The best walks and hikes around Dover

The Dover Community Trail offers a delightful mix of urban and natural landscapes, perfect for a relaxed outing. You'll find yourself strolling along the Cochecho River, enjoying scenic views and the peaceful sounds of flowing water, with sections of packed earth and gravel underfoot. The route also features a unique educational element, the Voyage Mark II Solar System Exhibit, making your 2.2-mile (3.6 km) hike with just 18 feet (5 meters) of elevation gain an engaging experience.

Accessing the trail is simple, with convenient parking available at the Transportation Center and the Fisher Street Trailhead. This easy route is suitable for all ages and is dog-friendly, allowing leashed pets to join you. Expect to spend around 55 minutes completing the trail, making it an ideal choice for a short, accessible walk any time of day.

What truly sets this trail apart is its blend of history and science; it largely follows a former railroad bed and hosts the first New England installation of the Voyage Mark II Solar System Exhibit. This unique feature transforms a simple walk into an interactive journey through our solar system, making the Dover Community Trail a standout option among local trails for families and those seeking a bit more than just a scenic stroll.

The Willand Pond Trail offers a delightful, easy stroll around a scenic 66-acre pond, perfect for a quick escape into nature. This 1.2-mile (2.0 km) hiking route is mostly flat, with only 26 feet (8 metres) of elevation gain, taking about 30 minutes to complete. You'll follow a wide dirt path, enjoying tree-lined views and keeping an eye out for local wildlife like geese and herons, though be aware that some sections can get muddy.

This trail is incredibly family friendly and accessible, with parts suitable for strollers and wheelchairs. It's also a popular spot for other activities; you can bring your dog (on a leash), go fishing, or even enjoy cross-country skiing and ice skating in winter. Located conveniently between Dover and Somersworth, it's an easy destination for a casual outdoor adventure.

Historically, Willand Pond was a lively recreational hub with an arcade and dance halls, accessible by trolley. Today, it's transformed into a peaceful natural oasis, offering a quiet retreat from nearby busy highways. Along the path, you'll find picnic areas, fitness stations, and a low elements rope course, adding to its appeal as a community resource.

Embark on an easy hike along the Bellamy River Trail, a gentle 1.8 miles (2.9 km) route designed for a quick outdoor escape. You will experience minimal elevation gain, just 18 feet (6 metres), making it accessible for nearly everyone. This trail guides you through a varied landscape of mixed and deciduous forests, opening up to grassy paths and fields. As you follow the path, you will find yourself walking alongside the tranquil Bellamy River, its estuary, and the broader Little Bay. Expect to complete this pleasant journey in about 44 minutes, enjoying the natural surroundings.

The Bellamy River Trail is well-marked and open for foot traffic, ensuring an easy navigation experience for all visitors. You can bring your dog along, provided they are on a leash, though be aware of specific leash regulations in place from March 15 to July 15. These seasonal rules help protect the nesting wildlife in the area, so please plan your visit accordingly. This route is particularly suitable for families or anyone seeking a straightforward outdoor adventure without complex planning.

This trail offers a wonderful introduction to the Bellamy River Wildlife Management Area in Dover, New Hampshire. The diverse environment, encompassing forests, open fields, and riverfront, makes it a significant spot for birdwatching. Keep an eye out for various species, including herons, waterfowl, and shorebirds, especially during the spring and fall migration seasons. It is a great opportunity to connect with nature and observe local wildlife.

Embark on an easy hike along the Franklin-McElheny Preserve Trail, a gentle route that guides you through a natural, forested environment. You'll cover 1.8 miles (3.0 km) with a minimal elevation gain of just 49 feet (15 metres), making it a perfect choice for a quick outing. Expect to spend around 46 minutes exploring the preserve, where you might spot scenic riparian areas as the trail follows Garvin Brook. This accessible path offers a peaceful escape into nature, ideal for a relaxed walk.

Planning your visit to the Franklin-McElheny Preserve is straightforward. You'll find convenient parking available directly at the trailhead, ensuring an easy start to your adventure. This makes the preserve highly accessible for anyone looking for a peaceful, non-motorized activity. The trail is suitable for all ages and skill levels, offering an enjoyable experience without the need for extensive preparation. Consider visiting during daylight hours for the best experience.

Beyond its easy accessibility, the preserve actively manages its forests to sustain wildlife habitat and protect water quality in Garvin Brook and the Salmon Falls River. This focus means you're hiking through an area designed to enhance habitats for various species. Keep an eye out for local flora and fauna, as the preserve works to maintain a thriving ecosystem. It's a great spot to connect with nature and observe conservation efforts firsthand.