The best running trails in Carroll County
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Jogging in Carroll County offers diverse terrain across its rolling hills, extensive parklands, and varied trail networks. The region features lush forests, scenic waterways, and open meadows, providing a range of environments for running. These natural features contribute to a landscape that supports both gentle and challenging running experiences.
Best jogging routes in Carroll County
- The most popular jogging route is Faraway Mountain via High Ridge Trail — Carroll County, a 9.7 miles (15.7 km) difficult trail that takes…
Last updated: April 24, 2026
19
runners
8.19km
01:28
610m
610m
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…
11
runners
14.9km
02:30
970m
970m
The Baldface Circle Trail offers a challenging jogging experience, covering 9.2 miles (14.9 km) with a significant elevation gain of 3174 feet (967 metres). This difficult route, estimated to take…
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9
runners
5.28km
00:55
390m
390m
Prepare for a challenging jogging experience on the Red Hill and Cabin Trail Loop, a difficult route spanning 3.3 miles (5.3 km). You will ascend a significant 1274 feet (388…
7
runners
7.16km
00:57
380m
380m
Prepare for a challenging jogging experience on Hedgehog Mountain via UNH Trail, a difficult route spanning 4.4 miles (7.2 km) with a significant elevation gain of 1243 feet (379 metres).…
7
runners
11.1km
01:26
300m
300m
Lace up for a moderate jogging experience on the Turtleback Mountain Trail, a 6.9 miles (11.1 km) route that winds through the scenic Castle in the Clouds Conservation Area. You…
7
runners
5.20km
00:42
270m
270m
Get ready for a moderate jogging experience on the Boulder Loop Trail, covering 3.2 miles (5.2 km) with an elevation gain of 893 feet (272 metres). You can expect to…
6
runners
7.64km
01:08
420m
420m
If you are looking for a difficult jogging challenge, the Arethusa Falls and Frankenstein Cliff Loop offers a rewarding experience. This route covers 4.7 miles (7.6 km) with a significant…
5
runners
7.52km
01:20
390m
390m
The Mount Roberts Trail presents a difficult jogging challenge, spanning 4.7 miles (7.5 km) with a substantial 1270 feet (387 metres) of elevation gain. You can expect to spend around…
5
runners
5.22km
00:38
210m
210m
Embark on the Champney Falls Trail for a moderate jogging experience through the White Mountain National Forest. This 3.2-mile (5.2 km) route guides you along an old logging road, tracing…
5
runners
7.11km
01:21
620m
620m
Mount Crawford via Davis Path offers a challenging jogging experience, taking you through varied terrain to panoramic summit views. You start with a gentle incline, then climb steadily through the…
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Popular around Carroll County
Running Trails in Crawford Notch State Park
Running Trails around Center Sandwich
Running Trails in Hemenway State Forest
Running Trails around Suissevale
Running Trails around Bartlett
Running Trails around Melvin Village
Running Trails around North Conway
Running Trails around Wolfeboro
Running Trails around Conway
Running Trails around Lake Winnipesaukee
Other adventures in Carroll County
Tips from the Community
Wonderful view. And if you're lucky, you might even get to go all the way to the top, to the fire department's lookout.
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The Red Hill Tower was built in 1927 by the state of New Hampshire to replace the lookout tower on Mount Israel. The original 8.2-meter-tall metal tower, with a 3 x 3-meter wooden cabin, was raised to 16.8 meters in 1972 and equipped with a visitor viewing platform. After being closed by the state in 1981, the tower is now operated by the Moultonborough Fire Department on land owned by the Lakes Region Conservation Trust and is the only remaining operating lookout tower in New Hampshire not owned by the state. http://nhlr.org/lookouts/us/nh/red-hill-tower/
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To get to the 'Champney Falls', take a detour from the direct summit path to 'Mount Chocorua' and follow the 'Champney Brook' up the valley. The falls are divided into several cascades and torrents and carry large amounts of water. The falls are named after Benjamin Champney, the pioneer of the White Mountain artists (1817-1907). https://www.newenglandwaterfalls.com/nh-champneyfalls.html https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/stelprdb5364479.pdf
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The 'Coliseum Falls' are located below the 'Bemis Brook Falls' on the trail of the same name, a less frequented alternative to the 'Arethusa Falls'. The water falls down a low granite step and flows over a long, flat granite slab in the valley floor down into the 'Fawn Pool'. In dry times you can walk from the waterfall to the pool on the granite slab. https://www.newenglandwaterfalls.com/nh-arethusafalls.html
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The 'Bemis Brook Falls' are located below the 'Arethusa Falls' and can be reached on the 'Bemis Brook Waterfalls Trail'. This alternative route to the 'Arethusa Falls' runs along the valley floor and climbs steeply up to the main route at the lower waterfall. Only a few hikers visit the smaller waterfall, which falls over four steps of granite rock. https://www.newenglandwaterfalls.com/nh-arethusafalls.html
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Arethusa Falls on Bemis Brook are considered the highest single-stage waterfall accessible by hiking trail in New England. The hike to Arethusa Falls on the trail of the same name is one of the most popular day hikes in White Mountain National Forest. There is a large parking lot at the trailhead on Crawford Notch Road - US Route 302; park admission costs $5 per vehicle. https://www.newenglandwaterfalls.com/nh-arethusafalls.html
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Along with Arethusa Falls, Coliseum Falls is a popular waterfall in the White Mountain National Forest. It is normally a busy spot, but it is worth a stop for the great looking falls.
