The best running trails in New Hampshire

Prepare for a demanding jogging adventure on the Presidential Traverse, a difficult route spanning 34.6 miles (55.7 km) with an impressive 11360 feet (3462 metres) of elevation gain. You will spend an estimated 9 hours and 52 minutes navigating dramatic alpine ridges and experiencing expansive views across the White Mountains. Much of the trail runs above the treeline, offering prolonged vistas, and you will summit numerous peaks, including the iconic Mount Washington Summit.

Planning your visit requires careful attention to the highly unpredictable weather, which can be severe even in summer. Because you will be exposed above the treeline for extended periods, you must carry essential emergency gear and know your bail-out routes. This route demands a high degree of preparedness for its rugged and technical terrain, so check conditions thoroughly before you go.

The Presidential Traverse is recognized as one of New England's most challenging endurance tests, featuring the most prolonged continuous stretch of above-treeline running in the Eastern United States. This iconic adventure offers a significant physical and mental test, making it a notable achievement for any trail runner. You will encounter a unique environment where the weather shapes the landscape and the experience.

The Tuckerman Ravine and Lion's Head Trail Loop offers a difficult and rugged jogging experience through varied alpine scenery. You'll begin with a gradual climb before the path steepens considerably beyond Crystal Cascade, often requiring bouldering and rock scrambling. This 8.0-mile (12.9 km) loop features 4126 feet (1258 metres) of elevation gain, with an estimated duration of 2 hours and 39 minutes for those attempting to jog it.

Prepare for a challenging outing that demands sturdy shoes and sure-footedness; continuous jogging is largely impractical due to the technical nature of the path. While rated for jogging, many experienced individuals tackle this route as a strenuous hike, which typically takes around 5 to 7 hours. Plan your visit accordingly, ensuring you have the necessary fitness and alpine experience.

This loop is set within the White Mountain National Forest, guiding you past Hermit Lake, an alpine lake at the base of the iconic Tuckerman Ravine. You'll also ascend to the distinctive sheer rock peak of Lion's Head, and from the summit of Mount Washington, you can enjoy unparalleled 360-degree views. It's a notable route for its demanding character and spectacular high-alpine environment.

Embark on the Cove, Tow, Yellow and Red Trail Loop for a refreshing jogging experience through Mine Falls Park. This moderate route spans 3.7 miles (6.0 km) and involves a gentle elevation gain of 89 feet (27 metres), typically completed in about 38 minutes. As you jog, you will follow winding paths alongside the Nashua Canal and Nashua River, offering serene water views and glimpses of diverse wetlands. Keep an eye out for local birdlife and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere as you pass through a varied landscape of forests and open fields. The trail provides a pleasant escape into nature, perfect for a quick workout.

Mine Falls Park offers easy access for your jogging adventure, featuring multiple entrances and ample parking facilities. This makes starting your journey on the Cove, Tow, Yellow and Red Trail Loop straightforward and convenient. The park's extensive trail network also allows you to customize your route if you wish to explore further. There are no specific warnings regarding snow conditions, road closures, or permits mentioned for this trail, ensuring a hassle-free visit.

This route is a highlight within Mine Falls Park, an accessible urban oasis that blends natural beauty with convenience. You will experience a rich mix of environments, from dense forests to open fields and vital wetlands. The trail's course along the Nashua Canal and Nashua River provides continuous scenic views, including overlooks of Oxbow Lake. It is a popular spot for locals seeking outdoor activities, offering a tranquil setting right within the city.

Embark on the Tower Hill Pond loop, a moderate jogging route that offers a refreshing workout in the Manchester Water Works area. This 3.8-mile (6.1 km) trail features a gentle elevation gain of 96 feet (29 metres), making it achievable in about 44 minutes. As you jog, you'll enjoy pleasant views of Tower Hill Pond, especially vibrant during the autumn months, and pass through adjacent woodlands. The varied terrain includes paved sections, old road grades, and stretches of dirt, gravel, and fire roads, providing a diverse experience.

When planning your visit, be aware that swimming, wading, and fires are strictly prohibited on the Tower Hill Pond loop due to its location within a public water supply area. Dogs are welcome to join you, but they must be kept on a leash at all times to protect the natural environment. If you plan to jog between June and August, remember that the trail can be quite buggy, so bringing insect repellent is highly recommended for a more comfortable experience.

This route is notable for its protected natural setting, offering a serene escape with a mix of natural and semi-paved surfaces. The Lake path highlight provides particularly scenic waterside stretches, allowing you to connect with the tranquil surroundings. It's a great option for a quick, accessible jog that combines exercise with peaceful pond views and woodland scenery.

Prepare for a challenging jogging experience on the Hancock Loop Trail, a difficult route covering 9.1 miles (14.7 km). You will encounter varied terrain, beginning with a relatively flat section along the scenic North Fork of the Hancock Branch of the Pemigewasset River. As you ascend, the path becomes steeper and rockier, leading you towards the summits of North and South Hancock. This strenuous workout involves gaining 2379 feet (725 metres) in elevation, typically taking around 2 hours and 3 minutes to complete. From the South Peak, you can enjoy expansive views to the east, while the North Peak offers vistas south towards the Sandwich Range, providing a true sense of wilderness.

