The best walks and hikes in Bowditch-Runnels State Forest
4.8
(36)
364
hikers
24
hikes
If you've ever tried to plan hiking in Bowditch-Runnels State Forest, you know how quickly the options can feel overwhelming. With so many trails winding through this beautiful New Hampshire landscape, it's tough to tell which routes are genuinely worth your time and effort, and which are just filler. We get it – you want the good stuff, the trails that deliver on views and experience without the guesswork.
That's where komoot comes in. Our community has explored, mapped, and reviewed countless routes here, allowing us to cut through the noise. This guide is your curated shortcut, a hand-picked selection of the best hikes in Bowditch-Runnels State Forest that we know you'll love, saving you from endless research and ensuring every step is rewarding.
Bowditch-Runnels State Forest is defined by its dense woodlands, clear ponds, and flowing streams, offering a true escape into nature. The terrain is varied, with forested paths that feature moderate elevation changes, leading to impressive mountain viewpoints. You'll find everything from gentle strolls to more demanding ascents towards peaks like Bald Mountain and Mount Chocorua. While beautiful year-round, the forest truly shines with stunning foliage, especially during the fall.
If you only do one hike, we'd start with the Bald Mountain loop from Bowditch-Runnells State Forest. At 3.5 miles (5.7 km) with a steady climb, it offers a fantastic payoff for a moderate effort. For those seeking a bigger challenge and significant elevation gain, the Mount Chocorua via Piper and Liberty Trail Loop is a top favorite, covering 8.0 miles (12.9 km) through the scenic Mount Chocorua area. Ready to explore? More than 300 hikers have already used komoot to discover the best of Bowditch-Runnels State Forest.
Last updated: June 1, 2026
5.0
(1)
7
hikers
5.68km
02:16
420m
420m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily walkable paths.
12
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily walkable paths.
2
hikers
2.15km
00:50
250m
0m
The Nickerson Ledge via Piper Trail offers a fantastic, relatively quick escape into the White Mountains, delivering impressive views for an easy 1.3-mile (2.2 km) hike. You'll traverse varied forests and enjoy brook scenery before reaching the open ledges and granite slabs of Nickerson Ledge. From here, you're rewarded with consistent vistas of Mount Chocorua, Bald Mountain, and the Ossipee Range, all for about 814 feet (248 metres) of elevation gain and roughly 50 minutes of hiking.
To access this route, you'll typically start from the Piper Trail, which is often reached via a parking lot off Route 16. While the climb to Nickerson Ledge itself is described as rather steep for a short section, the overall trail is considered easy. It's a great option if you're looking for a rewarding experience without the commitment of a longer, more strenuous hike.
This trail is part of a larger network that can lead to Mount Chocorua, but Nickerson Ledge serves as a worthy destination in its own right. The consistent ridgeline hiking and panoramic views from the ledges are a standout feature, making it a popular choice for those seeking scenic overlooks in the region. It's a good way to experience the beauty of the area without tackling the full difficulty of the longer routes.
4.6
(18)
94
hikers
12.9km
04:38
780m
780m
The Mount Chocorua via Piper and Liberty Trail Loop offers a classic White Mountains adventure, leading you through varied forests to an iconic, bare rocky summit. You will experience everything from moderate woodland paths to steep sections with stone steps and a legitimate rock scramble near the top, all while enjoying panoramic 360-degree views from the Mount Chocorua Summit. This moderate 8.0-mile (12.9 km) hiking route, with 2554 feet (778 metres) of elevation gain, is a fantastic way to earn those spectacular vistas in about 4 hours and 37 minutes.
Planning your visit means arriving early, especially in summer, as this is a popular route and parking lots can fill up quickly. Be prepared for exposed ledgy sections that can be slippery when wet or icy, and remember that the summit is exposed to lightning during storms. The loop option provides diverse scenery and terrain, making it a highly rewarding day out for well-prepared hikers.
This trail is notable for its distinctive, rocky Mount Chocorua Summit, often cited as one of the most photographed mountains in the world. You will also pass the historic Jim Liberty Cabin, a unique shelter built in 1934, just below the summit cone. The Liberty Trail itself has historical significance, originating as an old bridle path, and offers a chance to spot wildlife like moose, particularly in late autumn.
5.0
(3)
30
hikers
9.47km
03:23
560m
560m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily walkable paths.
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Tips from the Community
This cabin ist located on the site of the Peak House, a three-story hotel built in 1891 and destroyed by a storm in 1915.
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Along this section of the Piper Trail leading to the summit, you'll reach the mountain saddle between the Three Sisters and Mount Chocorua. The well-marked path crosses smooth granite rocks with ease, offering stunning views that stretch southward and northeast across the White Mountains.
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At the mountain saddle between the 'Three Sisters' and 'Mount Chocurua', follow the 'Piper Trail' up to the summit. The marked route leads over bare granite rocks without any difficulties. The fantastic view extends to the south and northeast over the 'White Mountains'.
