Haselton Farm Trail

The Haselton Farm Trail is located within Benson Park in Hudson, New Hampshire. You can find parking available at the park, often near the dog park, which is a common starting point for the trail.

Generally, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to access Benson Park or hike its trails, including the Haselton Farm Trail. However, it's always a good idea to check the official hudsonnh.gov website for any updated regulations or special event information before your visit.

Yes, the trail is dog-friendly, making it a great option for hiking with your canine companion. Please ensure your dog is kept on a leash and that you clean up after them to maintain the park's cleanliness for all visitors.

The Haselton Farm Trail offers enjoyable hiking throughout much of the year. Spring brings wildflowers, summer provides lush greenery, and fall showcases beautiful colors. Wildlife viewing is possible year-round, but fall is particularly scenic with its vibrant foliage.

The trail offers a diverse terrain experience. You'll encounter dirt paths, sections alongside Central Street, and areas winding along natural features like Bass Pond and Otter Pond. There are also paved pathways, small footbridges, a rope-railing bridge, and some sections with uneven ground, roots, and rocks. Expect gentle grades with a few brief ascents and descents.

Yes, the trail is generally rated as easy to intermediate, making it suitable for beginners and families with children. It features gentle grades and a manageable length. While mostly flat, there are some sections with uneven terrain and small hills, so appropriate footwear is recommended.

The trail is notable for its location within Benson Park, formerly Benson's Wild Animal Farm. As you hike, you can discover remnants of the old animal park, such as the Gorilla House, Old Woman's Shoe, and Elephant Barn. There's also a wildlife blind located approximately 1.2 miles into the trail, offering opportunities for observation.

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Acorn Trail, Moose Pond Trail, and other parts of the Haselton Farm Trail itself, allowing for customized hiking experiences by combining different paths.

Benson Park is rich in both forest and wetland habitats, providing opportunities for wildlife viewing. Hikers may observe signs of fox, fisher, coyote, raccoon, and weasel. Birding is also a popular activity along the trail.

The Komoot route for the Haselton Farm Trail is designed as a loop, allowing you to experience the diverse scenery without retracing your steps. However, the park's interconnected trails also offer flexibility for creating shorter out-and-back sections or extended routes.

Yes, the trail winds along natural features like Bass Pond and Otter Pond, offering scenic views over the water. The path around the perimeter of the park is also highlighted as particularly beautiful, providing a blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue from the former animal farm.