To begin your journey, head to the Hancock Overlook, which serves as the starting point for the loop and is conveniently located on the Kancamagus Highway. It is advisable to plan your visit when water levels are low, as the trail features numerous brook crossings that can become challenging. While the trail is accessible for much of the year, it is particularly recommended for fall foliage excursions when the surrounding landscape is vibrant with color.

This route offers a deep immersion into the White Mountain National Forest, showcasing its rugged beauty and diverse ecosystems. The progression from riverside paths to exposed mountain peaks highlights the region's dramatic geological features. The Hancock Loop Trail stands out as an excellent option if you are seeking a demanding workout combined with the serene solitude of a true wilderness setting.

Lace up for an easy jogging experience on the Lake Avenue & Burkehaven Hill Road 5k loop. This route offers a smooth run on mostly paved surfaces, perfect for a quick outing. You'll enjoy scenic views of Sunapee Lake, catching glimpses of the water through the trees as you follow Lake Avenue. The trail also winds through a refreshing section of forest, providing a pleasant change of scenery. Covering 3.1 miles (5.0 km) with an elevation gain of 258 feet (79 metres), this easy loop takes approximately 32 minutes to complete.

This accessible jogging loop is suitable for all fitness levels, making it a great choice for a spontaneous run. You can generally find parking available along both Lake Avenue and Burkehaven Hill Road, which are public roads often used for local events. There are no specific permits or fees required to enjoy this route, offering a hassle-free experience.

The Lake Avenue & Burkehaven Hill Road loop is known for its convenient accessibility and paved terrain, making it a popular option for a relaxed run. Its location around Sunapee Lake provides a tranquil backdrop, ideal for those seeking a peaceful escape without venturing too far off the beaten path. This route stands out as a straightforward and enjoyable way to experience the lakeside surroundings.

Embark on the Moat Mountain Trail, a difficult jogging route spanning 5.1 miles (8.2 km) with a significant elevation gain of 1986 feet (605 metres). This challenging path, estimated to take 1 hours and 28 minutes, leads you through varied terrain including wooded sections, rocky ascents, and open ledges. Your reward is the open, rocky summit of South Moat Mountain, offering expansive 360-degree panoramic views across the White Mountain National Forest, including Mount Washington and the Presidential Range.

When planning your visit, be prepared for sustained elevation gain and steep climbs over rocky and exposed sections. Some parts of the trail might require rock scrambling, and stream crossings can make the path wet, so wearing appropriate footwear is essential. While the northern half of the traverse is generally more runnable, always use caution on technical sections, especially when rocks are wet.

This route is ideal if you are an experienced trail runner seeking a substantial challenge within the White Mountain National Forest. The diverse environment and the rewarding summit views make it a notable option for those looking to push their limits and experience the rugged beauty of the region.

Embark on the Granite Town and Brookline Rail Trails Loop, a challenging jogging route spanning 13.8 miles (22.3 km) with an elevation gain of 498 feet (152 metres). You can expect to complete this difficult loop in about 2 hours and 25 minutes. As you jog, you will experience varied terrain, moving through peaceful woods and alongside the tranquil Great Brook, with scenic beaver ponds and glimpses of Potanipo Pond adding to the natural beauty. The path itself is a mix of hard-packed dirt, sand, and gravel, featuring some rustic sections with dense tree roots and rocky areas, especially near a former granite quarry.

Before you head out, be prepared for the largely unpaved surfaces and varied terrain; while much of the route follows old rail beds, some sections include hills and embedded railroad ties. Parking is generally available at trailheads, but it is always a good idea to check local details for the Granite Town and Brookline Rail Trails Loop before your visit. This will help ensure a smooth start to your jogging adventure.

This unique route combines two distinct rail trails, offering a rewarding experience for joggers who appreciate a blend of natural scenery and historical pathways. The trail's character is shaped by its past as a railway, with sections that still hint at its industrial heritage, including the aforementioned former granite quarry. It stands out in the region for its combination of length, varied surfaces, and the opportunity to explore two rail trails in one continuous loop.

Start your jogging adventure on the Pleasant Lake loop and Elkins Beach, a moderate route covering 5.6 miles (9.0 km) with 255 feet (78 metres) of elevation gain. You can expect to complete this scenic jog in about 56 minutes. As you move, you'll enjoy picturesque views of Pleasant Lake peeking through the trees, creating a classic New England atmosphere. The path is mostly paved, offering a smooth surface, though you will encounter some slight inclines that add to the moderate challenge. A key highlight is Elkins Beach, a welcoming sandy inlet on the lake's eastern side, perfect for a brief pause.

This route is a popular choice for various outdoor activities, including jogging and biking, so you might share the path with others. If you plan to jog the Pleasant Lake loop, you'll find parking generally available near Elkins Beach, making access straightforward. Elkins Beach itself is a public beach, open to town residents and guests, ensuring general accessibility for everyone. Consider starting your jog earlier in the day to enjoy the tranquility before it gets too busy.

This trail offers an ideal blend of exercise and natural beauty, making it a notable option for joggers seeking a scenic and accessible experience in New London, New Hampshire. The presence of Elkins Beach provides a unique opportunity to enjoy the water and the surrounding landscape. It's a perfect example of a picture-perfect New England setting, offering a refreshing escape.