Save
You must be signed in to save park lists.
Your Park Lists
add New List
Add Photo
You must be signed in to add photos.
state route ranger badge
New Hampshire
5

New Hampshire State Parks

responsive menu icon
USA Parks
New Hampshire
Merrimack Valley Region
Contoocook State Forest
Afternoon Hike © stateparks.com
Spring Hike © stateparks.com
Search
Availability
Calendars
Availability Search
CONTOOCOOK STATE FOREST
CONTOOCOOK STATE FOREST
Contoocook State Forest is a peaceful and pristine natural oasis characterized by its dense forests, enchanting trails, and the tranquil Contoocook River that flows through its heart. This vast expanse of woodland offers breathtaking landscapes, from towering pines to vibrant foliage in the fall, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Whether one seeks to hike through winding paths, enjoy a picnic by the river, or indulge in birdwatching, the Contoocook State Forest provides an immersive experience that reconnects individuals with the tranquility of nature.
History of the Area
1. Native American Presence: Prior to European settlement, the region where Contoocook State Forest now stands was inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Abenaki people. These tribes utilized the land for hunting, fishing, and gathering.

2. Colonial Era: The area around Contoocook State Forest was first settled in the early 18th century by European colonists. The Contoocook River in the region provided an essential waterway for transportation and trade.

3. Logging and Agricultural Activities: In the 19th and early 20th centuries, the land within the state forest was extensively logged for its timber. The Contoocook River was used to transport logs downstream to mills. Additionally, the fertile soil in the area supported agricultural activities like farming and grazing.

4. Acquisition as Forest Reserve: In the early 20th century, the State of New Hampshire recognized the need for forest conservation and acquired land in the Contoocook region as a forest reserve. This marked the beginning of what would later become Contoocook State Forest.

5. Expansion and Development: Over the years, additional land has been acquired to expand the state forest's size and protect its natural resources. In 1935, the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) implemented various conservation projects, such as building trails and recreational facilities, within the forest.

6. Recreational Uses: Today, Contoocook State Forest offers various recreational opportunities, including hiking, biking, camping, hunting, and wildlife viewing. The forest's diverse ecosystems, featuring forests, wetlands, and the Contoocook River, attract outdoor enthusiasts throughout the year.
Nearby Vacation Rentals
Search for a vacation rental



Trails
1. Contoocook River Trail: This is a 3-mile trail that follows the banks of the beautiful Contoocook river, offering stunning views and opportunities for bird watching.

2. Pine Hill Loop: A moderate difficulty level loop trail stretching over 4 miles through dense woodlands with several steep inclines and declines.

3. Blueberry Mountain Pathway: An easy to navigate pathway spanning about two miles across lush green fields filled with wild blueberries during summer months.

4. Bear Brook Overlook Track: Approximately five mile long track leading up to an overlook point providing panoramic views of surrounding landscapes including Bear Brook watershed area.

5. Hemlock Ridge Route: About six-miles in length, this route takes hikers along ridges covered by hemlock trees; it's known for its tranquility as well as occasional sightings of deer or other wildlife species.

6. Oak Knoll Waypoint: It's a short but challenging one-mile hike taking you uphill towards Oak knoll viewpoint which offers breathtaking vistas especially at sunrise or sunset times.

7. Birchwood Bypass: Around three-and-a-half mile bypass meandering through birch tree groves where visitors can enjoy autumn foliage colors when season permits.

8. Fern Gully Footpath: Two-mile footpath winding around fern-filled gullies making it ideal choice if looking forward exploring forest undergrowth flora diversity.

9. Moose Meadow March: Five Mile march passing alongside moose frequented meadows hence increasing chances spotting these majestic creatures from safe distance.

10. Spruce Summit Stroll: One-point-five stroll ending atop spruce-covered summit giving opportunity witness far-reaching scenic beauty encompassing entire state forest region .

11. Maple Leaf Lane: Four-Mile lane named after maple trees lining both sides path turning into vibrant color spectacle each fall season .

12. Wildflower Walkabout: Three-kilometer walkabout designed for nature lovers to enjoy blooming wildflowers during spring and early summer months.

13. Riverbend Ramble: A 2-mile trail that meanders along the river, offering serene views of water bodies and opportunities for fishing.

14. Cedar Circle: This is a short half mile loop ideal for families with young children or those seeking an easy walk through cedar groves.

15. Hawk Hill Hike: Three-Mile hike leading up Hawk hill known as birdwatcher's paradise due its frequent hawk sightings especially during migration seasons.

Visitor Comments, Memories and Reviews
write a review
Share On

Area Campgrounds
Cold Springs Camp Resort
62 Barnard Hill Road
Weare, NH
603-529-2528
Friendly Beaver Campground
Old Coach Road
New Boston, NH
603-487-5570
Sandy Beach RV Resort
677 Clement Hill Road
Contoocook, NH
603-746-3591
Sandy Beach Campground
677 Clement Hill Road
Hopkinton, NH
603-746-3591
Keyser Pond Campground
1739 Old Concord Road
Henniker, NH
603-428-7741
Spacious Skies French Pond
479 Old W Hopkinton Road
Henniker, NH
603-995-4133
Area Fishing Related Businesses
Dudley Brook Fly Co
47 Dudley Brook Rd
Weare, NH
(603) 529-1129
Bear Hill Motel & Rentals
85 Contoocook Falls Rd
Hillsborough, NH
(603) 464-3444
Morse Sporting Goods
85 Contoocook Falls Rd
Hillsborough, NH
(603) 464-3444

Directions
1. Start by heading north on I:93 N.
2. Take exit 13 towards Concord onto US:3 N/Manchester St.
3. Continue straight onto Manchester St., then turn left onto Main St./NH Route 132 S.
4. Follow NH Route 132 S for approximately 6 miles until you reach the town of Hopkinton.
5. In Hopkinton, take a slight right onto Maple Street/NH Route 127 W and continue for about half a mile.

state route ranger badge
New Hampshire
5

New Hampshire State Parks

X