Explore the Great Outdoors: Easy Hikes and Scenic Walks In and Around Portsmouth, NH
The New Hampshire seacoast offers more than just ocean views and historic charm – it's also a gateway to a variety of easy hikes and scenic walks. Whether you're seeking a secluded dirt path or just looking for a nice stroll, there's something for everyone to enjoy. So strap on your hiking boots, (or your birdies) and let’s explore some short hikes and scenic walks just around the corner.
Casual Hikes
Great Bay National Wildlife Refuge
5.3 miles from The Tide House
Just a short drive from Portsmouth lies the Great Bay National Wildlife Refuge, a haven for nature lovers of all ages. With over 1,000 acres of protected land, this scenic refuge for birds and wildlife offers trails winding around mud flats, salt and freshwater marshes, swamps, ponds, streams, woodlands and fields. There are several family-friendly hiking trails to choose from. Take a leisurely stroll along the Peverly Pond Loop Trail (0.45 miles), where you can spot a variety of birds and other wildlife amidst lush wetlands. For a longer adventure, try the William Furber Trails (1.46 mi), which winds through forests and along the shoreline, providing stunning views of the Great Bay Estuary.
Odiorne Point State Park
4.6 miles from Tide House
For an easy hike that combines coastal beauty with fascinating history, look no further than Odiorne Point State Park. Located just a stone's throw from Portsmouth, this sprawling park offers miles of scenic trails that meander through salt marshes, rocky beaches, and dense woodlands. Families can explore the Seacoast Science Center's indoor & outdoor exhibits, learn about local marine life, and even spot seals basking in the sun along the shore. Enjoy time discovering sea creatures and sea glass along the rocky shorelines and tide pools. Bring young explorers to the newly renovated playground and pack a lunch because picnic tables line the waterfront path, allowing for some of the best views on the seacoast.
Mount Agamenticus
For those seeking a slightly more challenging adventure, head north to Mount Agamenticus in York, Maine, just a short drive from Portsmouth. This beautiful mountain that’s just 692 feet in elevation, offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. In fact, on a clear day, you can see Mount Washington to the northwest - which is 90 miles away. Families can choose from a variety of hiking trails ranging from easy to moderate, including the family-friendly Big A Loop Trail, (1 mile) which offers gradual slopes and scenic overlooks. Check out all of the trail options here. Be sure to pack a picnic and enjoy lunch at one of the mountain's summit picnic areas, where you can refuel while taking in the breathtaking views.
Scenic Walks
While Portsmouth is a historic city known for its bustling downtown and vibrant cultural scene, it's also a haven for nature lovers seeking serene walks amidst picturesque landscapes. Join us as we explore some of the best scenic walks around Portsmouth, perfect for soaking in the beauty of New England's coastal charm.
Prescott Park
1 mile from The Tide House
Located in the heart of downtown Portsmouth, Prescott Park offers a delightful blend of lush gardens, waterfront views, and historic charm. Take a leisurely stroll along the winding paths that meander through vibrant flower beds, towering shade trees, and beautiful water fountains. Pause to admire the stunning views of the Piscataqua River and the iconic Memorial Bridge, which connects the states of New Hampshire and Maine. You can choose to walk over the bridge and back, taking in the view of a residential marina as you head away from town, and then enjoy the most beautiful view of the city’s port, when you turn around to cross back over.
Strawbery Banke
1 mile from The Tide House
Across from Prescott Park is the historic plantation of Strawbery Banke which is a museum of a fully preserved 350 year old neighborhood. You can walk along the streets lining the old houses, or pay an admission fee, to enter the homes and really step back in time. In the winter, the center of Strawbery Banke opens up for ice skating under cafe lights. Several festivals and events take place here throughout the year as well.
Don't miss the chance to explore the nearby Four Tree Island, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the harbor and watch boats sail by.
Great Island Common
4.3 miles from the Tide House
For those craving sweeping ocean views and salty sea breezes, Great Island Common is the perfect destination. Located just a short drive from downtown Portsmouth in New Castle, NH, this scenic park boasts panoramic vistas of the Atlantic Ocean and the rugged coastline. Follow the paved walking paths that wind along the shoreline, offering unobstructed views of the ocean and nearby islands. Don't forget your camera – the sunsets here are simply spectacular, making it the ideal spot for capturing memorable moments with loved ones.
From waterfront parks to tranquil ponds, Portsmouth, NH, offers an array of scenic walks that showcase the natural beauty of New England's coastline. Whether you're seeking vibrant gardens, peaceful ponds, or sweeping ocean views, there's a scenic walk for every mood and occasion. So lace up your walking shoes, breathe in the fresh sea air, and embark on a journey of serenity and discovery in this charming city I call home.