The best walks and hikes in Rockingham County

Embark on the North and South Mountain Loop for a varied hiking experience through Pawtuckaway State Park. This moderate 10.6-mile (17.0 km) route takes you past serene Mountain Brook Pond before ascending to the summits of North and South Mount Pawtuckaway. You'll gain 1363 feet (415 metres) in elevation, with the entire journey typically taking around 4 hours and 58 minutes. Look forward to expansive views from a designated lookout point along the way.

Planning your hike on the North and South Mountain Loop is straightforward. You'll find parking available at various trailheads within Pawtuckaway State Park, making it easy to begin your adventure. Before heading out, always check the park's official website. This will ensure you have the latest information on any seasonal considerations, like potential road closures or updated parking details, to help you prepare.

The North and South Mountain Loop stands out in Pawtuckaway State Park for its unique combination of features. It offers the chance to traverse two distinct mountain summits, providing varied perspectives of the surrounding landscape. The route's design ensures a comprehensive exploration of the park's diverse terrain, from peaceful pond-side paths to elevated viewpoints. This makes it a notable choice for experiencing the full scope of Pawtuckaway's natural environment.

Embark on the difficult Round Pond, North Mountain and Shaw Trail Loop, a challenging hike that spans 14.4 miles (23.1 km) with a significant 1261 feet (384 metres) of elevation gain. This route typically takes around 6 hours and 40 minutes to complete. You will experience diverse terrain, from wide paths to narrow single tracks, and be rewarded with expansive vistas from the North Mount Pawtuckaway Summit, alongside views of Round Pond and Mountain Pond. The trail offers a rewarding workout for experienced hikers seeking a varied landscape.

Access this extensive trail system through Pawtuckaway State Park, where parking is generally available. When planning your visit, be aware that some sections, particularly during spring, can present steep and icy descents. Considering seasonal conditions is important for a safe and enjoyable experience on the trail. No specific permits or fees are noted for this particular loop.

As you hike, you will encounter interesting geological features such as boulder fields, adding to the trail's character. The route also leads you through a beautiful hemlock stand, rich with lush, green mosses, providing a unique natural environment. This loop is a notable part of the Pawtuckaway State Park's offerings, showcasing its varied natural beauty.

Embark on the Fundy and Shaw Loop Trail for a challenging hike through varied landscapes within Pawtuckaway State Park. You will navigate forested sections and walk alongside Burnham's Marsh, a great spot for wildlife viewing. The route also features a unique boulder field with large glacial erratics, offering interesting geological sights. This difficult 5.3-mile (8.5 km) loop involves gaining 283 feet (86 metres) in elevation, and you should plan for an estimated 2 hours and 32 minutes to complete it.

Before you head out, remember that the Fundy and Shaw Loop Trail is located within Pawtuckaway State Park. You can typically find parking conveniently located inside the park. Always check the park's official website for the most current information on any fees, specific operating hours, or potential seasonal advisories. This will help ensure you have a smooth and prepared start to your hiking adventure.

The natural environment along this route is quite engaging, especially if you appreciate wildlife and geological formations. Keep an eye out for beavers and great blue herons as you pass Burnham's Marsh, a known habitat for these creatures. The unique boulder field, with its large glacial erratics, provides a fascinating glimpse into the region's geological past. This trail offers a rewarding experience for those seeking a challenging outdoor exploration.

Embark on an easy hike along the Henderson-Swasey Green Loop Trail, a peaceful escape into mixed deciduous and conifer woodlands. This route covers 1.8 miles (3.0 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 127 feet (39 metres), taking around 48 minutes to complete. As you walk, you will encounter varied terrain, from packed earth and rock sections to boardwalks stretching over wetlands. Keep an eye out for interesting features like vernal pools and distinctive boulder outcrops that add character to the forest scenery.

The Henderson-Swasey Green Loop Trail is part of a larger multi-use system, making it a great option for hikers, runners, and mountain bikers alike. You can bring your leashed dog along to enjoy the outing with you. The trail is managed by the Exeter Conservation Commission, ensuring its continued accessibility for outdoor enthusiasts. Check local guidelines for any specific parking information or seasonal considerations before your visit.

This trail offers a wonderful opportunity to observe local wildlife in its natural habitat. As you explore the forest's beauty, you might spot deer, beavers, and various bird species. The presence of vernal pools highlights the rich biodiversity of the area, providing temporary homes for many amphibians and insects. It is a perfect choice if you are looking for a straightforward outdoor experience in the Exeter region.

The Otis Hill and Byrne Trail Loop offers you an easy and refreshing hike, perfect for a quick escape into nature. This route spans 1.8 miles (2.9 km) with a gentle elevation gain of just 100 feet (31 metres), making it very accessible. You can expect to complete the loop in about 47 minutes, winding through varied scenery that includes open fields, mature forests, and peaceful wetlands.

