The best running trails around Franklin
19
runners
7
runs
Jogging around Franklin, New Hampshire, offers a variety of routes that explore the region's natural and recreational areas. The landscape features a mix of lake-side paths, rail trails, and reservoir loops, providing diverse terrain for runners. Routes often follow established trails and roads, with some offering views of water bodies like Webster Lake and the Pemigewasset River. The area provides options ranging from flat, easy runs to more challenging routes with moderate elevation changes.
Best jogging routes around Franklin
- The most popular jogging route is Webster Lake loop road run — Merrimack County, New Hampshire, a 5.9 miles (9.6 km) trail that takes 1 hour to complete. This route offers a moderate challenge with views around Webster Lake.
- Another top favourite among local runners is Franklin Falls Reservoir loop — Merrimack County, New Hampshire, a moderate 3.1 miles (5.0 km) path. This route circles the Franklin Falls Reservoir, providing a scenic and accessible run.
- Local runners also love the Northern Rail Trail 5k (Webster Lake to Franklin Junction) — Merrimack County, New Hampshire, a 3.1 miles (5.0 km) trail leading through the Northern Rail Trail, often completed in about 36 minutes.
- Jogging around Franklin is defined by lake-side paths, rail trails, and reservoir loops. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy 5k runs to longer, more challenging routes.
- The guide includes highly-rated routes that showcase the best of the region's landscape. More than 15 runners have used komoot to explore Franklin's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 25, 2026
4
runners
9.56km
01:00
90m
90m
This 5.9-mile (9.6 km) moderate jogging route around Webster Lake offers picturesque views and takes about an hour to complete.
4
runners
15.0km
01:50
90m
90m
The 9.3-mile Northern Rail Trail jogging route offers a challenging experience with 307 feet of elevation gain, taking about 1 hour 49 minut
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3
runners
5.00km
00:36
30m
30m
Jog an easy 3.1-mile section of the Northern Rail Trail, featuring varied countryside, historic sites, and minimal elevation gain.
1
runners
5.02km
00:34
50m
50m
Jog the moderate 3.1-mile Franklin Falls Reservoir loop in Merrimack County, New Hampshire, enjoying scenic waterside views.
4
runners
9.92km
01:03
100m
100m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
There are nice views of Highland Lake to be had from here on the Franklin Highway. It is worth even getting closer to the shoreline for a better view. The Northern Rail Trail runs adjacent to you between the shore and the highway, and it runs directly alongside the lake. It is easy to turn off here to get an even better place to take a break and enjoy the view.
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There is a public beach and car parking here at the south end of Webster Lake. Whether you are cycling along Webster Road or along the Northern Rail Trail, it is worth a stop here to look at the views. There is also a small, compact covered bridge with exposed side trusses, which is gorgeous to look at going over Chance Pond Brook. In addition, there are also rest rooms here if the need arises.
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Franklin Falls Reservoir is a parkland that runs along the Pemigewasset River, which is ultimately kept (somewhat) in check by the Franklin Falls Dam. The trails in this area offer great views of the river.
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Pemigewasset River is a 70-mile long stream that connects with the Winnipesaukee River in Franklin to form the Merrimack River.
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There's a public beach here on the south side of Webster Lake. The lake itself is one of the biggest — and prettiest — landmarks along the Northern Rail Trail. If you don't mind a little road running, you can also put together a nice loop run around the lake.
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There's a public beach here on the south side of Webster Lake, one of the biggest — and prettiest — landmarks along the Northern Rail Trail. The Northern Rail Trail itself used to be the railbed of the Boston and Maine Railroad's Northern Line; it's now an easygoing, multi-use trail made mostly of compacted stone dust.
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This is one of the prettiest — and biggest — landmarks along the Northern Rail Trail, which runs along the railbed of the old Boston and Maine Railroad's Northern Line. The surface along this part of the trail is mostly crushed stone dust, which makes for easy running.
