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Running Trails
United States
New Hampshire
Grafton County

North Woodstock

The best running trails around North Woodstock

By Fede from komoot

·

Updated May 28, 2026

If you've ever tried to plan jogging around North Woodstock, you know how overwhelming the options can be. With so many trails winding through the White Mountains, it's tough to tell which routes are genuinely worth your time and effort, and which are just filler. That's where we come in. Our komoot community has mapped, run, and reviewed countless routes here, so we've done the legwork to bring you a curated shortlist of the very best. Consider this your shortcut to finding the perfect jog without the guesswork.

Jogging in North Woodstock is all about embracing the stunning natural landscape. You'll find everything from gentle forest paths along river valleys to challenging ascents up mountain slopes. The region is characterized by its extensive woodlands and varied elevation profiles, offering a diverse experience whether you're looking for an easy outing or a serious workout. Expect trails that follow brooks and wind through state forests, with the picturesque Pemigewasset River valley often in view. While many trails are accessible year-round, the summer months are particularly inviting, with opportunities to cool off in natural water features like those found at Cascade Park.

If you only do one route, make it the Lincoln Woods Trail. This 6.6 miles (10.7 km) moderate route is perfect for a first visit, offering continuous riverside views and a mostly flat, wide path that’s a joy to run. For those seeking a real challenge, the Beaver Brook Trail is a difficult 6.7 miles (10.7 km) path with a significant 3,027 feet (923 m) of elevation gain, rewarding your effort with incredible views as you climb. With more than 90 runners having already explored North Woodstock's varied terrain with komoot, you're in good company.

If you only do 3 of these routes

  1. 1

    Lincoln Woods Trail
  2. 2

    Beaver Brook Trail
  3. 3

    Franconia Brook Bridge – Franconia Falls loop from Lincoln Woods Trailhead Parking

Compare these routes at a glance

Trail

Distance

Elevation

Difficulty

Lincoln Woods Trail

10.7 km

100 m

Moderate

Beaver Brook Trail

10.7 km

920 m

Hard

Franconia Brook Bridge – Franconia Falls loop from Lincoln Woods Trailhead Parking

10.6 km

100 m

Moderate

Running loop from Lincoln

5.00 km

30 m

Easy

J. E. Henry Trail loop from Lincoln

7.86 km

80 m

Moderate

Fay State Forest loop from Lincoln

10.5 km

90 m

Moderate

J. E. Henry Trail loop from Hay Hill Road & Back Forty Road

11.1 km

160 m

Moderate

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1.

Lincoln Woods Trail

10.7km

01:19

100m

100m

The Lincoln Woods Trail offers a delightful jogging experience through the White Mountain National Forest, tracing an old railroad grade alongside the East Branch of the Pemigewasset River. You'll cross a charming suspension bridge at the start, then enjoy continuous riverside views and occasional mountain glimpses, including Mount Bond, as you head into the Pemigewasset Wilderness. The terrain is generally smooth and easy, making it a perfect moderate 6.6-mile (10.7 km) route with just 321 feet (98 metres) of elevation gain.

Planning your visit is straightforward, with a large parking lot, ranger station, and flush bathrooms at the trailhead. Remember that a $5 recreation fee or a White Mountain National Forest Yearly Parking Pass is required. The trail is popular year-round; in winter, it's still accessible due to packed snow, though microspikes are a good idea for the 1 hour and 18 minutes it takes to complete.

This trail is steeped in history, following the former East Branch & Lincoln Railroad, a logging line that operated until 1948. You might even spot remnants of old logging camps along the way. It also serves as a gateway to other scenic spots, most notably the beautiful Franconia Falls, located just a short detour off the main path, making it a great option for family-friendly jogging.

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2.

Beaver Brook Trail

10.7km

02:08

920m

920m

The Beaver Brook Trail offers a truly challenging experience for joggers, leading you through a relentless ascent to the Mount Moosilauke Summit. Expect varied terrain, from potentially rocky sections to steep climbs, all set within the rugged beauty of New Hampshire's mountains. The payoff for your effort is the expansive, panoramic views from the summit, making every step of the climb worthwhile.

