Spoiler Alert: lions and tigers and elephants are NOT at Stonehouse Forest in Barrington, New Hampshire. Or at least that may be what the previous owner dreamed he would find when he pieced together 50 parcels of land to create his own private exotic game hunting reserve. However, apparently this “European investor” was not familiar with New Hampshire’s weather, or the lack of “exotic animals” in New England, and eventually sold the property as conservation land to the Southeast Land Trust (SELT). What you will find at Stonehouse is an 11.3 miles network of trails that go through forest, wetlands, vernal pools, to a pond, and a 150 foot high granite cliff with amazing views.
On the day we visited, we hiked the short but easy Ledges Loop Trail which connects to the Overlook Trail for beautiful views of the pond below. The trails are well marked, with signs at crossroads so there are plenty of options to extend your hike or make it a quick visit. However, what is becoming the theme of this summer’s hikes, there was once again horse waste along the trail and even waiting at the summit to greet us. So you may want to keep your dogs leashed to avoid a fragrant car ride afterwards.
Dogs are allowed off-leash under owner’s control. Owners must carry a leash, and aggressive dogs must be kept on-leash. Please pick up and carry out pet waste. Stay on the trails, and respect the private property that some of the trails cross, as well as the wildlife that call it home. The main trailhead parking for Stonehouse Pond can be found off of Franklin Pierce Highway (Route 9) on Stonehouse Pond Road in Barrington, NH. There is a smaller parking area for the Marison Trailhead along Franklin Pierce Highway as well, just look for the signs. For additional recommendations for hikes, scenic walks, and beaches, please visit our Dog Friendly Places reviews.
