Best Mountain Bike Trails in the Upper Valley
The Upper Valley region of Vermont and New Hampshire is a mountain biker’s paradise, offering a diverse array of trail systems for every skill level. From technical rock gardens to flowing singletrack and scenic climbs, here’s a guide to some of the best mountain biking destinations in the area.
Far far away, behind the word mountains, far from the countries Vokalia and Consonantia, there live the blind texts. Separated they live in Bookmarksgrove right at the coast of the Semantics, a large language ocean. A small river named Duden flows by their place and supplies it with the necessary.
Boston Lot (Landmark), Lebanon, NH
Boston Lot is often considered the crown jewel of Upper Valley mountain biking. This extensive network features over 30 miles of trails, ranging from rocky, technical old-school routes on the Quarry side to smoother, flowy trails on the Crafts side. Advanced riders will enjoy challenging features like roots, rock gardens, and steep climbs, while the Sherwood Forest area and skills park near the Nature Walk trailhead offer options for less experienced riders.
Notable rides include the “Three Hills Ride,” a strenuous and technical loop recommended
for advanced riders seeking a full-body workout and thrilling descents.
Skill Level: Intermediate to Expert (with some beginner options)
Highlights: Technical rock features, skills park, scenic overlooks, variety of terrain
Trescott Trails, Hanover, NH
The Trescott Water Supply Lands, adjacent to Oak Hill, are known for their beginner- and family-friendly atmosphere. These trails offer a mix of mellow singletrack and doubletrack, with gentle climbs and rewarding views of Mount Ascutney. The Child’s Farm and Poor Farm trails are especially popular for their natural flow and accessibility, making Trescott a great spot for new riders or those seeking a relaxed outing.
Skill Level: Beginner to Intermediate
Highlights: Flowing singletrack, scenic views, family-friendly routes
Mount Peg, Woodstock, VT
Mount Peg’s trail network is carved into a hillside, demanding a good bit of climbing but rewarding riders with exhilarating downhill runs. The trails here are known for their technical nature and variety, with over 30 miles to explore. The Knox Meadows area features a skills park with practice drops, making it a great spot to hone your technique before tackling the more challenging descents. The Woodstock Area Mountain Bike Association maintains these trails, ensuring they’re in top shape for riders of all abilities.
Skill Level: Easy to Expert
Highlights: Challengingclimbs, fast descents, skills park, scenic views
Green Woodlands, Dorchester, NH
Green Woodlands offers one of the largest and most well-maintained trail systems in the region, with a reputation for smooth, machine-built singletrack and long, scenic loops.
The “Big Loop” is a favorite among locals, providing a mix of climbs, descents, and flowy sections suitable for intermediate and advanced riders. The extensive trail mileage and varied terrain make Green Woodlands a must-visit destination for any mountain biker in the Upper Valley.
Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced
Highlights: Long loops, machine-built flow trails, beautiful forest scenery
Mount Ascutney, Brownsville, VT
The trails at Mount Ascutney are considered some of the best in Vermont, featuring a mix of technical singletrack, fast descents, and rewarding climbs. The area offers enough variety to keep even experienced riders engaged for multiple visits. With well-marked trails and stunning views, Ascutney is a top pick for those seeking a true mountain biking adventure in the Upper Valley.
Skill Level: Intermediate to Expert
Highlights: Technical singletrack, challenging climbs, expansive views
Other Notable Trails
- French’s Ledges and Farnum Hill (Plainfield, NH): Winding doubletrack and singletrack with 360-degree summit views and fun descents like the Secret Trail.
- Gile Mountain & Blue Ribbon Trail (Norwich, VT): Offers interconnected loops with a mix of terrain, including a fire tower and ridge riding.
- Aqueduct Trails (Woodstock, VT): Compact network with hand-crafted downhill runs, berms, and a unique wallride feature.
- Cornish Town Forest (Cornish, NH): Traditional singletrack loops with scenic lookouts toward Ascutney Mountain.\
Whether you’re seeking technical challenges, family-friendly rides, or scenic adventures, the Upper Valley’s mountain biking trails deliver. Each network offers something unique, making the region a premier destination for riders of all abilities.
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