This difficult route covers 6.7 miles (10.7 km) with a significant 3027 feet (923 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 2 hours and 8 minutes to complete. While specific access details are not provided, planning for an early start is always recommended for popular trails, and ensure you carry ample water for the strenuous climb. This trail is best suited for experienced joggers seeking a demanding physical test.

Located in Grafton County, New Hampshire, this Beaver Brook Trail stands out as a serious mountain challenge, distinct from shorter, more leisurely trails found elsewhere. Its primary draw is the direct route to the Mount Moosilauke Summit, a prominent peak known for its exposed, alpine-like conditions and far-reaching vistas. This trail is a prime example of the challenging and rewarding jogging opportunities available in the White Mountains region.

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3.

Franconia Brook Bridge – Franconia Falls loop from Lincoln Woods Trailhead Parking

10.6km

01:18

100m

100m

Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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5.

J. E. Henry Trail loop from Lincoln

7.86km

00:50

80m

70m

The J. E. Henry Trail loop from Lincoln is a fantastic option for a scenic and accessible jog, offering a peaceful escape along the East Branch of the Pemigewasset River. You will find yourself on a generally flat and wide path, following an old logging railroad bed through mixed forests, with the autumn bringing particularly stunning foliage. While mostly smooth, be aware that some sections might have mixed, slightly rocky terrain, especially as you get closer to Loon Mountain. This route is a low-effort, high-reward experience, perfect for enjoying nature without a strenuous climb.

Planning your visit to this popular running trail in Lincoln, New Hampshire, is straightforward. The trail is easily accessible and welcomes both families and leashed dogs, making it a versatile choice for many. You will find benches and interpretive signs along the way, providing interesting details about the area's logging and railroading past. The trail also connects to other local paths, such as the Riverfront Park Trail, giving you options to extend your outing if you desire a longer adventure.

This moderate 4.9-mile (7.9 km) jogging route, with a gentle 246 feet (75 metres) of elevation gain, can typically be completed in about 49 minutes. It is rated as easy, making it suitable for all fitness levels, including beginners looking for popular running trails in Lincoln New Hampshire. The J. E. Henry Trail is named after J.E. Henry, a significant figure in Lincoln's logging history, and offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical context.

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7.

J. E. Henry Trail loop from Hay Hill Road & Back Forty Road

11.1km

01:11

160m

160m

This J. E. Henry Trail loop from Hay Hill Road & Back Forty Road offers a delightful escape into nature, tracing the East Branch of the Pemigewasset River through peaceful mixed forests. The path is wide and flat, making it an easy-to-follow route with continuous riverside views and occasional glimpses of the surrounding mountains. It's a truly scenic experience, especially when the fall foliage is at its peak.

For planning your visit, you'll find parking readily available near the trailhead in Lincoln, including the South Peak Escape Route Lot. The trail is well-maintained and suitable for all skill levels, making it a great option for a morning jog, a family outing, or a leisurely dog walk. No permits are needed, and the trail is accessible throughout the year.

This moderate 6.9-mile (11.1 km) jogging loop, with a gentle 524 feet (160 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 1 hour and 11 minutes to complete. It's known for its low-effort, high-reward experience and its historical significance, with interpretive signs detailing the area's logging past. You can also link up with other local paths like the Riverfront Park Trail to extend your adventure.

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Tips from the Community

Alex
January 11, 2025, Franconia Brook Bridge

Keep your feet dry while crossing the scenic Franconia Brook before it joins with the East Branch Pemigewasset River. This is a great spot to stop for a photo or filter some water.

0

0

Mount Moosilauke is a popular peak and is the tenth highest in New Hampshire. There are great views from the top and as it is a popular route, there is a good chance you will meet others at the summit.

