Presidential Rail Trail and Cherry Pond Loop

The trail offers varied terrain. The Presidential Rail Trail section, built on a former railroad bed, generally has a gentle grade. You'll encounter dirt, gravel, packed earth, cinder, and some grassy sections. While some parts are double-track, others narrow to a single path. The loop around Cherry Pond may include footpaths and potentially short stretches along active railroad tracks, so exercise caution.

Yes, the trail is generally considered easy to moderate. The initial sections, such as the first 1.5 miles from the Airport Road trailhead in Whitefield, offer a gentle downhill slope through the forest, making them very accessible for beginners. More experienced joggers might find some of the less-groomed sections more challenging.

A common access point is the Airport Road trailhead in Whitefield. This trailhead provides a convenient starting point for the loop.

The trail is excellent for wildlife viewing. Keep an eye out for moose, black bears, wild turkeys, beavers, and otters. The Cherry Pond area, part of the Silvio O. Conte National Fish and Wildlife Refuge, is particularly known as a birdwatcher's paradise, with over 200 identified species and a heron rookery.

The best time to jog the Presidential Rail Trail and Cherry Pond Loop is during the snowless months, typically from April through October or November. During winter, some sections of the Presidential Rail Trail are open to ATVs/UTVs/snowmobiles, though OHRVs are not permitted in the Silvio O. Conte National Fish and Wildlife Refuge (Cherry Pond area) at any time.

While the Presidential Rail Trail generally allows dogs, specific regulations may apply within the Silvio O. Conte National Fish and Wildlife Refuge, which encompasses the Cherry Pond area. It's always best to check the refuge's official guidelines regarding pets and leash requirements before your visit.

Generally, there are no entrance fees or permits required for day use of the Silvio O. Conte National Fish and Wildlife Refuge, which includes the Cherry Pond area. However, specific activities or group events might require special permits, so it's advisable to check the official refuge website for any updates or specific regulations.

You'll enjoy stunning views of the White Mountains' Presidential Range, including Mount Washington. The trail passes through open meadows, wetlands, and forests. The Cherry Pond area is a major highlight, featuring tranquil waters, lily pads, and observation decks for enjoying the vistas and birdwatching. You'll also cross several rivers and may spot beaver ponds.

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Cohos Trail, the Cross New Hampshire Adventure Trail, and various segments of the Presidential Rail Trail itself. You'll also encounter parts of the Slide Brook Trail, Owl's Head Trail, and the Shore Path Trail.

As a former railroad bed, the trail offers glimpses into the region's industrial past. You might spot remnants of old railroad days, including bridges with hand-carved granite trusses and the site of an old water bottling plant.

Yes, the section near Cherry Pond includes an accessible trail that leads to a viewing platform, making it enjoyable for a wider range of visitors.