A Guide to Public Trail Systems in the State
Most equestrians agree that the best way to experience the beauty of New Hampshire is on your horse. After all, what compares to the “view between the ears”? Many of our employees and customers are avid trail riders, enjoying spending time with their horses and equestrian companions while exploring the great outdoors. We have compiled a list of some of the best trails in our great state to help you get out and enjoy the scenery. Let us know if you have more suggestions for incredible trail riding!
Common Courtesies
Before you head out on your ride, it is important to treat the trails and parking areas with environmental awareness and respect. It is a true privilege to ride on well-maintained trails with your horse. Many different outdoor enthusiasts utilize these trails, so it is essential that equestrians do their part to share the trails wisely with dogs, hikers, bicyclists, and even motorized vehicles.
When utilizing public trail systems, an in-depth understanding of proper trail etiquette is imperative. Make sure that you treat everyone that you meet on the trail courteously. If your horse is afraid of bikes, dogs, or ATVs, try to safely get off of the trail and allow space, or quickly dismount for the safety of everyone involved. It is important to remember that all sportsmen are welcome on the trails and, in fact, make public trail systems possible.
In the fall, you will also want to wear brightly colored clothing and make an effort to make a bit of noise (i.e. talking with your riding companion or using a trail bell, like the Weaver Leather Hiker Bell). This is to alert hunters that you are on trails and to make sure that you are as safe as possible. Consider outfitting your horse in bright colors as well — we carry a number of products that make it easy to ensure your horse is highly visible, including the Waldhausen Reflex Hind Exercise Sheet and the Shires Equi-Flector Mesh Exercise Sheet. To learn more about proper trail riding attire and behaviors, we encourage you to read our blog post, Safe Trail Riding and Hiking in the Fall.
Whenever possible, ride with a friend or acquaintance — it is generally recommended to head out on trail rides with a companion so you are not alone in case of an unforeseen problem. Be sure that you are prepared in case of emergency, and carry the necessary emergency equipment, including a map, compass, a charged cell phone, first aid kit, extra water, and high-calorie snacks.
Hit The Trail
Here are a number of public trail systems that, at that time of writing, were appropriate for horses and welcomed them. Before heading out to any of these locations, we recommend that you verify that you and your horse will be welcome, safe, and allowed on the trails. If you are headed out to a New Hampshire State Park, please refer to their updated rules for equestrians prior to visiting. Many of these options also allow camping, which is a great way to travel with your horse. Refer to our blog post, Explore Camping With Horses, for more information regarding necessary equipment for your camping trip.
Click the title of each trail/park destination for additional information about the trail system, including address, parking suggestions, and contact information.
Southwest New Hampshire Trails
The largest state park in New Hampshire, Pisgah State Park encompasses over 13,600 acres in the southern portion of the state with over 20 miles of multi-use trails through the Ashuelot River Watershed. The park has four highland ridges and seven ponds which can be reached by many of the trails. There are a number of trailheads including Horseshoe Road in Chesterfield, NH, that can accommodate horse trailer parking. Trails range in length from 0.6 miles to nearly 5 miles.
With over 10,000 acres, Bear Brook State Park in Allentown, NH, has a number of trails and camping areas that are suitable for horses. Because of the popularity of the park, it is important to make reservations ahead of time. In addition to hiking/riding trails, the park also offers archery, swimming, and fishing. There are over 40 miles of trails that are suitable for horses.
This 42-mile trail runs through Fitzwilliam, Troy, Keene, Westmoreland, and North Walpole, NH. However, there are a number of parking areas along the trail, allowing you to make the ride as short or as long as you would like. There is a break in the trail in Keene, so make sure you plan on this prior to your ride. This is a popular trail system for walking, biking, and riding in Southern New Hampshire.
Monadnock Recreational Rail Trail
Running from the Massachusetts border to Jaffery, NH, this 7-mile trail passes by a number of ponds and wetlands. There is a busy road crossing (over 202), so please make sure that your horse is prepared to encounter traffic prior to trying out this trail.
Fort Hill Recreational Rail Trail
This 9-mile trail in Hinsdale, NH, is relatively flat with wonderful views of the Connecticut River. In the summer, it is a quiet trail, with a few hikers. However, in the winter months, it is very popular for snowmobiling and snowshoeing.