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Once the railbed of the Boston and Maine Railroad's Northern Line, the Northern Rail Trail is now a lovely, unpaved multi-use trail. This section of the trail runs between Webster Lake and Franklin Junction, near Franklin itself. That said, the actual endpoints of the complete trail are in Boscawen and Lebanon. The surface is mostly compacted stone dust and the trail is mostly flat — great for an easy walk or run.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many running routes are available in Franklin, New Hampshire?
Komoot currently features 6 diverse running routes around Franklin, New Hampshire. These routes offer a mix of lake-side paths, rail trails, and reservoir loops, catering to various preferences and fitness levels. More than 15 runners have already explored these trails using komoot.
Are there easy jogging routes for beginners in Franklin?
Yes, Franklin offers easy jogging routes suitable for beginners. A great option is the Northern Rail Trail 5k (Webster Lake to Franklin Junction), which is 3.1 miles (5.0 km) long and generally flat, making it perfect for a relaxed run.
What kind of terrain can I expect on running trails in Franklin?
Jogging routes in Franklin, New Hampshire, are characterized by a mix of lake-side paths, scenic rail trails, and reservoir loops. You'll find routes that follow established trails and roads, with some offering views of water bodies like Webster Lake and the Pemigewasset River. The terrain varies from flat, easy runs to more challenging routes with moderate elevation changes.
Are there any circular running routes in Franklin?
Yes, Franklin features several excellent circular running routes. A popular choice is the Webster Lake loop road run, which is 5.9 miles (9.6 km) and offers a moderate challenge with beautiful lake views. Another great option is the Franklin Falls Reservoir loop, a moderate 3.1-mile (5.0 km) path that circles the reservoir.
What are some longer distance running routes in Franklin?
For those looking for a longer run, the Webster Lake to Highland Lake 15k (Northern Rail Trail) offers a challenging 9.3-mile (15.0 km) experience. This route provides an extended journey along the scenic Northern Rail Trail.
What can I see along the jogging routes in Franklin?
Many running routes in Franklin offer scenic views, particularly of water bodies. For example, the Webster Lake loop road run provides continuous lake views. You can also find highlights like the Webster Lake Public Beach and Covered Bridge, and sections of the Northern Rail Trail near Webster Lake, which are popular points of interest.
Are there any trails that follow rivers or offer river views?
Yes, some routes in Franklin offer beautiful river views. The View of Pemigewasset River – Franklin Falls Reservoir loop is a moderate 3.7-mile (5.9 km) route that provides scenic vistas of the Pemigewasset River as it loops around the Franklin Falls Reservoir.
What types of natural attractions are near Franklin's running trails?
Beyond the trails themselves, you can explore natural attractions such as the Kimball Pond Conservation Area, which offers a peaceful natural setting. The region also features Franklin Lake and the Winnipesaukee River Trail, providing more opportunities to enjoy the local landscape.
Are the running trails in Franklin generally paved or unpaved?
Franklin's running routes offer a mix of surfaces. Many of the lake-side paths and rail trails, such as sections of the Northern Rail Trail, are likely to be well-maintained and potentially paved or hard-packed, making them suitable for various running styles. However, some routes might include unpaved sections, especially those venturing into more natural or conservation areas.
What is the difficulty level of running routes in Franklin?
The running routes in Franklin cater to a range of abilities. You'll find 1 easy route, 3 moderate routes, and 2 more difficult routes. This variety ensures that both casual joggers and experienced runners can find a suitable challenge.
Can I find routes that are less crowded in Franklin?
While specific crowd levels can vary, exploring routes like the Webster Lake to Highland Lake 15k, which is a longer and more challenging option, might offer a more secluded experience compared to shorter, more popular loops. Early mornings or weekdays are generally good times to find quieter trails.
Are there any historical or cultural points of interest near the running trails?
While the primary focus of these routes is natural scenery, the region has historical significance. The Webster Lake Public Beach and Covered Bridge offers a glimpse into local heritage. Additionally, the nearby settlement of Canterbury, though not directly on a running route, is a notable cultural highlight in the broader area.
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