MOUNTAIN BICYCLING Cherry
Mountain Loop
Click Here For A
Map
The Cherry Mountain Loop
is 25 miles long and traverses a number of wooded roads, offering
intermediate level challenges over a variety of terrain. Three waterfalls,
a number of spectacular views, and the highest elevation state highway
in New Hampshire are the main attractions.
Due to impassable conditions on Mt. Mitten Trail, mountain bikers
on the Cherry Mountain Trail will find it impossible to complete
the loop. This information will be updated when conditions
improve.
For a safe and enjoyable
mountain biking experience:
- Always wear an approved helmet when riding.
- Carry extra water.
- Bring extra clothing for protection from the cold and rain.
- Travel with a companion in case of accident.
- Leave a travel agenda with a friend or family member.
This
route is not regularly patrolled.
The Forest Service will monitor this route to determine the effects
on soil and vegetation from this recreational use. Please carry
your mountain bike over wet areas and refrain from riding immediately
after heavy precipitation to reduce erosion.
Access: The trailhead is located 3 miles east of
Twin Mountain, NH on Route 302 in the parking area 200 yards beyond
the entrance to Zealand Campground. Elevation 1506 ft.
Leave from the eastside of the trailhead on Route 302 using the
Lower Falls Hiking Trail. At this beautiful stretch of the Ammonoosuc
River (0.5 mile), rock strata may capture the interest of photographers
and geologists. Go left (north) at 1.0 mile onto the Cherry Mountain
Road. Part of this unpaved road follows the Deception Brook Esker,
a sand and gravel deposit left by the retreating glaciers. At the
height of land (2188 ft.), the Cherry Mountain Hiking Trail diverges
left. A 3.5 mile side trail to the 3544 ft. summit of Mt. Martha
is suitable for mountain bikes and the views are worth the trip.
The main loop trail continues on the Cherry Mountain Road past several
private cabins, turning right on the gravel Mill Brook Road which
is marked FR93. Follow this road for 1 mile to the gated Mt. Mitten
Road on the left. The gate is closed to prohibit motor vehicles,
but foot travel and mountain bikes are welcome. The Mt. Mitten Road
continues through remote country for several miles ending at the
Jefferson Notch Road. Turn right (uphill) and be prepared to meet
cars.
Jefferson Notch is 3007 ft.
in elevation making this road the highest state highway in New Hampshire.
The Caps Ridge hiking trail starts at the trailhead located in Jefferson
Notch, but is unsuitable for mountain bikes. The road follows
Jefferson Brook and passes by Bretton Woods Cascades before meeting
the Base Station Road (paved). Take a right (west) on the Base Station
Road for approximately 5 miles to Route 302. At the junction of
Route 302 and the Base Station Road, turn right. Travel west along
Route 302 to the starting point.
For additional
Info, call 603-869-2626; TTY 603-869-3104
| 