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Bemis Falls is located between the Coliseum and Arethusa Falls. Although Bemis Fall is not quite as impressive as either of the two other more famous falls along this trail, it is still a very pretty spot to pause and take some photos; the falls flow down mossy stone through a verdant forest and are especially beautiful in the fall when the leaves are changing.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many running routes are available in Carroll County?
Komoot features over 100 running routes in Carroll County. These routes cater to various fitness levels, including 9 easy, 32 moderate, and 66 difficult trails, ensuring options for every runner.
What kind of terrain can I expect on jogging routes in Carroll County?
Carroll County offers a diverse landscape for runners. You'll find routes through rolling hills, lush forests, and along scenic waterways like Liberty Reservoir and Piney Run Park. The terrain varies from flat paved paths in local parks to more challenging hilly and wooded trails within areas like Patapsco Valley State Park and the Hashawha Environmental Center.
Are there any challenging running trails with significant elevation gain?
Yes, Carroll County is known for its rolling hills, providing excellent opportunities for challenging runs. Routes like Faraway Mountain via High Ridge Trail offer difficult ascents through wooded areas, perfect for those seeking a strenuous workout.
Can I find family-friendly jogging paths in Carroll County?
Absolutely. For an easier jog suitable for families, consider parks with paved trails such as Old Mill Park or the Westminster Community Pond Trail. The Hashawha Environmental Center also offers extensive nature trails through woodlands and meadows that can be enjoyed by various age groups.
Are there any scenic running routes with viewpoints or natural attractions?
Many routes in Carroll County offer scenic beauty. Patapsco Valley State Park (McKeldin Area) provides picturesque scenery along the Patapsco River. Areas around Liberty Reservoir and Piney Run Park feature trails with beautiful water views. For specific natural attractions, you might explore trails near Glen Ellis Falls or Bemis Falls, which are notable waterfalls in the broader region.
What do other runners say about the trails in Carroll County?
The running routes in Carroll County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Runners often praise the varied terrain, from quiet woodlands to scenic river courses, and appreciate the options available for different ability levels.
Are there any loop or circular running routes available?
Yes, many routes in Carroll County are designed as loops, offering a convenient way to start and finish at the same point. An example is the Red Hill loop, which takes you through rolling hills.
Are there any running trails suitable for beginners?
Beginners can find suitable options on the easier trails, of which there are 9 listed on komoot. Local parks with paved paths, such as Freedom Park with its two-mile trail, or sections of the Washington Road Community Trail, are excellent starting points for those new to running.
What are some good options for moderate-difficulty running routes?
For a moderate challenge, consider routes like the Turtleback Mountain Trail run. This 6.9-mile path winds through varied landscapes, offering a good workout without extreme difficulty. Komoot lists 32 moderate routes in the county.
Are there any long-distance running trails in Carroll County?
For longer runs, you can explore trails that connect different areas or offer extended loops. The Faraway Mountain via High Ridge Trail is a challenging option at 9.7 miles, providing a substantial distance for endurance runners.
Where can I find more information about trails in Carroll County?
For additional details on outdoor recreation and hiking trails in the area, you can visit the Carroll County Tourism website at carrollcountytourism.org. You can also find GIS maps of trails on the Carroll County government website at carrollcountymd.gov.
Most popular routes in Carroll County
Most popular attractions in Carroll County
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