Oak Hill Tower Trail Loop
Oak Hill Tower Trail Loop
3.1
(17)
89
hikers
00:57
3.30km
90m
Hiking
Embark on an easy hike along the Oak Hill Tower Trail Loop, a pleasant 2.0-mile (3.3 km) route that takes you through a classic forested landscape. You will gain 293 feet (89 metres) in elevation over an estimated 57 minutes, making this a quick and accessible outdoor escape. The trail offers a delightful 'woods walk' experience, though some sections may be uneven due to natural rocks and roots. As you ascend, you can enjoy two distinct viewpoints; Vista Way provides a glimpse of Mount Kearsarge, while Swope Slope Vista opens up to more expansive vistas of Mount Kearsarge, Mount Cardigan, and Ragged Mountain. The highlight is the fire tower at the summit, where a climb to its landing offers limited 360-degree views stretching towards downtown Concord.
Planning your visit to the Oak Hill Tower Trail Loop is straightforward, as the trailhead is conveniently located just a short drive from downtown Concord. Parking is generally available on-site, making it easy to access for a spontaneous outing. This trail is suitable for hikers of all levels, and its relatively short duration means you can fit it into a busy day. Remember that the Oak Hill area is multi-use land, so you might encounter other outdoor enthusiasts like cross-country skiers or mountain bikers depending on the season. Always be mindful of shared trail etiquette.
The Oak Hill Tower Trail Loop stands out as an excellent option for a quick immersion in nature close to urban amenities. Its accessible location near downtown Concord makes it a popular choice for locals and visitors seeking a refreshing break. The presence of the fire tower adds a unique historical and recreational element, offering a tangible reward for your efforts. This trail provides a great opportunity to connect with the natural environment and enjoy scenic views without committing to a full-day excursion.
Last updated: April 23, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
753 m
Oak Hill Vista
Viewpoint
2.30 km
Oak Hill City Forest
Nature Reserve
3.30 km
End point
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
3.29 km
< 100 m
Surfaces
3.21 km
< 100 m
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Elevation
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Weather
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Thursday 7 May
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Max wind speed: 23.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
Parking is available at the Oak Hill City Forest trailhead, conveniently located just a short drive from downtown Concord, New Hampshire. The trail system is known for its accessibility, making it a popular choice for local walkers.
Yes, the Oak Hill Tower Trail Loop is generally considered easy to moderate and is suitable for a range of hikers, including beginners and families. It's described as a "pleasant forest walk through an easy-to-navigate network" with a gentle grade for much of the ascent. Some sections may have uneven terrain with rocks and roots, especially with leaves on the ground.
Yes, the Oak Hill trails are managed as multi-use land, welcoming hikers and their dogs. Please ensure your dog is kept on a leash and that you clean up after them to preserve the natural environment for everyone.
The Oak Hill Tower Trail Loop can be enjoyed year-round. Spring and summer offer lush greenery, while autumn provides beautiful fall foliage. Winter hiking is also possible, with the trails welcoming cross-country skiers. For the most expansive views from Swope Slope Vista, clear days are best.
No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to access the trails within Oak Hill City Forest. It's a publicly accessible multi-use area.
The trail primarily features a forested landscape, offering a classic "woods walk" experience. You'll find oak trees and might even spot chestnut saplings. While generally well-maintained, some sections can have uneven terrain with rocks and roots. The route offers two primary viewpoints: Vista Way and Swope Slope Vista, providing views of Mount Kearsarge, Mount Cardigan, and Ragged Mountain. The summit also features a fire tower, offering a limited 360-degree view over the treetops.
Yes, the route is part of a larger network of trails on Oak Hill. This specific loop also passes through sections of the Upper Trail, Tower Trail, Potter Ridge Trail, Ledges Pass Trail, and Lower Trail, allowing for customized routes and exploration.
This trail is notable for its accessible and pleasant forest walk, the presence of a rebuilt fire tower at the summit offering unique views, and several fine viewpoints of prominent New Hampshire mountains. Its proximity to downtown Concord also makes it a popular and convenient choice.
Yes, as you hike, you might notice historical elements such as networks of stone walls and stone cellars. These are remnants from the area's past as open pastureland in the 1800s, adding a touch of history to your outdoor experience.
Given its easy to moderate difficulty, comfortable hiking shoes with good ankle support are recommended due to potential uneven terrain. Bring water, especially on warmer days, and consider a map or GPS device as the trail system has many interconnected paths. Layers of clothing are always a good idea for changing weather conditions.