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Best easy hikes in Merrimack County
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Best easy hikes in Merrimack County

Looking for a leisurely stroll? These easy hikes are perfect for those who want to enjoy the great outdoors without breaking too much of a sweat.

Here are some great hikes to explore in Merrimack County.

Most popular hikes

1

Easy

Hooksett Riverwalk Trail

Merrimack County, New Hampshire · star 4.5 (26) · 3.6 km · Est. 43 min

2

Easy

Mountain Brook from Elbow Pond Road

Merrimack County, New Hampshire · star 4.6 (30) · 5.2 km · Est. 1 hrs 10 min

3

Easy

Heads Pond Trail

Merrimack County, New Hampshire · star 4.5 (22) · 4.7 km · Est. 58 min

4

Easy

Mast Yard State Forest - Rattlesnake Hill Trail

Merrimack County, New Hampshire · star 4.6 (20) · 11.7 km · Est. 2 hrs 32 min

5

Easy

Kezar Lake

Merrimack County, New Hampshire · star 4.5 (16) · 1.0 km · Est. 15 min

6

Easy

Broken Boulder Trail

Merrimack County, New Hampshire · star 4.6 (20) · 8.2 km · Est. 1 hrs 49 min

7

Easy

Clay Pond Trail via North Candia Road

Merrimack County, New Hampshire · star 4.7 (13) · 592 m · Est. 8 min

8

Easy

Page Hill Loop from Murray Hill Road

Merrimack County, New Hampshire · star 4.4 (14) · 8.9 km · Est. 2 hrs 8 min

9

Easy

Bobcat Trail and Salt Lick Trail Loop

Merrimack County, New Hampshire · star 4.5 (20) · 7.5 km · Est. 1 hrs 35 min

10

Easy

Contoocook River Park Trail

Merrimack County, New Hampshire · star 4.6 (29) · 2.4 km · Est. 35 min

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Reviews for easy hikes in Merrimack County

Ronnie Kemmer avatar

Hooksett Riverwalk Trail

OutriderTrailmaster80 · reviewed about 2 years ago

star star star star star

avatar

Mountain Brook from Elbow Pond Road

Mrsc · reviewed 2 months ago

star star star star star

Lovely walk on well maintained trail. Some bugs in mid-August, but manageable with spray. When you are almost to the waterfall (about 1.5 or 1.6 miles) there is a fork in the trail. Go left to get to the base of the falls.

Wilber Okuneva avatar

Heads Pond Trail

HavenFrontier44 · reviewed over 2 years ago

star star star star star

Carlee Greenfelder avatar

Mast Yard State Forest - Rattlesnake Hill Trail

WildAspenseeker15 · reviewed over 2 years ago

star star star star star

Dalton Torp avatar

Kezar Lake

AdventureBushwalker89 · reviewed over 2 years ago

star star star star star

Frequently asked questions for hikes in Merrimack County

What is the climate like for hiking in New Hampshire?

New Hampshire experiences four distinct seasons, each offering a unique hiking experience. Spring (March-May) is mild but can be muddy due to snowmelt. Summer (June-August) offers the warmest hiking conditions, but staying hydrated is essential.
Fall (September-November), with its mild temperatures and vivid autumn colors, is a favorite among hikers. Winter (December-February) can be challenging due to cold and snow, but it offers serene beauty for well-equipped hikers. Always check the weather before heading out. The New Hampshire State Parks (https://www.nhstateparks.org/) and the Mount Washington Observatory (https://www.mountwashington.org/) provide valuable information.

Do I need a permit to hike in New Hampshire?

Most hiking trails in New Hampshire do not require permits, but certain activities like camping or fishing might. For more details and to obtain necessary permits, it's advisable to check with the New Hampshire Division of Parks and Recreation (https://www.nhstateparks.org/) and the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department (https://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/).

Is wild camping allowed in New Hampshire?

Wild camping in New Hampshire is generally allowed in national forests with some restrictions, while it's limited in state parks to designated campgrounds. Always follow Leave No Trace principles. For camping regulations, refer to the White Mountain National Forest website (https://www.fs.usda.gov/whitemountain) and the New Hampshire State Parks site (https://www.nhstateparks.org/).

Are there mountain rescue services in New Hampshire?

For emergencies during hiking in New Hampshire, dial 911 to reach local authorities who will coordinate with the appropriate rescue services. The New Hampshire Fish and Game Department's Law Enforcement Division also assists with search and rescue operations. Visit their website for more information (https://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/law-enforcement/index.html).

Are there dangerous plants in New Hampshire?

New Hampshire's hiking trails wind through forests of birch, beech, and maple, with beautiful wildflowers blooming in spring and summer. Hikers should be aware of poison ivy in wooded areas. For more information on local flora, the New Hampshire Wildflowers website (https://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/habitat/types.html#:~:text=Appalachian%20oak%2Dpine%20forests%20are,mountain%20laurel%2C%20and%20sugar%20maple.) is a great resource.

What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in New Hampshire?

Hikers in New Hampshire may encounter a variety of wildlife, including white-tailed deer, moose, and numerous bird species. Ticks and mosquitoes are common during warmer months. Black bears are present but seldom seen. Visit the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department's website (https://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/) for detailed wildlife information.

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