
Now that the weather is warming up, many Concord residents are itching to get outdoors. If you're in the mood for a hike, our real estate agents have you covered. Here are some of their favorite hiking trails from around the Concord area.
- Turkey Pond Loop - 84 Silk Farm Rd, Concord, NH 03301
The Turkey Pond Loop is an easy 4.2 km path that lets you get a little taste of nature without starting too far from Concord's core. As the name suggests, this trail takes you to the banks of Turkey Pond before sidling past the Old Orchard and looping around the side of St. Paul's school. The path is partially paved with some raised walkways to help you navigate the forest floor. The walk is extremely peaceful, offering beautiful views of the water as well as many interesting rock formations and lookout structures along the way.
- Jim Hill Riverwalk - 2-198 Runnells Rd, Concord, NH 03303
Perfect for a casual afternoon outing, the Jim Hill Riverwalk offers a long, leisurely stroll on mostly level ground. Traveling the full 6 km path will reward you with excellent views of the free-flowing river as you trek through the trees. You'll even get to cross the river itself on a small wooden footbridge that is sure to make you feel like a true explorer. Those with a little more time on their hands can stop by Daisy Beach, a small outcrop along the trail where you'll find a rope swing and a picnic table as well as a shallow river entrance for fishing and wading.
- Oak Hill Lower Trail - Concord School District, Concord, NH 03301
If you're a seasoned hiker looking for a challenge, the Oak Hill Lower Trail might be the one for you. This is one of the more advanced trails on our list, featuring a 4.2 km loop with elevation gains of up to 140m. If you're not a confident hiker, you may want to bring a friend to make sure you stay safe and motivated on your ascent. You'll work hard to get to the highest point, but rest assured that the reward is worth it. On top of a good workout, you'll get to enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding woods and mountains.
- Contoocook River Park Trails - Concord, NH 03303
The Contoocook River Park Trails consist of several easy, quiet trails that run through the area near the Contoocook River. These are great trails for children to hike on, offering short but visually interesting routes with many places to stop and observe the surroundings. There are several shallow areas and fishing spots around the banks of the river, all of which are great places to scout for frogs, waterfowl, and other wildlife in the area. It's a great place to familiarize yourself with Concord's ecosystem and the plants and animals that call it home. See how many discoveries you can make in a single afternoon!
- Swope Loop - Concord School District, Concord, NH 03301
Swope Loop is a popular 2.4 km trail loop located in Marjorie Swope Park. Concord residents love walking this trail in all seasons, following the entire circuit around Jerry Hill. Despite being an easy trail, this path is located on high ground. This gives you the chance to enjoy beautiful vistas as you walk without over-taxing yourself with a major climb. You'll also spot plenty of interesting landmarks created by local hikers on your way, including rock walls and forts made from woodland debris.
- Les Clark Nature Trail - 2-82 Portsmouth Street, Concord, NH 03301
The Les Clark Nature trail is a short, simple loop trail that passes next to Merrill Park and runs right next to the Merrimack River. With almost no elevation gain and a path that can be fully traversed in less than half an hour, this trail is just right for beginner hikers or those who want to focus on sightseeing while they're out. There are even benches along the way where you can stop to watch the wading birds in the marsh or just take a short breather before moving on. Take the walk at your own pace and enjoy your surroundings - once you've conquered this trail, you're sure to be ready for more adventures.
Whether you're into nature, fitness, or just spending time with family and friends, the outdoor spaces in the Concord region are one of the area's biggest draws. Contact us today to speak to one of our agents and start looking for your next home in this gorgeous corner of New Hampshire.