Running from Keene, NH, to Winchester, NH, this former railroad track follows the Ashuelot River. With over 20 miles of well-groomed trails, this is a popular trail in both the summer and winter months. You can see scenes from this picturesque trail on the blog, Ashuelot River Inspiration.
Hillsborough Recreational Rail Trail
Located in Hillsborough, NH, this 8-mile trail follows the Contoocook River. This trail also meanders through historic mill sites and crosses over antique railroad tracks and tresses.
Southeast New Hampshire Trails
This wooded park with easily accessible trails in Northwood, NH, is beloved by equestrians and hiking enthusiasts alike. The park also contains a serene pond that is popular for fishing. It has trails from .4 miles to 5 miles long.
Pawtuckaway State Park in Nottingham, NH, showcases a number of points of interest that are accessible via its extensive trail system. Sights include a fire tower, a marsh (where you can often see blue herons), and a field with glacial erratics which were deposited when glacial ice melted during the end of the Ice Age. The most popular trail is 2 miles long, but the park has both shorter and longer trails.
This loop in Auburn, NH, is just under 4 miles, making it a wonderful trail for a morning ride or an afternoon amble. With relatively flat terrain, it is appropriate for equestrians of all skill levels. The trailhead shares parking with the Audubon Society, so we encourage you to keep your eyes open for the birds you may encounter!
The Beaver Brook Nature Center in Hollis, NH, has over 35 miles of trails to enjoy. These multi-purpose trails are utilized by hikers, equestrians, and well-behaved dogs, and are open to public use (even though it is a privately owned property). This is an incredible nature preserve as well, so you will encounter a variety of local plant and animal species.
This trail system in Merrimack, NH, is a network of old logging trails which have been carefully maintained. Offering a variety of terrain, from flat sections to steep hills, the Horse Hill Nature Preserve is popular for hikers, bikers, hunters, snowmobilers, and horseback riders. The loop is just over 4 miles, but there are a number of shorter trails to enjoy as well.
Owned by the town of Mont Vernon, this 310-acre farm includes miles of recreational trails. The farm was founded in 1770 by the early settlers and has been preserved by the town for its historical significance. The trails are open to the public and all are under 1 mile each, but you can connect the trails for a leisurely day of trail riding.
Rockingham Recreational Rail Trail
This 25-mile trail runs from Manchester, NH, to Newfields, NH. It traverses through small scenic towns, historic sites, and diverse wetlands, making an interesting sightseeing experience. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for wildlife on this trail!
Northern New Hampshire Trails
Northern Recreational Rail Trail
With over 48 miles of trails, this is the longest trail in the rail-trail system. The beautiful, scenic trail runs from Franklin, NH, to Lebanon, NH, and meanders through many of the small towns along the way. The trail even leads you by Highland Lake, with spectacular views.
Presidential Recreational Rail Trail
This 18-mile trail in Gorham, NH, passes through the Silvio O. Conte National Fish and Wildlife Refuge. It offers spectacular views of the Presidential Mountain Range.
Ammonoosuc Recreational Rail Trail
Running from Woodsville, NH, to Lincoln, NH, this 19-mile trail follows along the Ammonoosuc River. Be ready to see historic sites, such as a massive 345 foot bridge built in 1832 and the Lisbon Trail Depot.
Warren Recreational Rail Trail
This trail in Warren, NH, is only 4 miles long, making it a wonderful short and sweet ride. The trail offers beautiful scenery, including Black Brook and a Redstone Missile (an actual NASA rocket).
Sugar River Recreational Rail Trail
A 9-mile trail from Newport, NH, to Claremont, NH, follows along the Sugar River. This lovely trail also has two covered bridges — be sure to bring your camera for these great photo ops!
Hopefully, we have inspired you to saddle up and head out to hit the trails! If you prefer trail riding in a group, consider referring to the New Hampshire Horse and Trail Association for a list of organized trail rides. As always, we implore you to use caution and discretion whenever utilizing a new trail system. If you have suggestions for trails that we may have missed, please leave us a comment below.
The Kilburn Trailhead at Pisgah State Park does not accommodate horse trailers. It is quite small. As well the trails on that western side of the park are not designated for Equestrian use. Perhaps you should check with park ranger Kim Nilsen, and update your blog. Trailers could be parked at the Horseshoe trail head and the visitor center as well as the route 119 trail head.
Hi Laura, thank you for pointing that out. We’ve been in touch with Kim and confirmed that you are correct. The blog post has been updated to reflect that.