The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Cilley State Forest
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Family friendly hiking trails in Cilley State Forest, located in Concord, New Hampshire, offer accessible routes through varied landscapes. The region is characterized by gently rolling terrain, with paths winding through both forested areas and open parkland. Hikers will find a mix of wooded paths and open fields, with minimal elevation changes, making it suitable for a range of activity levels.
Best family friendly hiking trails in Cilley State Forest
- The most popular family friendly hiking route is White Farm loop, a 2.7 miles (4.3 km) trail that takes 1 hour 5 minutes to complete. This easy route passes through open fields and wooded sections, with glimpses of historic structures.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Rollins Park and Martin Park loop, an easy 3.7 miles (6.0 km) path. This route combines parkland and forested sections with negligible elevation changes, featuring green spaces and a stone bridge.
- Local hikers also love the White Park Loop, a 0.6 miles (1.0 km) trail leading through parkland, often completed in about 15 minutes.
- Hiking in Cilley State Forest is defined by diverse woodlands, open fields, and gentle hills. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy strolls to moderate hikes.
- The routes in Cilley State Forest are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.9 stars from 9 reviews. More than 90 hikers have used komoot to explore Cilley State Forest's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 6, 2026
3
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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.
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.
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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.
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
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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 Cilley State Forest?
Cilley State Forest offers a great selection of routes for families, with over 15 easy and 4 moderate hiking trails. In total, there are 19 routes suitable for various activity levels, ensuring everyone can find a path to enjoy.
What kind of terrain can we expect on family hikes in Cilley State Forest?
The trails in Cilley State Forest are characterized by gently rolling terrain with minimal elevation changes, making them ideal for families. You'll find a mix of wooded paths and open fields, providing varied scenery. Routes like the White Farm loop offer pleasant walks through both open and forested areas.
Are there any easy loop trails particularly good for families with young children?
Absolutely! For families with young children, the White Park Loop is an excellent choice. It's an easy 1 km path with very little elevation gain, perfect for a short stroll. Another great option is the White Farm loop, which is a 4.3 km easy loop through open and wooded areas.
What are some longer, but still family-friendly, options for a moderate hike?
For families looking for a bit more of a challenge, the Jerry Hill loop from Saint Pauls School is a moderate 7.5 km trail that leads through diverse woodlands and includes an ascent of Jerry Hill. Another moderate option is the Marjory Swope Park and Carter Hill Loop, which is nearly 9 km long and offers more varied terrain.
Are dogs allowed on the family-friendly trails in Cilley State Forest?
Yes, many trails in Cilley State Forest are dog-friendly, making it a great place to bring your furry family members. Always remember to keep your dog on a leash and clean up after them to ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors.
What is the best time of year to visit Cilley State Forest for family hikes?
Cilley State Forest is enjoyable throughout the year, but spring and fall offer particularly pleasant conditions for family hikes with milder temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer is also great, especially on shaded trails, but be mindful of warmer weather. Winter can be lovely for snowshoeing or winter walks, but some trails might be icy.
Are there any trails that pass by interesting landmarks or features?
Yes, some routes offer more than just natural beauty. The White Farm loop, for instance, passes by historic structures, adding a cultural element to your walk. Rollins Park, part of the Rollins Park and Martin Park loop, features a stone bridge and a gazebo.
Is there parking available at the trailheads for these family hikes?
Parking is generally available near the popular trailheads in and around Cilley State Forest. For example, Rollins Park, which is part of the Rollins Park and Martin Park loop, offers convenient parking options.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Cilley State Forest?
The komoot community highly rates the trails in Cilley State Forest, with an average score of 4.86 stars. Reviewers often praise the accessibility of the trails, the diverse yet manageable terrain, and the peaceful natural setting that makes it perfect for outdoor activities with family.
Are there any trails with panoramic views suitable for families?
While most trails feature woodlands and open fields, Winant Park, located nearby, offers a 1.0-mile trail with a 240-foot elevation gain that provides panoramic views of Concord and distant mountains. This could be a rewarding option for families looking for scenic vistas.
Are the trails in Cilley State Forest suitable for strollers?
Many of the trails in Cilley State Forest feature natural surfaces, which may not be ideal for all types of strollers. However, routes that incorporate paved sections or very well-maintained, flat paths, such as parts of the Rollins Park and Martin Park loop, might be more suitable for sturdy, all-terrain strollers. It's always best to check recent reviews or trail conditions if you plan to bring a stroller.
Most popular routes in Cilley State Forest
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