The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Russell-Shea State Forest
4.8
(10)
77
hikers
20
hikes
If you've ever tried to plan hiking in Russell-Shea State Forest, you know how overwhelming the options can be. It's tough to tell which routes are genuinely worth your time and effort, and which are just filler. We get it – you want the highlights, not the guesswork.
That's where we come in. Our komoot community has explored, mapped, and reviewed these trails, so we've done the legwork for you. This guide is your curated shortlist of the routes that truly deliver, saving you from endless scrolling and disappointing detours.
Hiking in Russell-Shea State Forest feels like stepping into a classic New England woodland. You'll find yourself amidst mixed hardwood forests, discovering craggy granite ledges, and passing by peaceful ponds and brooks. The terrain is wonderfully varied, offering everything from gentle, easy paths to routes with moderate inclines, often winding past historical remnants like old mill sites and stone walls.
For a fantastic introduction to the forest, we'd start with the popular White Farm loop, an easy 2.6 miles (4.3 km) that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and accessibility. If you're looking for another local favorite that's equally gentle, the Rollins Park and Martin Park loop, at 3.7 miles (5.9 km), is a wonderful choice for a relaxed outing. Ready to explore? Dive into these routes and discover why more than 70 hikers love Russell-Shea State Forest with komoot.
Last updated: June 8, 2026
3
hikers
4.26km
01:05
20m
20m
The White Farm loop offers a delightful and easy hiking experience, perfect for a quick nature escape in Concord, New Hampshire. You'll wander through peaceful woodland walks, enjoy the shade of pine forests, and emerge into open fields, passing by cornfields and catching glimpses of the historic White Farm buildings. The minimal elevation changes make this a truly relaxing journey, ideal for all skill levels.
Planning your visit to the White Farm loop is straightforward; it's generally accessible year-round, making it a reliable choice for a spontaneous outing. Parking is usually available near the trailhead, and no permits are needed, so you can easily enjoy this 2.7-mile (4.3 km) route with its gentle 53 feet (16 metres) of elevation gain, which takes just over an hour to complete.
This easy route is a fantastic option for beginners or families, providing a rewarding outdoor experience without demanding strenuous effort. The White Farm property itself holds historical significance as a former stop on the Underground Railroad, adding a layer of cultural context to your walk through its varied landscapes.
989m
00:15
10m
10m
The White Park Loop offers a delightful, accessible escape right in Concord, New Hampshire, perfect for a quick breath of fresh air. This easy circular walk guides you through the pleasant surroundings of White Park, where you can enjoy the open green spaces and mature trees. It's a gentle experience, ideal for unwinding or a casual outing, especially if you're looking for a family friendly option.
Planning your visit to the White Park Loop is simple; the trailhead is easily accessible within White Park itself. Parking is generally available on-site, making it convenient for a spontaneous stop. This short route is suitable for all seasons, providing a consistent option for a brief outdoor activity whenever you find yourself in the area.
This particular White Park Loop stands out as a convenient urban oasis, offering a peaceful setting for a very short 0.6-mile (1.0 km) hike with only 20 feet (6 metres) of elevation gain, taking about 15 minutes. It's a great choice for a beginner hike or for those who appreciate a quick, easy win, perhaps combining it with a visit to the Picnic Area Near the Pond for a relaxed afternoon.
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5.89km
01:29
10m
10m
The Rollins Park and Martin Park loop offers a tranquil escape into local green spaces, perfect for a leisurely walk. You'll find yourself on a generally flat path, connecting two community parks, ideal for a peaceful stroll away from city noise. This easy hiking loop is designed for relaxation, allowing you to enjoy the natural surroundings without any demanding climbs or challenging terrain.
Planning your visit to this family-friendly hike is straightforward. Parking should be accessible at either Rollins Park or Martin Park, though it's always wise to arrive early, especially during peak times. This route is suitable for a quick outing any time of day, and its gentle nature makes it a great option for beginners or those with young children.
While specific details about the combined trail system are not extensively documented, the individual parks likely feature typical park amenities and green spaces. This loop provides a convenient way to experience both Rollins Park and Martin Park, offering a pleasant and accessible outdoor activity right in the heart of Merrimack County, New Hampshire.
2
hikers
8.86km
02:30
190m
190m
The Marjory Swope Park and Carter Hill Loop offers a delightful escape into nature, winding through diverse wooded terrain with moderately hilly sections. You'll hike past ancient geological features, including layered metamorphic rock and granite, and enjoy excellent views of Penacook Lake from certain sections. The route culminates in panoramic vistas from Jerry Hill, where you can spot distant peaks like Mount Monadnock, making it a rewarding experience for those who appreciate varied scenery.
This moderate 5.5-mile (8.9 km) hiking loop, with its 632 feet (193 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes to complete. Parking is available at the trailhead, and no permits or fees are required, making it an easy-to-access option for a half-day adventure. The trail is suitable for year-round use, with winter offering opportunities for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.
