Gone are the days where riding a bike can only happen when the weather is warm. If you’re wearing good layers and have the right equipment, biking can be a year-round activity for every age and skill level. From mellow, packed gravel roads to challenging single track trails, Gorham is a hub for all styles of biking, and chances are you’ll find enough exploration opportunities to keep you pedaling for days!
Coos Cycling Club Trails
Since right around 2015, the Coos Cycling Club (CCC) has built and/or improved over 22 miles of mountain biking trails throughout Gorham, catering to riders of all ability levels. Most of the CCC trails can be found in Moose Brook State Park, the south side of Route 2 (beginning across the road from the Route 2/Presidential Rail Trail parking area off of Casey’s Way), and on Power Island across the trestle bridge off of Main Street. These trails are primarily single track and range from mellow to challenging, and in the wintertime, many of the trails are groomed for fat biking. The CCC trails are close to downtown, so grabbing a snack, a meal, or a cold beverage after your ride is super convenient (the parking lot for Big Day Brewing also happens to be a trailhead. Just saying …).
p.s. To learn more about the the awesome work of the Coos Cycling Club, click HERE
Presidential Rail Trail
Stretching for 20 miles from Whitefield to Gorham, the Presidential Rail Trail runs along the foot of the Presidential Mountain Range, giving visitors unparalleled views of the High Peaks. The Rail Trail consists primarily of dirt and crushed gravel with gentle grades throughout. It is wide enough to comfortably cycle side-by-side, but heavier-duty tires are recommended for maximum comfort and safety while riding. Also, it’s important to remember that this trail is remote. Unlike other rail trails in the state, the Presidential Rail Trail does not pass through any town centers, so be sure to plan ahead and prepare with proper food, water, and layers. Once you’re out there, though, you’re in for a beautiful and serene treat. During the summertime, the Rail Trail might be one of the most beautiful places to experience iconic fields of pink, purple, and white lupines. And in the wintertime, take in the stark and striking views of the snowy High Peaks dramatically rising and falling next you as you explore on a fat bike (skis, snowshoes, and dogsled are great options in winter, too!). During the fall, cyclists, hikers, and horseback riders can catch the explosion of fall colors while quietly passing below the mountains, and in the spring, wildlife can be spotted emerging from the long winter. You might even be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of a moose (from a safe distance, of course)!
Parking for the Presidential Rail Trail can be found on Route 2, just under a mile from the junction of Route 2 and Route 16. Lastly, the Presidential Rail Trail is part of the Cross NH Adventure Trail. For folks looking for a longer adventure on two pedal-powered wheels through the northern regions of New Hampshire, be sure to check it out!
p.s. Want to learn more about the Presidential Rail Trail? Click HERE
Great Glen Trails
For those looking for great family fun and easy access to trails and biking equipment, Great Glen Trails is right up your alley. Bike rentals range from casual trail bikes to full suspension mountain bikes, and they even have a fleet of electric-assist bikes, too. If you have small kids, worry not: Great Glen rents bike trailers and trailer-cycles so you and your little ones can get out and adventure in tandem. Passes are required to use the trail system, but it’s well worth the small fee. The views are amazing, the trails are pristine, and there’s always a friendly face at the rental and retail shop waiting to help you find the perfect ride.
Bike Repair Stations
Gorham takes good care of its bikers by providing free bike repair stations throughout the greater Gorham area. Currently there are three stations:
- The Gorham Route 2 parking area, where many folks park for their biking adventures
- Hub North, the glamping area up on Jim Town Road in Gorham
- Israel River Campground in Jefferson, right on Israel River Road
Each station includes basic tools for simple repairs, and a bike pump mounted on a permanent concrete platform. As the popularity of biking continues to grow, future stations are planned to be installed at the Gorham Town Common and at 420 Main Street by the trestle bridge.
