Phillips Exeter Academy Red Trail

The Red Trail offers a generally easy hiking experience. While there's a segment with a 33-foot descent, the overall elevation changes are minimal. You'll find gentle paths, some double-wide, winding through forests, open fields, and wetland areas within the Academy Woodlands.

Yes, the Red Trail is considered to have an "easy overall physical rating" and is very family-friendly. Its gentle terrain and well-maintained paths make it a great option for beginners and hikers of all ages.

You can expect diverse scenery, including lush forests, open fields, and wetland areas. The trail network runs along the Exeter River, offering potential riverside views. In the fall, the changing leaves provide a particularly beautiful backdrop. You'll also pass through the Academy Woods.

The Academy Woodlands are known for their wildlife habitat. While specific sightings vary, you might spot various birds, small mammals, and other local fauna typical of New England forests and wetlands.

The Phillips Exeter Academy Woodlands Trail Network, which includes the Red Trail, is openly accessible to the public. Parking information is typically available through the Academy's visitor resources or local Exeter town websites. It's advisable to check for designated public parking areas near the Academy campus or trailheads.

No, the Phillips Exeter Academy Woodlands Trail Network, including the Red Trail, is openly accessible to the public, and there are no permits or entrance fees required to hike here. It serves as a community resource.

Yes, the trails within the Academy Woodlands are generally dog-friendly. However, it's always best to keep your dog on a leash and practice Leave No Trace principles, including picking up after your pet, to ensure a pleasant experience for all users.

The Red Trail can be enjoyed year-round. Fall is particularly scenic due to the vibrant foliage. Spring offers fresh greenery, and summer provides a shaded escape. In winter, the trails are also suitable for activities like snowshoeing and Nordic skiing.

Yes, the Red Trail is part of the broader Academy Woodlands Trail Network. This route specifically covers 100% of the Red Trail, but it also passes through sections of the Blue Trail (30%), Jude's Pond Loop (26%), White Trail (26%), and Stadium Trail (8%).

The Phillips Exeter Academy Red Trail, as mapped here, is a loop. The broader Academy Woodlands network offers various interconnected trails, allowing for different loop configurations depending on how you combine them.

Yes, the Academy Woodlands are conveniently located just a block from downtown Exeter. This means you'll find various cafes, restaurants, and other amenities within easy walking or driving distance after your hike.