Beyond its natural beauty, the Marjory Swope Park and Carter Hill Loop is notable for its historical significance, established on land donated in memory of environmentalist Marjory Swope. The area also contains remnants of a former winter recreation area, adding a touch of local history to your hike. It serves as a gateway to a larger network of conserved lands, promising future connectivity for even more extensive exploration.
11
hikers
2.40km
00:42
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
White Park, a 25-acre public park, is home to a small pond, a picnic area, a playground, restrooms, and a few trails. There is a trolley stop right at the southeast corner of the park, and the park sits right next to the picturesque University of the New Hampshire School of Law.
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Once the backyard of the Swope family, this beautiful tract of land was donated by John Swope in honor of his wife, Marjory (although in the park's official name, this seems to be spelled Marjorie). This park has some nice, wooded trails for walking, running and, in winter, skiing. It's also a great starting place to link your adventure into the trails of other nearby parks.
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Once the backyard of the Swope family, this beautiful tract of land was donated by John Swope in honor of his wife, Marjory (although in the park's official name, this seems to be spelled Marjorie). This park has some nice, wooded trails for running, walking and, in winter, skiing. It's also a great starting place to link your adventure into the trails of other nearby parks.
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This park is for the most part a giant field, with some of it privately leased out for softball. The rest is open for multi-use, though, and there's a nice trail you can use to cut through to a nearby neighborhood if you like.
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During summer this park is a wonderful green space, with plenty of trees, a pretty little stone bridge, a gazebo, and paved trails you can use to extend your run if you like. During the winter, the city maintains an ice rink on the north side of the park. Rollins Park also contains playground equipment, the largest public pool in Concord, and fields for baseball, softball and field hockey. The pool is open only in the summer.
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This road takes you through cornfields on either side, and to the west you may catch glimpses of the historic buildings of White Farm. Altogether, this is one of the largest open spaces in Concord. If you want to veer off the road, there are hiking-only trails that go into the fields on both sides of the road.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available in Russell-Shea State Forest?
Russell-Shea State Forest offers a great selection of family-friendly hikes, with over 20 routes specifically curated for families. Most of these, 16 to be exact, are rated as easy, ensuring a pleasant experience for all ages.
What kind of terrain can we expect on family hikes in Russell-Shea State Forest?
The trails in Russell-Shea State Forest feature diverse terrain, from gentle paths through mixed hardwood forests to areas with craggy granite ledges, hidden ponds, marshes, and brooks. You'll find a good mix of easy-going routes with minimal elevation gain, perfect for families.
Are there any circular routes suitable for families in Russell-Shea State Forest?
Yes, there are several excellent circular routes perfect for families. For an easy option, consider the White Farm loop, which is about 4.2 km. Another popular choice is the Rollins Park and Martin Park loop, offering a slightly longer 5.8 km walk through urban parks.
What are some easy, short hikes for families with young children or toddlers?
For families with young children or toddlers looking for a very easy and short walk, the White Park Loop is an ideal choice. It's less than a kilometer long and takes only about 15 minutes to complete, making it perfect for little legs.
What natural features or landmarks can families discover along the trails?
Families can explore a variety of natural and historical features. The forest is characterized by beautiful mixed hardwood forests, granite ledges, and serene ponds and marshes. You might also spot historical elements, such as remnants of an 1818 potato starch mill operation, and garden plots within the state forest land. The Turkey River also flows along the forest's banks.
Are there any moderate trails for families seeking a bit more challenge?
Yes, for families looking for a slightly longer or more challenging hike, there are a few moderate options. The Jerry Hill loop from Saint Pauls School is a 7.5 km trail with varied terrain, and the Marjory Swope Park and Carter Hill Loop extends to about 8.8 km, offering more significant elevation changes.
What do other hikers say about the family-friendly trails in Russell-Shea State Forest?
The family-friendly trails in Russell-Shea State Forest are highly regarded by the komoot community, boasting an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars. Reviewers often praise the accessible nature of the trails, the beautiful natural scenery, and the suitability for various family members.
Is Russell-Shea State Forest a good place for birdwatching with kids?
Yes, the Silk Farm Wildlife Sanctuary, which includes the Great Turkey Pond, Old Orchard, and Wendy's Loop, is known for its diverse habitats and excellent birdwatching opportunities. It's a great spot to introduce children to local wildlife and enjoy nature.
What is the best time of year to visit Russell-Shea State Forest with family?
Russell-Shea State Forest offers picturesque scenery throughout all seasons. The mixed hardwood forests provide beautiful foliage in autumn, and the trails are generally accessible. Spring and summer are also wonderful for enjoying the lush greenery and spotting wildlife, while winter can offer a unique, quiet hiking experience, weather permitting.
Are there any specific plants or trees to look out for in the forest?
The forest is home to various interesting flora. Keep an eye out for beautiful mountain laurel and witch hazel, which add to the natural charm of the area. The mixed hardwood forests themselves offer a diverse range of tree species to identify.
Most popular routes in Russell-Shea State Forest
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