Not every trail in New Hampshire has to be a challenging route to a summit. Some of the best trails are the ones that allow us to move slowly and really appreciate all the things around us. While this boardwalk nature trail isn’t a total breeze, it does offer a chance to take your time and take in everything that New Hampshire has to offer.
The Great Bay National Wildlife Refuge was created in 1992. It can be found on the eastern shore the Great Bay in Newington.
Rich Lasker / alltrails.com
More than 1,000 acres have been dedicated to the preservation of migrator birds, as well as other native wildlife.
Dawn Limauro / alltrails.com
The area includes mud flats, salt and freshwater marshes, swamps, ponds, streams, woodlands and fields
Dawn Limauro / alltrails.com
There are two main trails to explore the area. The William Furber Ferry Way Trail is about and the Peverly Pond Trail, which is completely wheelchair accessible as it uses the boardwalk for its entirety.
By U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service - Northeast Region - https://www.flickr.com/photos/usfwsnortheast/4150314184/, Public Domain
Both are beautiful, but we love the accessibility of the Peverly Pond Trail. And it’s just under 0.5 miles. To access it, head to the left side of the visitor parking lot.
Stacy Mazur / alltrails.com
First you’ll walk through a forested area that then gives way to the Upper Peverly Pond.
Birding NH / trailfinder.info
Once you reach the pond you’ll find a small observation deck which allows for some time to really take in the view. Be sure to listen for the sounds of birds and the breeze through the trees.
Dibird50 / TripAdvisor
From here the trail heads left going along a stream and passing by a few vernal pools. Depending on the season these will have water or be dry. Either way, they’re a great way to appreciate New Hampshire’s ecology.
Dibird50 / TripAdvisor
From here the trail ends back at the parking lot.
Conley Pendergraft / alltrails.com
Viewing of wildlife here changing seasonally. In the summer you might see a White-tailed deer and their fawns on the Ferry Way Trail. Turkeys and lots of different birds including the goldfinch, ruby-throated hummingbird, Baltimore oriole, and yellow warbler can be seen during the summer as well.
Conley Pendergraft / alltrails.com
In addition to incredible changing foliage, fall brings migratory waterfowl, beavers and porcupines.
Dibird50 / TripAdvisor In the winter you might see Bald Eagles as well as deer and turkey. The Spring brings migratory ducks, geese, and songbirds, making this the ideal time for birding.
Whenever you choose to visit you’re in for a treat. The boardwalk is a nice way to take your time and the views are simply lovely.
Kaysa Kalback / alltrails.com
Great Bay National Wildlife Refuge is open from sunrise to sunset all year. Pets are not allowed and visitors must stick to the maintained paths in the park. Please remember to carry out everything you bring in. For more information check out the official website here. Address: 28 Arboretum Drive, Newington, NH 03801-7857.
Rich Lasker / alltrails.com
Dawn Limauro / alltrails.com
By U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service - Northeast Region - https://www.flickr.com/photos/usfwsnortheast/4150314184/, Public Domain
Stacy Mazur / alltrails.com
Birding NH / trailfinder.info
Dibird50 / TripAdvisor
Conley Pendergraft / alltrails.com
In the winter you might see Bald Eagles as well as deer and turkey. The Spring brings migratory ducks, geese, and songbirds, making this the ideal time for birding.
Kaysa Kalback / alltrails.com
Another easy hike in New Hampshire is the White Blaze Trail on Pitcher Mountain. Learn all about it here.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
Address: 28 Arboretum Dr, Newington, NH 03801, USA