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Mount Chocorua is named after the Sokosis chief Chocorua, who lived in the early 18th century. The 1,064 m high Mount Chocorua is one of the most frequently climbed mountains in the US state of New Hampshire. The Appalachian Mountain Club notes that Mount Chocorua is one of the most photographed mountains in the world. https://www.chocorualake.org/hike-chocorua The striking mountain is the easternmost peak of the Sandwich Range and lies at the southern end of the White Mountains. The rocky peak is the result of a series of forest fires between the early 19th and 20th centuries. From its summit there are excellent views of the surrounding mountains and forests. The mountain is part of the almost 25 sq. km. large protected area ‘Mount Chocorua Scenic Area‘, which was created in 1986 as part of the ‘White Mountain Forest Plan‘. https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/stelprdb5364479.pdf
2
0
Mount Chocorua is a 3,490-foot summit in New Hampshire and is one of the most popular peaks in the whole state. The most popular approach involves climbing over 2,000 feet, so it's a pretty tough run, but the terrain isn't terrible, so the downhill back to the car is a rush.
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You are standing at the top of Chocorua Mountain. Its easily identifiable summit is famous for its beauty but also for its legend: It takes its name from a short story by the author Lydia Maria Child which tells the legend of an Indian chief named Chocorua. In the fiction, Chocorua dies at the top of this mountain after cursing the white settlers responsible for the destruction of its culture and its people. Is it from a true story or completely fictionalized? No one really knows. This legend is now part of New Hampshire history and is featured on a state historical marker (number 31), along Route 16 in Tamworth.
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Near the summit of Mount Chocorua, the views are becoming more and more stunning.
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Shortly before reaching Mount Chocorua, you have magnificent views of forests, valleys and lakes. It is a good place to take a break and admire the scenery.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are dogs allowed in Bowditch-Runnels State Forest?
Yes, dogs are generally permitted in New Hampshire State Forests, but they must be kept on a leash and under your control at all times. It's also important to clean up after your pet to help preserve the natural environment for everyone.
Is Bowditch-Runnels State Forest good for beginners or family hikes?
The forest offers a range of trails, but many are rustic and less developed, which might be challenging for absolute beginners. While there are 3 easier trails, most of the 19 routes in the area are rated as moderate. For a more manageable family outing, consider trails around Chocorua Lake before attempting more strenuous climbs.
What are the parking options for hiking in the area?
Parking is available at various trailheads, particularly for popular routes around Mount Chocorua and Chocorua Lake. For example, trailheads for the Piper Trail and routes starting near the lake have designated parking areas. These can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and during peak fall foliage season, so arriving early is recommended.
How many hiking trails are in Bowditch-Runnels State Forest?
There are over 15 designated hiking routes in and around Bowditch-Runnels State Forest. These range from easier walks to challenging mountain ascents, with the majority being moderately difficult hikes through the region's dense woodlands.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails here?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars. Hikers often praise the sense of solitude on the less-trafficked paths and the stunning natural scenery, including the dense forests, clear ponds, and rewarding views from summits like Mount Chocorua.
What is the best time of year to hike in Bowditch-Runnels State Forest?
Late spring, summer, and early fall are ideal for hiking. The forest is particularly famous for its spectacular foliage in autumn, making it a prime destination for fall hikes. Winter hiking is possible for experienced and properly equipped individuals, but be prepared for snow, ice, and cold conditions.
Are there any challenging hikes in the forest?
Yes, for those seeking a challenge, the area offers difficult ascents. A great example is the Mount Chocorua Summit – Mount Chocorua Summit loop from Lovejoy Marsh Wildlife Sanctuary. This 8.7-mile (14 km) route involves a significant elevation gain of over 800 meters and is best suited for experienced hikers.
Can I find a good viewpoint without a strenuous climb?
Yes, you can find rewarding views on moderately difficult trails. The Good lookout – Mount Chocorua Summit loop from Lovejoy Marsh Wildlife Sanctuary is a 7.9-mile (12.7 km) hike that leads to a scenic viewpoint without requiring you to go all the way to the main summit, offering a great payoff for the effort.
What kind of terrain should I expect on the trails?
The trails are characteristic of New Hampshire's White Mountains region. Expect to encounter forested paths with dirt, rocks, and tree roots. Many routes involve moderate to significant elevation changes. The landscape is defined by its dense woodlands, streams, and the rocky, open summits of peaks like Mount Chocorua.
Where can I find an official trail map?
Bowditch-Runnels is a largely undeveloped state forest, so detailed official maps can be scarce. Using a GPS app like komoot is highly recommended for navigation. For trails entering the adjacent White Mountain National Forest, maps are often available at ranger stations and visitor centers in the region.
What wildlife might I see in the forest?
The forest is a rich natural sanctuary. While hiking, you might spot white-tailed deer, moose, black bears, and various smaller mammals like squirrels and chipmunks. It's also a great area for birdwatching, with a diverse population of woodland birds. Always observe wildlife from a safe and respectful distance.
Most popular routes in Bowditch-Runnels State Forest
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