Norris Hill Trail

The Green Woodlands loop offers an immersive mountain biking experience through the beautiful forests of Dorchester, New Hampshire. You'll find yourself on meticulously designed, machine-built singletrack, characterized by smooth flow, berms, and rollers, rather than technical rock gardens. Keep an eye out for picturesque moments, like the views of Mount Moosilauke from higher elevations or the charming bridge crossing a stream on the Beaver Dam Trail, hinting at local wildlife.

Planning your ride here is straightforward, as access to the extensive 70-mile network is completely free. The trails are well-marked with maps at every intersection, making it easy to navigate your 18.3-mile (29.4 km) journey. Remember that the mountain biking season typically runs from June 1st to November 1st, so time your visit accordingly for the best conditions.

This moderate route, with its 1944 feet (593 metres) of elevation gain and an estimated duration of 2 hours and 54 minutes, is a testament to quality trail building by avid mountain bikers. The Green Woodlands Foundation maintains these trails with a focus on creating an enjoyable experience for all, even allowing Class 1 e-bikes. It's a fantastic option for riders seeking a challenging yet rewarding backcountry feel without the need for permits or fees.

The Norris Hill Trail loop offers a dynamic mountain biking experience, winding through beautiful hardwood forests with a distinct backcountry wilderness feel. This difficult 13.6-mile (21.9 km) route, which includes 1584 feet (483 metres) of elevation gain and takes about 2 hours and 13 minutes, features a mix of flowy singletrack and technical sections. Keep an eye out for the clearing in the upper half of the trail, which provides fantastic views of Mount Moosilauke.

You can start this adventure from The Hummingbird Center, which provides direct access to the extensive Green Woodlands trail network. While the trails are well-maintained by the Green Woodlands Foundation and are free to use, be prepared for varying conditions, including potential mud or overgrown spots. It's a good idea to check recent trail reports, especially if there's been rain.

This trail is a highlight within the larger 70-mile Green Woodlands system, known for its machine-built flow and significant downhill-primary descent of 700 to 850 feet. It caters to all-mountain riders, blending intermediate (Blue) sections with more challenging Black Diamond features like rock slabs and berms, making it a key destination for advanced mountain biking trails near The Hummingbird Center.