The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Northwood Meadows State Park
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Family friendly hiking trails in Northwood Meadows State Park traverse a diverse 668-acre wilderness area characterized by extensive wetlands, wooded landscapes, and rolling hills. The park serves as the headwaters of the Lamprey River, featuring unique natural elements like beaver flowages, black gum swamps, and the notable Burtt Wildlife Pond. Its terrain ranges from packed earth paths to unpaved roads, offering varied experiences within a classic New England wilderness setting.
Best family friendly hiking trails in Northwood Meadows State Park
- The most popular family friendly hiking route is Northwood Meadows State Park – Meadow Lake loop from Northwood, a 4.2 miles (6.7 km) easy trail that takes 1 hour 47 minutes to complete, offering views of Meadow Lake.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Dashingdown Road, an easy 2.0 miles (3.2 km) path that follows a gentle, wide track through the park's wooded areas.
- Local hikers also love the Lake Trail, a 1.1 miles (1.8 km) trail leading through wetlands and alongside Burtt Wildlife Pond, often completed in about 27 minutes.
- Hiking in Northwood Meadows State Park is defined by vast wetlands, dense woodlands, and accessible paths around Burtt Wildlife Pond. The network offers options for different ability levels, from short, easy walks to longer, moderate loops.
- The routes in Northwood Meadows State Park are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.9 stars from over 19 reviews. More than 108 hikers have used komoot to explore Northwood Meadows State Park's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 7, 2026
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hikers
7.38km
02:01
120m
120m
Embark on the NALMC Trail, a moderate hiking route that offers a diverse landscape within Northwood Meadows State Park. This 4.6-mile (7.4 km) journey begins with a steep incline, guiding you into peaceful wooded areas before the scenery opens up to expansive fields. You will follow old dirt roads, re-entering the forest as the path eventually loops back to its starting point. Keep an eye out for Meadow Lake, a serene visual landmark that adds to the varied scenery. With an elevation gain of 387 feet (118 metres), you can expect to complete this hike in about 2 hours and 1 minute.
The NALMC Trail is a versatile path, welcoming not only hikers but also mountain bikers. During winter months, the route transforms to accommodate snowshoers and Nordic skiers, with backcountry snow grooming occurring for their use. You will find parking generally available at the trailhead, making access straightforward for your visit. There are no specific warnings regarding permits or seasonal closures to consider before heading out.
This trail stands out for its accessibility and varied terrain within Northwood Meadows State Park. It provides a straightforward yet rewarding outdoor experience, showcasing the park's natural beauty. The combination of wooded sections, open fields, and the tranquil Meadow Lake makes it a notable option for those seeking a moderate adventure. Its multi-use nature also highlights its role as a community asset, catering to different outdoor enthusiasts throughout the year.
3.25km
00:52
40m
20m
The Dashingdown Road trail offers a delightful, easy hike through the serene forested landscapes of Northwood Meadows State Park. You'll wander along a wide, well-maintained path of dirt and gravel, enjoying the natural setting and occasional views towards Meadow Lake. This 2.0-mile (3.2 km) route features a modest 120 feet (36 metres) of elevation gain, making it a comfortable 51-minute walk suitable for nearly everyone.
When planning your visit, you'll find free parking available, adding to the convenience of this popular hiking route. The trail is consistently easy to follow and well-maintained, welcoming hikers of all ages and fitness levels. Dogs are also permitted, so feel free to bring your furry friend along for this accessible outdoor adventure.
Situated within the expansive 674.5 acres of Northwood Meadows State Park, the Dashingdown Road trail is more than just a simple walk; it's a versatile multi-use pathway. Beyond hiking, it's popular for mountain biking, horseback riding, and in winter, snowshoeing and Nordic skiing, with some sections even groomed for backcountry snow. It also acts as a gateway to other trails within the park, like the Lake Loop Trail, offering further exploration.
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1.76km
00:27
10m
10m
The Lake Trail offers a tranquil, easy walk around Meadow Lake, providing a refreshing escape into nature without demanding much effort. You'll enjoy continuous views of the water, making it a delightful option for a peaceful outing. The path is generally flat and well-maintained, perfect for a leisurely pace and soaking in the natural surroundings.
