The best walks and hikes in Paugus Bay State Forest
5.0
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44
hikers
12
hikes
Hiking in Paugus Bay State Forest offers trails through a substantial 255-acre parcel in Laconia, New Hampshire. The forest features diverse landscapes, including extensive woodlands, numerous wetlands, and a network of streams and rivers. It also encompasses areas of prime farmland and stretches along the western shores of Paugus Bay, providing varied scenery.
Best hiking trails in Paugus Bay State Forest
- The most popular hiking route is Fire road – Ahern State Park loop from Ahern State Park, an easy 1.3 miles (2.0 km) trail that takes about 35 minutes to complete, offering a straightforward path through the park.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Rusty Bedspring, Upper Jakes, and Yo Benson loop — Ahern State Park, an easy 2.2 miles (3.5 km) path. This route navigates through varied terrain within Ahern State Park, suitable for a shorter outing.
- Local hikers also love the WOW and Winni Trail — Laconia, an 8.7 miles (13.9 km) trail leading through varied landscapes near Laconia, often completed in about 3 hours 35 minutes.
- Hiking in Paugus Bay State Forest is defined by extensive woodlands, numerous wetlands, and paths along streams and rivers. The network offers options for easy walks and moderate trails.
- The routes in Paugus Bay State Forest are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from 6 reviews. Nearly 50 hikers have used komoot to explore Paugus Bay State Forest's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 25, 2026
1
hikers
3.52km
00:55
20m
20m
Embark on the Rusty Bedspring, Upper Jakes, and Yo Benson Loop for an easy hike through the natural surroundings of Ahern State Park. This pleasant route covers 2.2 miles (3.5 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 80 feet (24 metres), making it a perfect short outing you can complete in about 55 minutes. You will find a mix of well-maintained paths, including sections of fire road, as you explore the area.
For your visit, you can conveniently access this loop from the Shore Drive Trailhead, where parking is generally available. This trail is suitable for a quick hike and does not typically require special permits. You also won't encounter any seasonal closures, so you can enjoy this route almost any time you wish.
The Backbone Trail, which forms part of this loop, offers a straightforward experience for hikers looking for a relaxing walk. Keep an eye out for the Shore Drive Trailhead, which serves as a clear starting point for your adventure. This trail is a great option if you are seeking a brief escape into nature without a strenuous climb.
1
hikers
13.9km
03:36
80m
80m
Hike the 8.7-mile WOW and Winni Trail, a moderate route offering scenic views of Lake Winnisquam and historical rail trail features.
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5
hikers
2.90km
00:51
80m
80m
The Long Loop Trail offers a delightful, easy hike through varied terrain, perfect for a quick nature fix. You'll wander through pleasant natural settings, with opportunities to spot the tranquil waters around Stonedam Island and the inviting stretch of South beach. The route provides a refreshing experience, making it an ideal choice for a relaxed outing.
Planning your trip is simple; the trailhead is readily accessible. While specific parking information isn't detailed, arriving earlier in the day is always a good strategy, especially if you're visiting on a busy weekend. This 1.8-mile (2.9 km) hike, with its modest 249 feet (76 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 51 minutes to complete, making it a great option for a short day hike.
Loop trails are often favored by hikers because they continuously offer new perspectives and bring you back to your starting point without retracing steps. This particular Long Loop Trail, located in New Hampshire's Belknap County, provides a gentle, scenic circular walk suitable for all ages and fitness levels, ensuring a pleasant experience for everyone.
2
hikers
4.73km
01:20
100m
100m
Embark on the Farm Vewe Hilltop Trail, an easy hike that takes you through the peaceful New Hampshire countryside. This route spans 2.9 miles (4.7 km) and involves a gentle climb of 340 feet (104 metres), typically completed in about 1 hour and 20 minutes. As you hike, you will pass through lush forests, open fields, and pastures, offering a varied landscape. The highlight is reaching Farm Vewe Hilltop, where you can enjoy wide-ranging views of rolling hills and farmland. It's a straightforward path, suitable for a relaxing outdoor experience.
The trail is well-maintained and clearly marked, making navigation simple for all hikers. You will find accessible parking, providing a convenient starting point for your adventure. This makes it an ideal choice for families and casual hikers looking for a pleasant outing. Consider bringing a picnic, as there are designated areas along the route where you can stop and enjoy the scenery.
This trail offers a chance to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Ramblin' Vewe Farm. Keep an eye out for local wildlife such as deer and rabbits as you explore the area. Depending on the season, you might witness vibrant wildflowers in spring or the rich colors of foliage in autumn, adding to the scenic appeal of your hike.
9
hikers
6.99km
01:56
130m
130m
Embark on the Hamlin Trail loop, an easy 4.3 miles (7.0 km) hike that takes you through diverse landscapes. You will gain 423 feet (129 metres) in elevation over an estimated 1 hour and 56 minutes. As you hike, you'll meander past peaceful beaver ponds and through old-growth sugar maple forests, eventually reaching open ledges that provide excellent views of Lake Wicwas and the distant White Mountains. Keep an eye out for local wildlife and indigenous plants along the way.
Planning your visit to the Hamlin Trail loop is straightforward. The route is easily accessible, and you can find parking conveniently located at the Beaver Pond Trailhead. No permits are required to enjoy this trail, making it a hassle-free option for your outdoor plans. The path is generally well-maintained and suitable for most hikers looking for a pleasant outing.
This route is nestled within the Hamlin-Eames-Smyth Recreation and Conservation Area, known for its natural beauty. The diverse scenery, from wetlands to mature woodlands, offers a rich experience for nature lovers. You can expect to encounter various indigenous plants and local wildlife, adding to the trail's appeal as a notable natural escape in the region.
