5 great New England mountain biking trails to try

Riders of all ages can participate in racing at Great Glen Trails.

Whether it’s exhilarating downhills you seek or the seemingly endless miles of technical singletrack, or perhaps it’s the serene forest paths that put a smile on your face, New England is the place to find it all.

Rugged landscapes and scenic beauty — in the mountains, along the coastlines and in the forests — make New England among the most rewarding places for mountain biking.

The region offers limitless options catering to all skill levels.

Here are five of our favorite mountain biking spots that promise exhilarating rides and plenty of nearby attractions to enjoy when you finally step off the bike.

Great Glen Trails

Situated in New Hampshire at the base of Mount Washington with a sprawling network of trails that range from gentle beginner loops to advanced downhill descents, Great Glen Trails offers a mountain biking experience suitable for the entire family. The network’s 28 kilometers of rolling carriage roads offers a uniquely rewarding way to explore the diverse forest and its beautiful meadows, scenic rivers and stunning mountain vistas. For the adrenaline junkies, Great Glen’s 25 kilometers of singletrack will get your heart racing and are the featured attraction in its various bike events, including the Mountain Bike Meister, a downhill race series that draws riders from across the region.

Visitors will enjoy the convenience of the Base Lodge, with showers, lockers and a cozy fireplace in the dining room. Convenient amenities also include bike rentals and guided tours. When off the bike, visit the nearby town of North Conway and its quaint shops and lively atmosphere, or stop by one of the town’s many cafes and restaurants.

Bradbury Mountain State Park

Nestled in the heart of Maine, Bradbury Mountain State Park offers an exhilarating mountain biking experience for riders of all levels. Its diverse trail system winds through dense forests and rocky terrain, providing a challenge for even the most seasoned bikers. Beginners can enjoy scenic loops like the Perimeter Trail, while more advanced riders can test their skills on technical singletracks like Fox East and Try Again. Convenient amenities such as picnic areas, restrooms and a campground make it easy to spend a full day or even a weekend exploring the park’s natural beauty.

Don’t pack up and head home without venturing into nearby Freeport for some post-ride relaxation and exploration. Known for its charming downtown area and plethora of outlet stores, Freeport offers a perfect blend of shopping, dining and outdoor recreation. The stop wouldn’t be complete without a stroll through the iconic LL Bean flagship store, where you can stock up on everything you need for your next outdoor adventure.

Carrabassett Valley Trails

With more than 90 miles of diverse trails managed by Maine’s Carrabassett Region NEMBA that wind through mountain paths and vibrant forests, the Carrabassett Valley Trails network offers a mountain biking destination for recreationalists of all abilities. Riders can tackle everything from flowy downhill descents to technical rock gardens, all while soaking in breathtaking views of the surrounding wilderness. Convenient amenities such as shuttle services, bike rentals and guided tours make exploring the region’s trails a breeze.

Located in the heart of western Maine, leave some time in your visit to drive along the Rangeley Lakes Scenic Byway, where you pick and choose to explore charming towns, scenic overlooks and vintage lakeshores. Or head to the Carrabassett Valley Outdoor Center to try whitewater rafting, kayaking and ziplining.

Freetown-Fall River State Forest

Less than an hour’s drive from Boston, Freetown-Fall River State Forest offers an expansive escape for mountain biking enthusiasts in Massachusetts. This extensive trail network spans over 25 miles and features a variety of terrain, including wooded paths, rocky descents and scenic overlooks. Riders can enjoy a leisurely ride along the Copicut Reservoir or challenge themselves on the technical trails of the Profile Rock Loop.

When off the bike, relax at Horseneck Beach State Reservation, just a short drive from the forest. This scenic beach offers miles of sandy shoreline and views of Buzzards Bay and Rhode Island Sound. And if you’re feeling hungry after your beach adventure, check out the revitalized waterfront corridor of historic New Bedford.

Arcadia Management Area

Rhode Island’s largest recreational area boasts 14,000 forest acres with 134 miles of multi-use trails that are shared by mountain bikers, hikers and horseback riders. The 237-trail network within Arcadia Management Area winds through dense forests and tranquil wetlands. Riders can explore a variety of terrain, from smooth gravel paths to technical singletracks, while enjoying the sights and sounds of the wilderness. With convenient amenities such as parking areas, picnic spots and restroom facilities, Arcadia Management Area is the perfect destination for a day of outdoor adventure in the Ocean State.

After a day of mountain biking, unwind with a leisurely paddle along the Wood River, a scenic waterway that winds through the heart of the management area forest, offering paddlers the chance to explore tranquil wetlands, dense forests and abundant wildlife. Rent a kayak or canoe from a local outfitter, or bring your own and launch from one of the designated access points along the river. Keep an eye out for birds, turtles and other wildlife as you navigate the gentle currents of this hidden gem.