New Hampshire doesn’t always get the same thunderous two-wheeled applause as the West Coast or the Blue Ridge Parkway, but let me tell you—riders in the know will argue it delivers some of the most soul-stirring miles in the Northeast. Tucked between the Green Mountains of Vermont and the bold Atlantic shoreline of Maine, New Hampshire has its own quiet charisma: winding roads that snake through mountain passes, roll around mirror-still lakes, and twist past towns so quaint they practically sell apple pie air fresheners.

Now, I’m no stranger to long rides and hard-earned saddle time. I’ve ridden across dirt trails, twisted up on cruisers, and made peace with gravel roads that looked more like goat paths. But after a move to southeastern Ohio, with hills that made me feel like I was one wrong downshift from a garage sale, I switched from two to three wheels with a Can-Am Spyder RT. Game-changer. And New Hampshire? Well, it’s made for all kinds of riders.

Let’s take a look at some of the best motorcycle routes through New Hampshire’s White Mountains, the scenic lakes region, and a few tasty pit stops to fuel both bike and belly.

White Mountains Wonderland

Kancamagus Highway – The Legendary Ride

Ask any seasoned New England rider about their favorite ride and the Kancamagus Highway (NH Route 112) will almost always make the list. This 34.5-mile stretch connects Lincoln to Conway and slices right through the heart of the White Mountain National Forest. You won’t find gas stations or roadside souvenir shops—just raw natural beauty, sharp curves, and elevation changes that’ll have your ears popping and your smile growing wider by the mile.

Expect everything from sweeping mountain views to tight tree-lined turns. Early morning or late afternoon is prime time, especially if you’re after those golden hour lighting vibes. Fall foliage? Unreal. Just keep your throttle steady and your eyes open for wandering moose—they don’t check mirrors.

Fuel your ride with:
The Moon Bakery & Café in Lincoln – Known for killer espresso and fresh pastries that will make you rethink your relationship with convenience store muffins.

Where to crash:
The Woodstock Inn Brewery in North Woodstock – A rider-friendly place that not only gives you a bed but also craft beer brewed on-site.

Bear Notch Road – The Hidden Gem

If the Kanc feels a little too polished for your tastes, peel off and take the lesser-known Bear Notch Road between Bartlett and the southern end of the Kancamagus. It’s seasonal (closed in winter), lightly trafficked, and offers a tight, twisty run through dense forest with lookout spots that don’t pull tour buses. It’s short—about 9 miles—but it punches way above its weight class in terms of riding satisfaction.

This route connects beautifully with a longer day loop through North Conway, up through Crawford Notch, and around Mount Washington. If you’re planning to hit Mt. Washington Auto Road, be aware that motorcycles are only allowed during certain conditions—wind and weather matter up there.

Stretch your legs at:
White Mountain Cider Co. in Glen – Upscale comfort food with a cider menu that could convert a beer snob.

The Lakes Region Loop

Squam Lake and Lake Winnipesaukee

For a change of pace and elevation, the Lakes Region delivers smooth riding along peaceful shores and through sleepy towns. Start in Meredith and head north along NH-25 toward Center Harbor. Follow Route 113 to Sandwich and Tamworth, then curl south on Route 109 back through Wolfeboro—the oldest summer resort town in America.

This loop is as gentle or spirited as you want to make it. The roads are well-maintained with a few sweepers, a couple of “don’t daydream” corners, and plenty of lakefront views. For me, it’s a Zen ride—like a warm-up before tackling the twisties in the Whites.

Must-eats along the way:
Bailey’s Bubble in Wolfeboro – Because every solid ride should end with a roadside soft-serve.

Stay the night at:
The Pickering House Inn in Wolfeboro – Luxury without the snooty price tag. Historic charm meets fluffy robes.

Monadnock Region Ramble

For those wanting fewer tourists and more hidden gems, aim for southwest New Hampshire. The Monadnock Region, named after the famously solo Mount Monadnock, is all covered bridges, old barns, and roads that roll like lazy rivers. This area is underrated for riding, which means you can usually find a peaceful route even on weekends.

Try Route 137 from Hancock to Jaffrey, or Route 101 from Peterborough through Dublin and Marlborough. These routes serve up rolling terrain, tree tunnels, and those old-school general stores with squeaky wooden floors.

Breakfast like a local at:
The Harrisville General Store – Wood-fired breakfast sandwiches. Enough said.
Dinner spot:

When You're Ready for More Miles

If you’ve got more time (and more coffee), you can combine some of these loops into a full-day or weekend ride. One example: Start in Meredith, cruise around Lake Winnipesaukee, hit the Kanc westbound, and loop back via Bear Notch and Route 302. It’s not the Iron Butt Rally, but your odometer and your thighs will both take note.

For longer stays, plan your base in North Conway—close to shopping, food, and tons of lodging. Eastern Slope Inn is a solid option, especially if you’re trying to convince your non-riding partner to tag along for a spa treatment while you ride solo for a bit.

Why New Hampshire Rides Matter

There’s a lot of noise in the world. Between raising kids (in my case, three at once—try that with only two arms), working full-time, going back to school, and trying to remember where I left my keys, life gets loud. Riding clears the clutter. And in New Hampshire, it does more than that—it humbles you.

Whether you're on a cruiser, an ADV bike, or a three-wheeled marvel like my Can-Am Spyder RT, these routes are an invitation to be present. You’ll ride past mountains older than memory, lakes that reflect the sky like a mirror, and towns where folks still wave at passing motorcycles.

So, fill up the tank, zip up your jacket, and point your front tire toward the Granite State. It’s waiting.