This accessible route is a quick 1.1-mile (1.8 km) hike with only 40 feet (12 metres) of elevation gain, taking approximately 27 minutes. Parking is typically available at the trailhead, and its easy difficulty makes it a great choice for families, beginners, or anyone looking for a short, relaxing stroll. It's a good option for a spontaneous outdoor activity.
Located in Rockingham County, New Hampshire, this Lake Trail provides a simple yet rewarding connection to the local environment. While not a challenging trek, its focus on Meadow Lake offers a quiet spot to observe local flora and fauna, making it a pleasant addition to any day out in the region.
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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
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3
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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Meadow Lake is the bigger of the two reservoirs within Northwood Meadows State Park (Demon Pond is the smaller body of water). There are trails hugging the banks of the water, and you can easily connect to other paths in the park from here.
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Meadow Lake is the bigger of the two reservoirs within Northwood Meadows State Park (Demon Pond is the smaller body of water). There are trails hugging the banks of the water, and you can easily connect to other paths in the park from here.
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Northwood Meadows State Park is a 674-acre state park with miles of trails through woodlands and wetlands.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails can I find in Northwood Meadows State Park?
Northwood Meadows State Park offers a good selection of family-friendly hiking trails. You'll find 9 routes in this guide, with 6 of them rated as easy, making them perfect for outings with children.
What kind of terrain can we expect on family hikes in Northwood Meadows State Park?
The trails in Northwood Meadows State Park are generally described as ranging from easy to moderate, making them suitable for families. You can expect paths of packed earth, dirt, and unpaved roads, winding through a primarily wooded setting with diverse ecosystems including wetlands and beaver flowages.
Are there any easy loop trails suitable for families?
Yes, there are several easy loop options. For a pleasant family outing, consider the Northwood Meadows State Park – Meadow Lake loop from Northwood, which offers a scenic circular route.
What natural features or points of interest can we discover on a family hike?
Northwood Meadows State Park is rich in natural beauty. A highlight is Burtt Wildlife Pond, which has a universally-accessible graveled trail leading to it. You'll also encounter extensive wetlands, beaver flowages, and diverse ecosystems like black gum swamps and fens, providing excellent opportunities for nature observation.
Are dogs allowed on the family-friendly trails in Northwood Meadows State Park?
Yes, Northwood Meadows State Park is generally dog-friendly. Please ensure your dog is kept on a leash and that you clean up after them to maintain a pleasant experience for all visitors and protect the park's wildlife.
What is the best time of year to go hiking with family in Northwood Meadows State Park?
Northwood Meadows State Park is open year-round, offering different experiences with each season. Spring and fall provide comfortable temperatures and beautiful foliage, while summer is great for enjoying the pond. Even winter offers opportunities for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing on the trails.
How long do the family-friendly hikes typically take?
The duration of hikes varies depending on the trail and your family's pace. For example, the Lake Trail is a shorter, easy option, while the NALMC Trail is longer and more moderate, taking a few hours. You can find specific durations listed for each route in the guide.
Is there accessible parking available for the trails?
Yes, parking is available at Northwood Meadows State Park. The park is unstaffed but provides access to the trail system. Specific trailheads and parking areas can be found on detailed maps of the park.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Northwood Meadows State Park?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars. Reviewers often praise the peaceful, uncrowded experience, the diverse natural features like the wetlands and Burtt Wildlife Pond, and the well-maintained trails suitable for various activity levels.
Are there any trails that lead to viewpoints or offer scenic vistas?
While many trails offer beautiful wooded scenery, for a more elevated view, the park provides access to the Saddleback Mountain Trail. This trail ascends to a peak at 1050 feet and offers a vista overlook at 1000 feet, providing broader views of the surrounding landscape.
Are there any particularly easy trails for families with very young children or strollers?
Yes, the universally-accessible graveled trail leading directly to Burtt Wildlife Pond is an excellent choice for families with very young children or those using strollers, offering an easy and enjoyable outing.
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