BIKING TRAILS FOR EVERYONE

AT SKI NEW HAMPSHIRE MOUNTAIN RESORTS

 

Mountains in the summer are perfect for exploring, and what better way to cover more ground than by bike?  There's something for everyone who likes to bike at the many Ski NH mountain resorts that have made mountain biking, road cycling, and bike parks a major part of their summer attractions.  Try biking down steep ski trails, smooth cycling on a paved bike path along a mountain stream, mountain biking dirt trails through the woods and more.  To enjoy the special fun of biking you can rent or bring your own bike. 

Here's an overview of what's available at Ski NH mountain resorts this summer:

Attitash - Bartlett, NH

Attitash's high-speed quad chairlift, the Flying Yankee, whisks cyclists up the mountain for five miles of intermediate and advanced downhill terrain for just $15 per ride for adults.  If guests plan to bike all day, a Value Pass, which allows unlimited lift access and mountain biking, is $35.  The Thorne Pond Interpretive Trail Network offers ideal family biking, with several miles of gentle terrain along the Saco River; the trail access fee is $5.  On-trail information includes wildlife track signs and other local habitat details; picnic benches invite a leisurely rest for snacks and beverages.  Bike rental for the full day is $40 for adults and $20 for children (ages 6-12). 

The BALSAMS Grand Resort Hotel - Dixville Notch, NH

The BALSAMS offers more than 35 miles of marked and annotated trails for mountain biking through the distinctive mountain scenery surrounding this renowned resort.  Trail access and tours are free to registered guests. 

Bretton Woods - Bretton Woods, NH

Mountain biking at the historic and picturesque Mount Washington Hotel, with its magnificent Presidential Range backdrop, is one of New Hampshire's unique experiences.   Mountain bikes are available for rent through the activities department; and arrangements can be made for either half or full day rides on resort grounds.  Front suspension mountain bike rentals are $30 for two hours, $40 for three hours, $50 for four hours.  Full suspension mountain bike rentals are $35 for two hours, $45 for three hours, $55 for four hours.

Cannon Mountain - Franconia Notch, NH

Cannon Mountain's base area provides easy access to one of New Hampshire's most popular biking paths, the Franconia Notch Recreation Path.  Franconia Notch's superb mountain vistas take on a special quality when viewed from this paved path that winds through the famous notch.  The path, which can be used free of charge, begins just north of Cannon and ends at the Flume Visitor Center, nine miles south of Cannon; its terrain is suitable for road and mountain bikers alike.  Along the way, bicyclists can stop to view many scenic attractions, including the Old Man of the Mountain Historic Site.  Cannon also offers non-paved terrain around its base. 

Great Glen Trails Outdoor Center - Pinkham Notch, NH

Visitors to the Great Glen Trails Outdoor Center can explore scenic trails with breathtaking views at the base of Mt. Washington, New England's highest peak.  Trail fees are $8 for the day.  Mountain bike rentals are $30 for an adult for four hours, and $22 for a child for four hours; two-hour rates are $25 for an adult, $18 for a child.  Trail-a-bikes and trailers are available for $6 per hour.

Gunstock  - Gilford, NH 

Gunstock's mountain biking center offers 50 kilometers of trails for all ability levels, with spectacular vistas of Lake Winnipesauke and the White Mountains.  Gunstock also offers guided tours and instructional tips for mountain bikers. 

Loon Mountain - Lincoln, NH

Mountain bikers of all levels will find something to their liking at Loon Mountain.  At the mountain's base, there are cross-country trails for riders of all experience levels.  Loon also provides a shuttle bus to transport riders and their bikes to the top of the Franconia Notch Recreation Path where they can take an invigorating downhill ride on the paved bike path; it passes several natural attractions, including the Basin, the Flume Gorge, and the Old Man of the Mountain Historic Site.  Actual ride time back to Loon is approximately an hour and a half, but guests can make a day of it by packing a backpack with lunch, water, bathing suits and a camera.  The tour, including bike rental, is $32 for adults and $27 for juniors; for guests with their own bikes, the shuttle ride is $17 for adults, and $12 for juniors. 

Sunset Hill House -Sugar Hill, NH

Situated on Sugar Hill with 360-degree vistas including incredible views of Franconia Notch, Sunset Hill House is home to 30 kilometers of maintained nature trails that are perfect for mountain biking or a walk in the woods.  Guests often spot moose, deer, and other animals that inhabit the area.   

Waterville Valley - Waterville Valley, NH

Mountain bikers can venture out from the Waterville Valley Adventure Center, located in Town Square, and explore 30 miles of patrolled mountain trails for every ability, from graded logging roads to more technical single-track trails.  More adventurous riders can go to Snow's Mountain and enjoy lift-serviced mountain biking.