The best walks and hikes in Hemenway State Forest
4.7
(43)
506
hikers
29
hikes
Hemenway State Forest hikes explore a 2,106-acre forest in Tamworth, New Hampshire. The terrain is characterized by well-maintained trails that wind through woodlands, including the old-growth Big Pines Natural Area. Key features include the Swift River, which runs through the forest, and Great Hill, which offers expansive views from its summit.
Best hiking trails in Hemenway State Forest
- The most popular hiking route is Great Hill loop from Carroll County, a 2.2 mile (3.5 km) trail that takes around…
Last updated: May 26, 2026
819m
00:17
60m
0m
Moderate hike. Great for any fitness level. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
5.0
(2)
12
hikers
3.47km
01:18
150m
150m
Moderate hike. Great for any fitness level. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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4.3
(3)
32
hikers
11.3km
04:11
740m
740m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
hikers
10.4km
03:50
620m
620m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
hikers
13.1km
04:32
700m
700m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
This cabin ist located on the site of the Peak House, a three-story hotel built in 1891 and destroyed by a storm in 1915.
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Mount Chocorua is named after the Sokosis chief Chocorua, who lived in the early 18th century. The 1,064 m high Mount Chocorua is one of the most frequently climbed mountains in the US state of New Hampshire. The Appalachian Mountain Club notes that Mount Chocorua is one of the most photographed mountains in the world. https://www.chocorualake.org/hike-chocorua The striking mountain is the easternmost peak of the Sandwich Range and lies at the southern end of the White Mountains. The rocky peak is the result of a series of forest fires between the early 19th and 20th centuries. From its summit there are excellent views of the surrounding mountains and forests. The mountain is part of the almost 25 sq. km. large protected area ‘Mount Chocorua Scenic Area‘, which was created in 1986 as part of the ‘White Mountain Forest Plan‘. https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/stelprdb5364479.pdf
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Mount Chocorua is a 3,490-foot summit in New Hampshire and is one of the most popular peaks in the whole state. The most popular approach involves climbing over 2,000 feet, so it's a pretty tough run, but the terrain isn't terrible, so the downhill back to the car is a rush.
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Mount Paugus South Peak is part of the larger Mount Paugus in the Sandwich Range of the White Mountains. After a forested and rocky ascent, you are rewarded with impressive views of the surrounding landscape, including nearby peaks and valleys.
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You are standing at the top of Chocorua Mountain. Its easily identifiable summit is famous for its beauty but also for its legend: It takes its name from a short story by the author Lydia Maria Child which tells the legend of an Indian chief named Chocorua. In the fiction, Chocorua dies at the top of this mountain after cursing the white settlers responsible for the destruction of its culture and its people. Is it from a true story or completely fictionalized? No one really knows. This legend is now part of New Hampshire history and is featured on a state historical marker (number 31), along Route 16 in Tamworth.
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One of the best lookouts short behind the summit.
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Great view, good rock ground to sit or lay on. Use sunscreen, sun can be really intense and one might forget time once reaching a summit.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are dogs allowed on the trails in Hemenway State Forest?
Yes, dogs are generally welcome in Hemenway State Forest, but they should be kept under control to ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors and to protect local wildlife. Always check for specific trailhead signage regarding leash rules.
Are there any easy, family-friendly hikes in the area?
Yes, the forest offers several options suitable for families and beginners. A great choice is the Brook Path — Wonalancet, a relatively flat 3.3-mile (5.2 km) trail. The Easy Walker Nature Trail along the Swift River is also a short, interpretive walk perfect for all ages.
What's the best hike for panoramic views?
For the best views, hike to the Great Hill Fire Tower. This historic 35-foot steel tower offers marvelous panoramic views of the Sandwich Range, Mt. Chocorua, and the Ossipee Mountains. The Great Hill loop from Carroll County is a popular moderate route that takes you to the tower.
Where can I see the famous old-growth trees?
The most impressive trees are located within the Big Pines Natural Area. This section of the forest is part of the Old-Growth Forest Network and features towering Eastern white pines and ancient hemlocks. Trails like the Betty Steele Trail will guide you through this cathedral-like environment.
Can I go hiking or snowshoeing in winter?
Yes, the trails in Hemenway State Forest are accessible for winter hiking and snowshoeing. The terrain can be challenging in snowy or icy conditions, so proper gear like microspikes or snowshoes is essential. Always check trail conditions before you go.
How many trails are there in Hemenway State Forest?
There are over 20 hiking routes to explore in and around Hemenway State Forest. These range from short, easy nature walks to more challenging intermediate hikes with significant elevation gain, offering plenty of options for different skill levels.
What do other hikers think of the trails?
The trails are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars. Hikers often praise the well-maintained paths, the serene atmosphere of the old-growth forest, and the rewarding views from the Great Hill Fire Tower.
Are there any waterfalls in the forest?
While the Swift River flows through the forest and offers beautiful scenery, there are no major waterfalls directly on the main hiking trails within Hemenway State Forest itself. The primary natural attractions are the river gorge and the ancient pine forest.
Where can I park to access the trails?
There are designated parking areas at the main trailheads for Hemenway State Forest, located along White Mountain Highway (NH-16) in Tamworth. Be aware that these lots can fill up, especially on weekends, so arriving early is a good idea.
Is the forest accessible by public transport?
There is no direct public transportation to the trailheads in Hemenway State Forest. Accessing the area requires a private vehicle.
Are there any challenging hikes for experienced hikers?
For a more strenuous day out, you can tackle the Mount Chocorua Summit – Mount Chocorua Summit loop from Paugus Mill. This demanding route involves significant elevation gain and rewards hikers with incredible summit views, starting from near the state forest.
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