Live Animal Exhibit Trail

Parking is available directly at the Squam Lakes Natural Science Center in Holderness, New Hampshire, where the trail is located. Follow signs for visitor parking upon arrival.

Yes, the Live Animal Exhibit Trail is part of the Squam Lakes Natural Science Center, which requires an admission fee for entry. You can find current admission rates and operating hours on their official website: nhnature.org.

No, pets are not permitted on the Live Animal Exhibit Trail or within the Squam Lakes Natural Science Center to ensure the safety and well-being of the exhibit animals and other visitors.

The trail is enjoyable throughout its operating season. However, visiting during July and August offers the added benefit of daily "Up Close to Animals" presentations held in an amphitheater along the trail, weather permitting. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery.

This trail is generally considered easy to intermediate. While mostly accessible, it does have some sections with loose gravel and an ADA recreational standard grade of 1 in 12, which might present a slight challenge for some.

The primary draw of this trail is the opportunity to see live, native New Hampshire animals in natural enclosures. You can expect to see animals such as black bears, mountain lions, raptors, river otters, bobcats, red foxes, white-tailed deer, and coyotes.

The trail is approximately three-quarters of a mile long and features primarily packed gravel paths. It meanders through diverse landscapes including open meadows, mature forests, and marsh boardwalks. You'll also encounter natural features like exposed granite outcrops and a man-made wetland.

The entire self-guided tour of the animal exhibit trail is estimated to take at least two and a half hours, allowing ample time to observe the animals and enjoy the educational exhibits.

While largely accessible, the trail does have some sections with loose gravel and an ADA recreational standard grade of 1 in 12. The Squam Lakes Natural Science Center is a Certified Sensory Inclusive facility and offers Sensory Bags for guests who may feel overwhelmed, aiming for an inclusive experience.

Yes, running is not permitted on the trail to ensure the safety of both visitors and the animals. Please stay on marked paths and respect the natural environment and animal enclosures.

Beyond the animal exhibits, the trail incorporates various educational elements. You'll find exhibits exploring water-related topics, geology, and the importance of wetlands. During July and August, daily "Up Close to Animals" presentations led by naturalists are also offered.