Biking and beer – can you think of a better combo on a crispy, colorful fall day?
Littleton, NH is one of the best places in the White Mountains for fall fun. The quaint main street, with its boutiques, quirky shops, and old-fashioned diners, captures that quintessential “autumn in Stars Hollow vibe”. But if you haven’t made it off main street, you have only discovered half of Littleton’s appeal. Come along with us on an adventure!
Book a bike rental and pedal across scenic trestle bridges in search of fall colors. After that, reward yourself with a visit to one of the White Mountain’s most loved breweries (with a view!).
YOUR "EASY FALL DAY IN LITTLETON, NH" ITINERARY
AM: Grab breakfast and a coffee in town. Shop main street in search of local souvenirs and small-town charm. Then, pick up your bike rental at LITTLETON BIKE & FITNESS and explore the Ammonoosuc Rail Trail.
PM: Spend the afternoon enjoying lunch and a European-inspired brew at SCHILLING BEER CO. Follow it up with a hike up Kilburn Crags or exploring the nearby town of Bethlehem.
To start your adventure, head to LITTLETON BIKE & FITNESS. If you’re looking for rental bikes in the White Mountains, this locally owned shop has an amazing fleet (including e-bikes, e-mountain bikes, full suspension mountain bikes, fat bikes, and hardtail mountain bikes). We rented a Roll 3.0 and a Sirrus x 2.0, both from Specialized, and the knowledgeable staff walked us through the features of each and adjusted the seats to make sure our rides were as comfy as could be.
After completing waivers, donning the provided helmets, and filling up our souvenir water bottles, we pedaled our way to the nearby Ammonoosuc Rail Trail. This 19-mile portion of the 83-mile Cross New Hampshire Adventure Trail (which stretches from Vermont to Maine across some of the most scenic portions of the state) just had an upgrade, and we were delighted with the easy gravel ride headed east along the trail. Expect trestle bridges, quiet wooded stretches, and sparkling river views on your journey. Take your time biking; while there are a few road crossings to watch out for, this path also offers plenty of peaceful vibes.
Once you’ve had your fill of biking, enjoy those great rail trail views from a fresh angle as you retrace your route back to the shop.
After you’ve returned your rental to Littleton Bike & Fitness, it’s just a short walk to SCHILLING BEER CO. To get there, you will have to cross one of the most iconic landmarks in town: the Riverwalk Covered Bridge. This picturesque structure spans the Ammonoosuc River, and certainly calls for photos as you make your way across.
On the far end, you’ll be within steps of Schilling Beer Co.’s campus, which includes Mill St. Kitchen (serving casual fare like smashburgers and dönerkebabs), the Store & Tasting Room (for swag and to-go brews), and the Brewery Pub & Kitchen (offering outstanding wood-fired pizzas and more). In search of some late afternoon sun, this time around we opted for the Brewery Pub’s coveted deck overlooking the river.
We ordered Schilling’s classic house-made pretzel twist with a beer-egg wash (as well as all three dipping options: beer cheese, beer mustard, and ranch) plus a spectacular Chicken Maple Bacon pizza. The maple syrup? It’s New Hampshire made, just like the amazing beer selection. Our server was quick to offer recommendations, and we happily settled into the afternoon with sunshine-infused sips of the Jakobus, Konstantin, and Georg.
Jakobus - German-Style Pilsner - 5% ABV
A style we greatly admire; The German Pils is a masterclass in balance. Utilizing a mix of Hallertau Mittelfruh and Saphir for that quintessential noble hop bent. Jakobus is supported by a cracker-like malt character. Light bitterness, lemon, and floral notes finish with a crisp, clean mouthfeel.
Konstantin - Austrian-Style Märzen - 5% ABV
Konstantin is a rich, light-ruby colored seasonal lager. Decocted for greater malt complexity, Konstantin features notes of biscuit, caramel, and bread that shine in the aroma and on the palate. Drier and lighter in color than most German-style Märzens.
Georg - Munich-Style Dunkel - 5% ABV
Georg (named in honor of the Cozzens’ great-grandfather, George A. Schilling) is a complex, dark Bavarian-style lager with traditional Munich malt taking center stage. Presenting notes of nuttiness and bread with a touch of caramel. While complex in flavor, this traditional dark lager is dry and sessionable.
After you’ve enjoyed one of the best breweries in New Hampshire, you might still have a few hours of daylight. If you brought your own bike for the day’s adventure, explore nearby PRKR Mtn Trails. A quick hike up Kilburn Crags or a drive over to Bethlehem, NH for Super Secret Ice Cream, a show at The Colonial Theatre, or gallery shopping at WREN, would also be a great way to close out your autumn escape north of the notches.
OTHER ADVENTURE IDEAS
Fall Itinerary: Northern White Mountains
Spend a Fall Day North of Franconia Notch
A Tasty Tour of White Mountains Breweries, Wineries, Cideries, & Distilleries
