Milford to Pack Monadnock Mountain loop

This loop is classified as a difficult road ride, requiring very good fitness. The climb up Pack Monadnock Mountain is particularly demanding, gaining 770 feet in just 1.2 miles with an average grade of 12.1%. Nearly half of this climb is at a 10-15% grade, and a quarter is even steeper, ranging from 15-20%. Cyclists often describe it as a 'quad buster' due to its intensity.

The primary highlight is the challenging climb to the summit of Pack Monadnock Mountain. While the climb itself is mostly forested, the summit offers excellent panoramic vistas, including views of North Pack Monadnock, the Belknap Range, the White Mountains, Mount Monadnock, and even Boston on a clear day. Another notable feature is Tucker Brook Falls.

Yes, there is a fee to enter Miller State Park, which applies to cyclists as well. This fee grants you access to the park and the summit of Pack Monadnock.

The Monadnock Region is particularly noted for its vibrant foliage during the fall, making it a scenic time to ride. However, the route can be enjoyed throughout the warmer months. Be aware that the descent from Pack Monadnock can be challenging due to frost heaves, so good visibility and dry conditions are recommended.

As this is a loop route, you can typically start and park in Milford or at various points along the route. If you plan to access Miller State Park directly, there is parking available there, but remember that an entrance fee applies.

No, this route is not recommended for families with young children or beginner cyclists. It is classified as a 'difficult' road ride due to significant elevation gain and exceptionally steep sections, particularly on Pack Monadnock Mountain. It requires very good fitness and experience with challenging climbs.

While the route primarily follows public roads where general dog rules apply, Miller State Park (which encompasses Pack Monadnock) typically allows leashed dogs. However, this is a challenging road cycling route, and bringing dogs along on a bike is generally not practical or safe unless they are secured in a specialized bike trailer.

The majority of the surfaces are well-paved and generally easy to ride. However, the road up Pack Monadnock is narrow, two-lane, and in fair condition, without center striping or a shoulder. The descent from Pack Monadnock can also be challenging due to frequent turns and some frost heaves, requiring continuous braking.

While primarily a road cycling route, it does pass through areas where hiking trails exist. For instance, the route briefly intersects with sections of the Wapack Trail, Summit Loop, and Ridge Trail, though these are hiking trails and not suitable for road cycling.

The exceptionally steep grades of Pack Monadnock, with sections reaching 15-20% incline, make it an ideal training ground for cyclists preparing for even more arduous climbs, such as Mount Washington. Its intensity provides a significant challenge in a relatively short distance.

The route takes cyclists through the picturesque Monadnock Region of New Hampshire, known for its charming New England villages and scenic countryside. While the climb up Pack Monadnock is bordered by thick forest, the summit provides excellent panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, especially vibrant during the fall foliage season.