The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Ahern State Park
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Hiking in Ahern State Park offers a diverse outdoor experience across its 128 acres along Lake Winnisquam. The park features a varied trail system through wooded areas and along 3,500 feet of shoreline. Terrain includes mostly flat sections near the lake and paths with gentle elevation changes through the forest. A crushed limestone fire road provides an accessible, mostly flat option with scenic views of Lake Winnisquam.
Best family friendly hiking trails in Ahern State Park
- The most popular family…
Last updated: May 13, 2026
1
hikers
3.52km
00:55
20m
20m
Embark on the Rusty Bedspring, Upper Jakes, and Yo Benson Loop for an easy hike through the natural surroundings of Ahern State Park. This pleasant route covers 2.2 miles (3.5…
2
hikers
2.03km
00:34
40m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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1
hikers
13.9km
03:36
80m
80m
Hike the 8.7-mile WOW and Winni Trail, a moderate route offering scenic views of Lake Winnisquam and historical rail trail features.
2
hikers
4.73km
01:20
100m
100m
Embark on the Farm Vewe Hilltop Trail, an easy hike that takes you through the peaceful New Hampshire countryside. This route spans 2.9 miles (4.7 km) and involves a gentle…
9
hikers
6.99km
01:56
130m
130m
Embark on the Hamlin Trail loop, an easy 4.3 miles (7.0 km) hike that takes you through diverse landscapes. You will gain 423 feet (129 metres) in elevation over an…
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Tips from the Community
This highlight is a general informative comment about the area. The Ramblin Vewe Farm is a conservation trust created by Dick and Betty Persons. In addition to conservation and good forest practices, they turned the farm into a recreational area with a variety of well maintained trails. Despite the tour difficulty indicated by Komoot, be aware that the MTB trails vary between green and black diamond levels.
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Ahern State park is 28 acres on the shore of Lake Winnisquam. There is a crushed limestone fire road that runs the outer rim of the park. It is a mostly flat and easy ride that gives some great views of the lake.
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Lake Wicwas is 328 acres and surrounded by forest and marshes. It is a popular bird watching area as the lake is home to many birds, including loons, herons and ducks.
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The Lakeport trailhead for access to the Winnipesaukee-Opechee-Winnisquam (WOW) Trail. There is parking, a restroom and some benches at the start of the trail.
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From the hilltop you can see out across Lake Winnipesaukee to the Ossipee Mountains in the distance.
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If you follow Boyd Hill Road straight at the fork you will come to the parking lot. The trails from here are usually well maintained and network heavily with each other. This makes it easy to customize your hike but note that the trails may not match exactly with digital maps.
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The Winni Trail is a paved scenic lakeside bike path that joins with the WOW (Winnipesaukee-Opechee-Winnisquam) Trail near the Laconia Bypass. Across from the bypass is the Leslie E. Roberts Beach, which makes for a nice destination.
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The Lakeport Trailhead has some stairs leading to the WOW trail — if you are biking or need a more accessible path you can loop around the parking lot from the north and join the trail via Elm Street.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available in Ahern State Park?
Ahern State Park offers 8 dedicated family-friendly hiking trails, ranging from easy strolls to slightly more moderate adventures. Most of these, 7 to be exact, are classified as easy, making them perfect for families with children.
What kind of terrain can we expect on family hikes in Ahern State Park?
You'll find a variety of terrain suitable for families. Many trails feature mostly flat sections, especially along the beautiful Lake Winnisquam shoreline. The park also has a popular crushed limestone fire road, which is very accessible. Other paths wind through serene wooded areas with gentle elevation changes, offering a classic New England forest experience.
Are dogs allowed on the trails in Ahern State Park?
Yes, Ahern State Park is very dog-friendly! You are welcome to bring your canine companions along to explore the trails and enjoy the lakeside environment with your family. Please remember to keep them leashed and clean up after them.
Are there any easy loop trails suitable for young children?
Absolutely! For a pleasant and easy loop, consider the Rusty Bedspring, Upper Jakes, and Yo Benson Loop. It's about 3.5 km (2.2 miles) and takes around 55 minutes, winding through lovely wooded areas. Another great option is the Fire road – Ahern State Park loop, which is even shorter at 2.0 km (1.3 miles) and follows the accessible crushed limestone fire road.
What are the best times of year to visit Ahern State Park for family hiking?
Ahern State Park is wonderful for family hiking throughout the warmer months, from spring through fall. Spring brings fresh greenery, while summer offers opportunities for swimming in Lake Winnisquam. Fall is particularly scenic with vibrant foliage. Even in winter, some trails are suitable for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing, though conditions should be checked.
What do other hikers enjoy most about family hiking in Ahern State Park?
The komoot community highly rates Ahern State Park, with an average score of 4.6 out of 5 stars. Reviewers often praise the park's beautiful lakeside views, the well-maintained and diverse trail network, and its peaceful, family-friendly atmosphere. The accessibility of the trails and the dog-friendly environment are also frequently highlighted.
Are there any longer, more challenging family hikes available?
If your family is up for a longer adventure, the WOW and Winni Trail is a moderate route spanning nearly 14 km (8.7 miles). It offers a more extensive exploration of the park's varied landscapes and is a great option for families with older children or those seeking a longer day out.
What kind of natural features or attractions can we expect to see?
Ahern State Park is defined by its stunning natural beauty. You'll enjoy extensive views of Lake Winnisquam, with opportunities for shoreline walking and even finding secluded sandy spots for swimming. The trails also lead through peaceful wooded areas, offering a chance to immerse yourselves in nature. The crushed limestone fire road provides accessible scenic views along the lake.
Is there parking available at Ahern State Park?
Yes, Ahern State Park provides ample parking for visitors, making access to the trailheads convenient for families. The park is designed to be easily accessible by car.
Are there any trails that offer a bit more elevation or different views?
For a trail with a bit more elevation and different perspectives, consider the Farm Vewe Hilltop Trail. While still classified as easy, it offers gentle climbs that lead to varied views through the park's wooded sections, providing a slightly different experience than the lakeside paths.
Can we find circular routes for family walks?
Yes, Ahern State Park features several excellent circular routes perfect for families. Besides the Rusty Bedspring, Upper Jakes, and Yo Benson Loop and the Fire road – Ahern State Park loop, you can also explore the Hamlin Trail loop, which offers a longer, easy circular walk through the park's diverse scenery.
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