Things to Do in Kearsarge Mountain State Forest
Kearsarge Mountain State Forest is a state forest in New Hampshire, encompassing over 10,000 acres. This area features a prominent monadnock, Mount Kearsarge, which contributes to varied terrain from dense woods to exposed granite ledges. Its diverse ecosystems provide a setting for several sports like hiking, jogging, touring cycling, road cycling, and gravel biking. The geological features and varied landscapes make Kearsarge Mountain State Forest suitable for a range of outdoor pursuits.
Things to Do in Kearsarge Mountain State Forest
…48
Routes
4.8
(10)
Average rating
426
People visited
2
hikers
8.67km
02:53
420m
420m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1.91km
00:30
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(5)
98
hikers
3.98km
01:58
320m
320m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
3
hikers
8.99km
02:22
80m
80m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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17
runners
8.99km
00:57
80m
80m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
14
runners
4.79km
00:30
30m
30m
Easy run. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
10
runners
3.96km
00:50
320m
320m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
11.2km
01:27
570m
570m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5
riders
57.0km
04:23
480m
480m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
riders
47.1km
02:59
170m
170m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
riders
8.96km
00:32
80m
80m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
16
riders
34.8km
02:14
190m
190m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5
riders
44.1km
01:59
410m
410m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
3
riders
8.96km
00:23
80m
80m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
41.1km
02:05
550m
550m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
28
riders
21.0km
01:18
560m
560m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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5.0
(1)
12
riders
74.6km
05:18
890m
890m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
10
riders
42.3km
02:15
240m
240m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
riders
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
riders
35.9km
02:25
310m
310m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Frequently asked questions
What outdoor activities are available in Kearsarge Mountain State Forest?
Kearsarge Mountain State Forest offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, jogging, touring cycling, road cycling, and gravel biking. The forest encompasses over 10,000 acres, providing diverse terrain for these sports. More information can be found in guides such as Hiking in Kearsarge Mountain State Forest and Cycling in Kearsarge Mountain State Forest.
What are the main hiking trails in Kearsarge Mountain State Forest?
Mount Kearsarge features several hiking trails, including the Winslow Trail and the Barlow Trail from Winslow State Park. From Rollins State Park, hikers can access the Rollins Trail or the Lincoln Trail. The Lincoln Trail is also part of the longer Sunapee-Ragged-Kearsarge Greenway.
Are there hiking trails for beginners in Kearsarge Mountain State Forest?
Yes, Kearsarge Mountain State Forest offers beginner-friendly paths, particularly those winding through dense woods. Other sections, especially on Mount Kearsarge, present steeper and rockier challenges. The diverse terrain accommodates various skill levels.
What views are available from the summit of Mount Kearsarge?
The summit of Mount Kearsarge, which is largely bare, provides unobstructed 360-degree panoramic views. On clear days, vistas extend to the White Mountains, Green Mountains, and even the Boston skyline. This exposed granite summit is a result of a historic forest fire in 1796.
What cycling options are available in Kearsarge Mountain State Forest?
Kearsarge Mountain State Forest provides diverse cycling experiences, including touring cycling, road cycling, and gravel biking. Routes feature heavily wooded areas and scenic paved roads, with options for challenging mountain ascents or more leisurely rides. Guides like Road Cycling Routes in Kearsarge Mountain State Forest offer specific route information.
Are there specific routes for jogging or running in the forest?
The diverse network of trails within Kearsarge Mountain State Forest, including those in Winslow and Rollins State Parks, provides opportunities for jogging. The variety of terrain, from mostly paved surfaces to more challenging routes, accommodates different running preferences. Consult the Running Trails in Kearsarge Mountain State Forest guide for more details.
What geological features can be observed in Kearsarge Mountain State Forest?
The forest features Mount Kearsarge, a prominent monadnock known for its resistance to erosion. Evidence of past glacial activity, such as glacial striations and large glacial erratics, can be observed on the summit and in areas like the Winslow picnic area.
How popular is Kearsarge Mountain State Forest on komoot?
Kearsarge Mountain State Forest is a popular destination on komoot, with more than 500 visitors sharing their experiences. The 8 available routes have an average rating of 4.78 out of 5 stars. This indicates a high level of satisfaction among users.
What komoot guides are available for Kearsarge Mountain State Forest?
Komoot offers several guides for the area, including Hiking in Kearsarge Mountain State Forest, Cycling in Kearsarge Mountain State Forest, and Gravel biking in Kearsarge Mountain State Forest. There are also guides for running and traffic-free bike rides.
Where can I find official information for Kearsarge Mountain State Forest?
Official information for Kearsarge Mountain State Forest is primarily available through the New Hampshire State Parks system. The general website is nhstateparks.org. For direct inquiries, the New Hampshire Division of Parks and Recreation Headquarters Office can be reached at +1-603-271-3556.
Are there family-friendly options for outdoor activities?
Yes, the presence of Winslow and Rollins State Parks within the forest provides maintained facilities and various access points, making it a popular family destination. Some trails are beginner-friendly and suitable for families.
What is the highest point in Kearsarge Mountain State Forest?
Mount Kearsarge is the highest point in Kearsarge Mountain State Forest, reaching an elevation of 2,937 feet. It is also the highest point in Merrimack County. The summit offers extensive panoramic views.
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