Hiking near Manchester: 187 trails

A half-day outing takes a little planning.

Think about the way back, the breaks and the parking.

Check access

Opening hours, parking and access conditions can change with the season.

Check the weather at the destination

Changing weather can make some trails harder.

Choose your route

Match the length and the level to your group and the time you have.

Through the seasons

Spring

Spring hiking around Manchester, New Hampshire typically begins in late April when snow melts from lower elevations, though trails may remain muddy and icy at higher altitudes through May.

This season offers excellent opportunities to explore nearby state parks and conservation areas as wildflowers begin to bloom and waterfalls run at their fullest. Pack waterproof boots and layers, as weather can be unpredictable with temperatures ranging from 40-70°F.

Summer

Summer provides ideal hiking conditions near Manchester with warm temperatures averaging 70-80°F and long daylight hours extending until 8 PM.

The White Mountains region, accessible within an hour's drive, offers excellent trail networks for day hikes and multi-day adventures. Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and insect repellent, as black flies and mosquitoes can be particularly active in June and early July.

Fall

Fall foliage season from late September through mid-October makes this the most popular time for hiking around Manchester, with spectacular displays of red, orange, and yellow leaves throughout New Hampshire's forests.

Temperatures are comfortable for hiking, typically ranging from 45-65°F, though weather can change quickly. Layer clothing and start hikes early, as popular trails and parking areas fill up quickly during peak foliage weekends.

Winter

Winter hiking near Manchester requires proper preparation with temperatures often dropping below 20°F and significant snowfall from December through March.

Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing become popular alternatives to traditional hiking, with many local parks and conservation areas maintaining winter trail systems. Essential gear includes microspikes or snowshoes, insulated layers, and headlamps due to shorter daylight hours ending around 4:30 PM.

Frequently asked questions

Where can I go hiking near Manchester?

The page lists 187 trails. The closest is Audubon Society (≈ 1 min drive from downtown), the farthest West Hill Dam (≈ 2 hr). Drive times are estimated as the crow flies.

How long does it take to drive to the trails near Manchester?

17 trails are within ≈ 30 min of driving, 44 within ≈ 1 hr, and all of them within ≈ 2 hr. These are estimates from downtown.

What are the most popular trails near Manchester?

Among the trails on this page, the most viewed on Let's Go Play Outside are Purgatory Chasm State Reservation, Putney Mountain and Fisherman's Walk.

How long are the trails near Manchester?

178 listings give a length, from 0.8 km (Chestnut Park at Cleveland Circle) to 200 km (Blue Hills Reservation). The other 9 do not say.

Are there easy hikes near Manchester?

Yes: among the trails on this page that give a level, 133 easy, 37 moderate and 7 hard. The closest easy ones: Sheridan, Northeast Delta Dental Stadium and South Uncanoonuc.

Can I hike with my dog near Manchester?

31 listings say dogs are allowed and 8 say they are not. For the other 148, the rule is not confirmed: check the trail page before you go.

Hiking near Manchester

Hiking ideas near Manchester

Trails near Manchester