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Take Rt.302 east from Littleton (or west from Conway). The Cherry Mountain Loop trailhead is 3 miles east of Twin Mountain, NH on Route 302 in the parking area 200 yards beyond the entrance to Zealand Campground.
General Description: (see White Mountain National Forest Info for important details). The Cherry Mountain Loop Trail is 25 miles long and traverses a number of wooded roads, offering an intermediate level cycling adventure over a variety of terrain. The main attractions of the trail include three gorgeous waterfalls, a number of spectacular views, a side trail option to the 3,544 ft. summit of Mt. Martha, and the highest elevation state highway in New Hampshire. This route is not regularly patrolled.
The Trails: Be prepared for a full day of biking. Leave from the eastside of the trailhead (left side of the bulletin board), on Route 302 using the Lower Falls Hiking Trail. in 0.5 miles, you'll arrive at the Lower Falls of the Ammonoosuc River. At this beautiful stretch of the Ammonoosuc River, 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 (2,188 ft.), the Cherry Mountain Hiking Trail diverges left. (see Option 1) (Option 1) This spur trail is recommended for advanced level mountain bikers. A 3.5 mile side trail to the 3,544 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 3,007 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.
Note: To prevent resource damage, avoid riding on muddy trails or after heavy rain. Stay on designated roads or trails, and avoid trampling vegetation.
For More Information: Pemigewasset/Ammonoosuc Ranger District
Phone: (603)
536-1310 White Mountain National Forest Supervisor's Office
Phone: (603)
528-8721 Website: Biking White Mountains National Forest
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