While many visitors may assume that as the capital city of New Hampshire, Concord is a bustling metropolis, the city is actually a very welcoming and beautiful destination. Set along the banks of the famous Merrimack River, Concord boasts many expansive outdoor spaces, a lively arts scene and some of the best walking trails and bird watching destinations in the state. As the warm weather starts creeping in around April and May, it becomes the perfect time to get outside and explore all that the greater Concord area has to offer. Keep reading to learn more about a few of our favorite outdoor spaces near our Havenwood and Heritage Heights campuses.
7 Pleasant Bird and Nature Walks in Concord
1. Merrill Park Trail
This is an easy to moderate trail system that features a convenient “loop” design. If you’re looking for a relaxing and beautiful country walk, the Merrill Park trail is ideal for just about any time of day in the spring, summer and fall seasons. Stop along the trail to take a few snaps of the duck pond or take a break at the bridge to enjoy the view.
2. Kiwanis Waterfront Park
Situated along the banks of the Merrimack River, Kiwanis Waterfront Park is a great destination for Concord residents and visitors alike. In addition to several great picnic areas and a fun skateboarding park, you’ll find a number of easy trails along the water here as well. To get the most out of your walk and look for birds, be sure to bring a blanket and pack a few snacks for the journey and set up a riverside picnic!
3. Mast Yard State Forest Trails
Immerse yourself in the great outdoors with an afternoon at the Mast Yard State Forest Trails. Here you will find a relatively easy walking trail that has few changes in elevation but plenty to feast your eyes upon. Plan on spending about two hours total along the trail if you’d like to complete the entire five-mile loop. And don’t forget to bring your bird watching gear if you’d like to catch the spring wildlife staying busy this spring.
4. Silk Farm Sanctuary Trails
There are several trails to choose from at the Silk Farm Sanctuary. Ranging from a quick 15-minute jaunt to a longer 55-minute walk around Turkey Pond, this is one of the best destinations for bird watching in Concord. In fact, at least 60 breeding species have been recorded in the area, including the bald eagle and New Hampshire state bird, the purple finch. During your walk, you may expect to spot black-and-white warblers, tufted titmice, black-capped chickadees and more! Additionally, this is a great destination for those interested in the spring blooms, as they grow abundantly in this area.
5. Contoocook River Park Trails
Located near the northern Concord village of Penacook, this web of trails crisscross along an old railroad bed, offering spectacular views of the forest, wetlands and the Contoocook River. The trails are suitable for visitors of all ages and skill levels and are even pet-friendly. During your outdoor excursion, you can expect to discover Canada mayflower and wintergreen on the ground, hemlock trees, maples, birch and more.
6. Morono Park Trail
The Morono Park Trail is located near Beaver Meadow Golf Course, with easy access from Second Street. Here you’ll find a wide path that features an easy 1.4-mile hike nestled along the edge of the Merrimack River. Early spring is the best time to check out this fun trail loop, where you can expect to find herons, ducks, beavers and even otter in the river. Just keep in mind that as the warm weather progresses, the grass along the trail will continue to grow, making it more difficult to walk in late spring/early summer.
7. Broken Ground Trails
If you’re looking to set out on a great adventure, then the Broken Ground Trails are a great destination to explore over a few different outings. With more than six miles of trails, it’s easy to spend a full day on the path and realize that you’ll need to come back again to take in the sights once more. All trails here are pet-friendly and range in difficulty from easy to moderate. And make sure you're prepared to snap pics of the marshlands, herons, beaver ponds, ducks and more during your adventures.
Discover the Great Outdoors in Concord This Spring
At Havenwood Heritage Heights, we are proud to call Concord home. With so much to see and do in New Hampshire’s capital city, it’s also easy to see why our residents have chosen to enjoy their retirement years here. Interested in learning more about Concord and life at our continuing care retirement community? Please call us to speak with one of our friendly admissions specialists about our premier Independent Living, and schedule a tour of our campus today!