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Popular around Paugus Bay State Forest
Tips from the Community
At the southern tip of the island y will find a small beach protected by jetties on both sides. There is a picnic area and spots to dock kayaks. From here you get views across the water to Weir Beach and Governor's Island, and if you are lucky you will see the Mount Washington cruise ship making its tour of Winnipesaukee.
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Stonedam Island is host to a historic cabin and four little trails that take you to picnic spots and beaches around the island. It you make it here, you have found the summit! There is no access to the island by car, but you can boat or kayak over to the dock on the northeast side and begin your adventure from there.
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This highlight is a general informative comment about the area. The Ramblin Vewe Farm is a conservation trust created by Dick and Betty Persons. In addition to conservation and good forest practices, they turned the farm into a recreational area with a variety of well maintained trails. Despite the tour difficulty indicated by Komoot, be aware that the MTB trails vary between green and black diamond levels.
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Lake Wicwas is 328 acres and surrounded by forest and marshes. It is a popular bird watching area as the lake is home to many birds, including loons, herons and ducks.
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The Lakeport trailhead for access to the Winnipesaukee-Opechee-Winnisquam (WOW) Trail. There is parking, a restroom and some benches at the start of the trail.
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From the hilltop you can see out across Lake Winnipesaukee to the Ossipee Mountains in the distance.
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If you follow Boyd Hill Road straight at the fork you will come to the parking lot. The trails from here are usually well maintained and network heavily with each other. This makes it easy to customize your hike but note that the trails may not match exactly with digital maps.
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The Winni Trail is a paved scenic lakeside bike path that joins with the WOW (Winnipesaukee-Opechee-Winnisquam) Trail near the Laconia Bypass. Across from the bypass is the Leslie E. Roberts Beach, which makes for a nice destination.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in Paugus Bay State Forest?
Paugus Bay State Forest and its immediate vicinity offer a selection of 14 hiking routes. Most of these, 11 to be exact, are rated as easy, making them accessible for many hikers. There are also 3 moderate trails for those seeking a bit more challenge.
What kind of landscape can I expect to see while hiking in Paugus Bay State Forest?
Hikers in Paugus Bay State Forest will experience a diverse natural setting. The area features extensive woodlands, numerous wetlands, and a network of streams and rivers. You'll also find areas of prime farmland and stretches along the western shores of Paugus Bay, providing varied scenery from dense forest to open views and potential bay vistas.
Are there easy hiking trails suitable for beginners in Paugus Bay State Forest?
Yes, Paugus Bay State Forest is very welcoming for beginners and those looking for an easy stroll. Out of the 14 available routes, 11 are classified as easy. A great option is the Fire road – Ahern State Park loop from Ahern State Park, which is an easy 1.3-mile trail perfect for a straightforward walk.
Are there any moderate hiking options in the Paugus Bay State Forest area?
Yes, for those looking for a slightly longer or more challenging experience, there are 3 moderate hiking routes available. One popular moderate option is the WOW and Winni Trail — Laconia, an 8.7-mile trail that leads through varied landscapes and typically takes around 3 hours and 35 minutes to complete.
Are there any circular walks in Paugus Bay State Forest?
Yes, several routes in the area are designed as loops, offering convenient circular walks. You could try the Rusty Bedspring, Upper Jakes, and Yo Benson loop — Ahern State Park, an easy 2.2-mile path, or the Stonedam Island loop — Meredith, which is an easy 1.8-mile loop.
Are the trails in Paugus Bay State Forest suitable for families with children?
Many of the trails in Paugus Bay State Forest are well-suited for families, especially given that 11 of the 14 routes are rated as easy. The diverse landscape with woodlands, wetlands, and streams offers an engaging environment for children to explore nature. Shorter loop trails like the Fire road – Ahern State Park loop are ideal for younger hikers.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails in Paugus Bay State Forest?
Generally, dogs are permitted on trails in New Hampshire State Forests, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. It's always a good idea to check specific regulations for state conservation lands before your visit. You can find more information on the State of NH Conservation Lands website: laconianh.gov.
What do other hikers enjoy the most about hiking in Paugus Bay State Forest?
The hiking experience in Paugus Bay State Forest is highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.7 stars from 6 reviews. Hikers often praise the tranquil atmosphere, the varied terrain encompassing woodlands and wetlands, and the opportunity for peaceful walks away from more crowded areas.
Is there parking available at the trailheads for Paugus Bay State Forest?
While specific parking details for Paugus Bay State Forest trails are not always explicitly listed, access points for state forests typically include designated parking areas. For routes that start in nearby parks like Ahern State Park, such as the Farm View Hilltop Trail loop — Ramblin' Vewe Farm, parking facilities are usually available at the park entrances.
What is the best time of year to visit Paugus Bay State Forest for hiking?
Paugus Bay State Forest offers a pleasant hiking experience across multiple seasons. Spring and fall provide comfortable temperatures and beautiful foliage, while summer allows for full enjoyment of the woodlands and wetlands. Winter hiking is also possible, though conditions may require appropriate gear for snow and ice. The varied landscape ensures scenic views year-round.
Are there any trails that offer views of Paugus Bay?
Paugus Bay State Forest stretches along the western shores of Paugus Bay, suggesting opportunities for scenic views of the bay and its surroundings. While specific viewpoints are not detailed for trails exclusively within the forest, routes in the broader area that hug the coastline or reach higher elevations may offer glimpses of the bay.
Most popular routes in Paugus Bay State Forest
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