0

0

mtm05005
October 20, 2023, Franconia Falls

There are 3 waterfalls you can visit at Franconia Falls: Stairs Falls, Swiftwater Falls and Cloudland Falls. It is only a short detour off the Lincoln Woods Trail, so it is definitely worth the effort to visit.

0

0

Sue
August 5, 2023, J.E. Henry Trail

This is an excellent trail for a short hike for the family. It is an easy stretch along the East Branch Pemigewasset River, which connects to the Riverfront Park Trail or the South Peak Resort Trail System.

0

0

A short walk up Falling Waters Trail will bring you to three picturesque waterfalls: Stairs Falls, Swiftwater Falls and Cloudland Falls (the largest of the three).

1

0

Mount Moosilauke is the tenth highest mountain in New Hampshire. It is also the westernmost of the 48 highest peaks of the White Mountains.

1

0

Moosilauke is only clear a few days of the year. I arrived at the summit ~9:30AM. I suspect that it was clear by 10 or 10:30.

1

1

Frequently Asked Questions

How many running routes are available in North Woodstock?

North Woodstock offers a selection of 10 running routes on komoot, catering to various preferences and fitness levels. These include paths through extensive woodlands and along river valleys.

Are there easy running paths for beginners in North Woodstock?

Yes, North Woodstock has easy running paths suitable for beginners. For example, the Running loop from Lincoln is an easy 3.1-mile (5.0 km) trail with minimal elevation changes, perfect for a gentle jog through forested areas.

What are some options for long-distance running in North Woodstock?

For those seeking longer distances, routes like the Lincoln Woods Trail offer a substantial 6.6 miles (10.7 km) through forested areas with gentle elevation. The Beaver Brook Trail is also a similar distance at 6.7 miles (10.7 km), but presents a more challenging experience with significant elevation gain.

Are there family-friendly jogging routes in the area?

Many of the trails in North Woodstock, particularly those with gentle elevation changes and through forested paths, are suitable for families. The Running loop from Lincoln is an excellent choice, being an easy 3.1-mile (5.0 km) route that can be enjoyed by various age groups.

What kind of scenery can I expect on the running trails around North Woodstock?

The running trails in North Woodstock are characterized by extensive woodlands, river valleys, and varied elevation profiles. You'll find paths that follow brooks, wind through state forests, and offer views of the natural landscape. Some routes may also pass by notable natural monuments.

Are there any natural attractions or landmarks along the running routes?

While jogging, you might encounter natural attractions such as Flume Gorge or The Basin (Pemigewasset River), which are prominent natural monuments in the wider North Woodstock area. These offer scenic points of interest to explore.

What is the best time of year for running in North Woodstock?

North Woodstock offers running opportunities throughout the year, with each season providing a unique experience. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant foliage, while summer provides lush green scenery. Winter running is also possible, though some trails may require appropriate gear due to snow and ice.

Are there circular running routes available?

Yes, many of the running routes in North Woodstock are designed as loops, offering a convenient way to start and finish at the same point. The Running loop from Lincoln and the J. E. Henry Trail loop from Lincoln are examples of circular routes that allow you to explore the local scenery without retracing your steps.

What do other runners enjoy most about jogging in North Woodstock?

Runners frequently praise the diverse terrain, from gentle forest paths to more challenging ascents, and the natural setting provided by the extensive woodlands and river valleys. The variety of routes caters to different fitness levels, making it a popular destination for the komoot community.

Are there any moderate difficulty running trails?

Yes, North Woodstock features several moderate difficulty running trails. The J. E. Henry Trail loop from Lincoln, at 4.9 miles (7.9 km), and the Fay State Forest loop from Lincoln, at 5.1 miles (8.2 km), are both excellent moderate options with varied terrain.

Can I find less crowded running paths in North Woodstock?

While popular routes like the Lincoln Woods Trail can see more activity, North Woodstock's extensive network of trails, particularly those deeper within the state forests or with slightly higher difficulty, often provide a more secluded running experience. Exploring some of the lesser-known loops can lead to quieter paths.

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