White Mountain National Forest

The road from Sandwich to Thornton is one of the last roads whose location and character remain essentially unchanged from the eighteenth century, when it functioned as part of the main trade route from the seacoast to the North Country. It can be ridden from either end. It is unpaved except for short sections. The road climbs steadily to the high point with several short, steep grades. Loop possibilities include combinations of Beebe River Road with local and state highways, though distances are quite long. The alternative is to preposition a vehicle. There are short side trips to Kiah and Upper Hall Ponds which may provide attractive lunch stops. Parking is located at either end of Sandwich Notch Road. From the Thornton side, park at the Smarts Brook Parking Area (see Smarts Brook - Tri Town Route.) From Smarts Brook turn left on Rte. 49 and travel 1.2 miles to the Notch Road. To reach Sandwich from I-93, take Exit 24. Follow Rte. 3 east through Ashland to Rte. 113 in Holderness. Go left onto Rte. 113 at Squam Boats. Travel 12 miles to Center Sandwich. Once in Sandwich, follow the signs to Sandwich Notch Road. Drive up Sandwich Notch Road 2.4 miles to the Mead Base Camp Road. Park at this intersection.

Note: This road is narrow with many blind curves, and cyclists should be alert for vehicles, especially in the foliage season.

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