Planning your visit to this trail is straightforward. The route is generally well-maintained and easy to follow, suitable for most hikers looking for a pleasant outdoor experience. You will find convenient parking options located near the trailhead, allowing you to begin your adventure without hassle. It's a great choice if you are seeking a simple, enjoyable walk.

As you hike, you will explore the diverse natural environments of the Piscassic Greenway. A notable feature along the way is a bridge that crosses over a wetland, providing an excellent spot to pause and observe local wildlife. Keep an eye out for turtles and various birds in the beaver pond, adding a touch of natural wonder to your journey through the gently rolling terrain.

Embark on the Lynx and Beaver Pond Trail Loop for a moderate hiking experience that winds through dense forests, past quiet ponds, and over rolling hills. This 5.2-mile (8.4 km) route features a recently built bridge on the Beaver Pond section, offering excellent views of the pond and local birdlife. You will gain 439 feet (134 metres) in elevation, with the entire loop typically taking around 2 hours and 17 minutes to complete. As you continue onto the Lynx Trail, expect to encounter some steeper sections and interesting granite outcrops, adding variety to your journey.

Planning your visit to the Lynx and Beaver Pond Trail Loop is straightforward, as it is located within Bear Brook State Park. While parking is generally available within the park, it is always a good idea to check for any specific day-use fees or permits that might be required for entry. Be aware that the Beaver Pond Trail can become quite muddy after periods of rain, so consider appropriate footwear, especially if there has been recent precipitation.

This trail offers a glimpse into New Hampshire's largest developed state park, providing a diverse natural setting. Keep an eye out for wild high-bush blueberries along the Beaver Pond section if you are hiking in late summer, adding a sweet treat to your adventure. The combination of varied terrain, peaceful water views, and the chance to spot local wildlife makes this loop a notable option for a refreshing outdoor escape.

Explore the Great Bay Discovery Center Trail, an easy hiking route that guides you through diverse estuarine habitats. You will experience upland hardwood forests, freshwater wetlands, and salt marshes, with a prominent 1,700-foot boardwalk offering clear views over the marsh. This gentle path covers 0.6 miles (1.0 km) with a minimal elevation gain of 23 feet (7 metres), making it a quick 16-minute journey.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail is universally accessible, featuring extensive boardwalks that accommodate wheelchairs. Parking is readily available near the visitor center, ensuring easy access to the trailhead. This family-friendly route also provides excellent educational opportunities for all ages, making it a perfect outing for a relaxed afternoon.

Situated within the Great Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve, the trail offers a unique chance to observe local wildlife. Keep an eye out for various bird species, including wintering bald eagles and nesting osprey, as well as mammals like mink and otter. The route's passage through a red maple-sensitive fern swamp adds another layer to its ecological richness, highlighting the area's natural beauty.

Embark on an easy hike along Barringer's Cliffs and Collins Point, where you will discover varied natural landscapes. The trail offers beautiful scenery, including rocky ledges and small wetlands, with stunning views overlooking Massabesic Lake from Barringer's Cliffs. This accessible route covers 2.8 miles (4.5 km) and involves a gentle elevation gain of 181 feet (55 metres). You can comfortably complete this hike in about 1 hour and 12 minutes, making it a perfect choice for a quick outdoor escape.

When you plan your visit to Barringer's Cliffs and Collins Point, you will find parking generally available, making access straightforward. It is important to remember that Lake Massabesic serves as a public water source. You will see signs along the trail indicating heavy fines for any body contact with the water, so please respect these regulations to protect the water supply.

This route is situated within the City of Manchester Water Works, highlighting its role in the local ecosystem. The combination of lake views and diverse terrain, from rocky ledges to small wetlands, creates an enjoyable outdoor experience. It is a great option if you are looking for an accessible adventure that connects you with nature and offers scenic overlooks.

Explore the Phillips Exeter Academy Red Trail, an easy hiking route that guides you through the varied landscapes of the Academy Woods. You will wander through peaceful forests, cross open fields, and pass by wetland areas, offering a refreshing change of scenery. Keep an eye out for glimpses of the Exeter River as you complete this 2.7-mile (4.3 km) journey, which involves a minimal 26 feet (8 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes about 1 hour and 5 minutes.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail is part of a well-maintained network that is openly accessible to the public throughout the year. You can find convenient parking options located near the Academy campus, just a block away from downtown Exeter. The trails are actively managed, ensuring good conditions for your hike whenever you choose to go.

This route is particularly notable for its vibrant transformation in autumn, when the woodlands burst with rich fall colors, enhancing the natural beauty of the area. The Phillips Exeter Academy Red Trail provides a relaxed outdoor experience, allowing you to connect with nature within a diverse and accessible setting.