Stratham Hill Park in Stratham, New Hampshire is very deceiving.  From the parking lot it looks like your average recreational area with designated sports fields and playground.  But follow the trail to the woods, and you’ll find a variety of dog friendly hiking trails to explore.  The trails range from wide smooth paths for easy walking through stonewall lined woods; to more diverse narrow paths that wind up hill through the town’s forrest, past ponds and meadows; to privately owned trails abutting the park.  Please note that the trails on the private properties are not maintained by the town, and hikers need to respect the owners’ privacy who allow them to be used.  There is also a former fire tower at the park, with views of area mountains including Mount Kearsarge and Mondanock.  However, we did not explore the observation tower, and stayed four paws on the trails.  A unique feature of this park is along the main trail there are workout stations with exercise suggestions.  This is a fun way to break up the usual routine of walking the dog.

Dogs are allowed to run off leash under voice control in the wooded areas.  But must be leashed when in the area of the athletic fields, playgrounds, and open lawn.  The park is located on Route 33, and there is a large parking lot.  Trail maps are available, and are helpful when exploring the many trail options.  For more information to plan your visit, Click Here.  For other dog friendly hiking areas, including the nearby Weeks Nature Trails, please visit our Dog Friendly Places page