple of days each year that you can bike the paved road to the top, which is a popular challenge for avid cyclists. A gravel bike can be handy since some of the road grades get so steep that you need that bigger cassette. The two events hosted each year for cyclists is the Mount Washington Auto Road Bicycle Hillclimb race each August and the Early Bird (which is just a solo ride for 150 riders) in July. There are places to refill your water, go to the restroom, lock up your bike, and even get a bike to eat if you need it at the top on race day. Note that all riders have to get a ride down the mountain and aren't allowed to bike down the road!
0
0
The Mount Washington Auto Road is only open to bicycles 2 days each year: for the Mount Washington Auto Road Bicycle Hillclimb race each August and the Early Bird (which is just a solo ride for 150 riders) in July. Other than the Delta Dental Mount Washington Road Race in June (an uphill-only running race), the road is privately owned and operated to support only paying vehicles. This is a grueling climb with an average grade of 12% that is not for the faint of heart.
0
0
At a height of 6,288 feet in elevation, Mount Washington is the highest point in the range, state, and region. Some people drive to the summit, but there are a couple days each year that you can bike the paved road to the top, which is a popular challenge for avid cyclists. The two events hosted each year for cyclists is the Mount Washington Auto Road Bicycle Hillclimb race each August and the Early Bird (which is just a solo ride for 150 riders) in July. There are places to refill your water, go to the restroom, lock up your bike, and even get a bike to eat if you need it at the top on race day. Note that all riders have to get a ride down the mountain and aren't allowed to bike down the road!
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic touring cycling routes are available in the Wild River Wilderness area?
Currently, komoot features 3 touring cycling routes in or very near the Wild River Wilderness. These routes range in difficulty from easy to difficult, offering options for various skill levels.
Is the Wild River Wilderness generally suitable for touring cycling, given its 'no traffic' focus?
While this guide focuses on routes with minimal traffic, it's important to note that the Wild River Wilderness itself is primarily a rugged, undeveloped area best suited for hiking and backpacking. The trails are often unmaintained, with significant overgrowth, erosion, and challenging conditions. Therefore, while some nearby routes offer a touring cycling experience, the wilderness area itself is generally not recommended for touring cyclists with loaded bikes.
What are some of the easier no-traffic touring cycling options near Wild River Wilderness?
For an easier ride, consider the Great Glen Trails loop from Green's Grant. This route covers approximately 9.9 km with a modest elevation gain, making it suitable for a more relaxed touring experience.
Are there any challenging no-traffic touring cycling routes for experienced riders?
Yes, for experienced touring cyclists seeking a significant challenge, the Mount Washington Auto Road Bicycle Hillclimb race route offers a demanding climb. This route is classified as difficult, covering over 12 km with more than 1400 meters of elevation gain.
What kind of natural features or wildlife might I encounter on routes near Wild River Wilderness?
The surrounding region boasts diverse ecosystems, from mixed low-elevation forests to spruce and fir at higher elevations. You might spot abundant wildlife, including moose, black bear, white-tailed deer, pine marten, and snowshoe hare. Scenic vistas of the Presidential Range are also possible from higher points on some routes.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes available?
Yes, there are circular options. The Great Glen Trails loop from Green's Grant is a circular route, as is the Jackson Falls loop from Simone Preserve, offering a moderate challenge.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in this region?
Given the rugged nature of the Wild River Wilderness and the potential for challenging conditions, late spring through early fall is generally the most suitable time for touring cycling in the surrounding areas. This avoids winter snow and ice, and reduces the likelihood of high water crossings or muddy trails that can be problematic in the wilderness itself.
Are the touring cycling routes in this area suitable for families?
While the Wild River Wilderness itself is not ideal for family cycling due to its ruggedness, some of the easier routes nearby, such as the Great Glen Trails loop from Green's Grant, might be more suitable for families depending on their experience and the type of bikes used. Always check the route details and difficulty before heading out with children.
What do other touring cyclists say about the routes in this region?
The routes in this area are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the scenic beauty and the challenge offered by routes like the Mount Washington Auto Road.
Are there any historical points of interest along the touring cycling routes?
The Wild River Wilderness area has a history tied to 19th and early 20th-century logging. While the main wilderness trails are not suitable for cycling, some routes in the broader region might pass near remnants of old logging camps or railroad grades, offering a glimpse into the area's past. However, specific historical points of interest directly on the recommended cycling routes are not detailed in the available data.
What are the typical distances and elevation gains for touring cycling routes in this area?
The routes vary significantly. For example, the Great Glen Trails loop from Green's Grant is about 9.9 km with 128 meters of elevation gain, while the challenging Mount Washington Auto Road Bicycle Hillclimb race route is over 12 km with more than 1400 meters of ascent.
Most popular routes in Wild River Wilderness
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Cycling routes in other regions.
