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Henderson-Swasey Town Forest
4.5 ★★★★★ 165 Google reviews · Running trail in Exeter, New Hampshire · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Natural surface
- Loop distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Loop
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Posted hours
Confirmed from Henderson-Swasey Town Forest's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Hiking and biking forest featuring trails for all skill levels.
What runners say about Henderson-Swasey Town Forest
“Clean up after your pup, poop bag dispenser at Oaklands parking lot.”
“Beautiful trails, dog friendly, amazing scenery.”
“The parking lots may be packed but you'll rarely cross paths with anyone while in there because there are acres and acres of well groomed, well marked trails.”
Great trails!!!! Features rocks, bridges, streams, and more! So many trails to choose from!! Make sure you bring a map! All dogs MUST BE LEASHED! Clean up after your pup, poop bag dispenser at Oaklands parking lot. Skill levels vary from easy to mostly moderate! Trails are used for hiking and mountain biking
Fantastic hiking trail! It could be marked alot better! Even regulars who bike, run, hike could remark the trees with the trail color. We even observed fresh moose tracks.
A great hiking, walking, mountain biking and possibly a good cross country skiing system of trails! I didn't notice any mosquitoes or biting insects. Quite a few side trails. You may see a train go by at the parking area. Entrance is right next to the railroad bridge.
Love love love these trails! The parking lots may be packed but you'll rarely cross paths with anyone while in there because there are acres and acres of well groomed, well marked trails. Can't wait to see what winter brings ❄️
Trail conditions & character
“The parking lots may be packed but you'll rarely cross paths with anyone while in there because there are acres and acres of well groomed, well marked trails.”
“The large hand built wall is a marvel, and the variety of views in the woods and the extent if the trails is fabulous.”
“Fort rock is a great place to mountain bike, hike, or just take a walk with your dog.”
“Also known as Ft Rock for mountain biking, these trails vary from easy to technical black trails.”
“The parking lots may be packed but you'll rarely cross paths with anyone while in there because there are acres and acres of well groomed, well marked trails.”
“Baby strollers that are designed for trails I would recommend.”
Plan your run at Henderson-Swasey Town Forest
The practical stuff
- AccessPosted hours — posted hours below; park gates sometimes close earlier than the listing says
- SurfaceNatural surface — easiest on the joints and the most fun, but expect roots, rocks and mud after rain
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
- Websiteexeternh.gov
- Phone+1 603-778-0591
Hours
| Monday | 6 am–9:30 pm |
| Tuesday | 6 am–9:30 pm |
| Wednesday | 6 am–9:30 pm |
| Thursday | 6 am–9:30 pm |
| Friday | 6 am–9:30 pm |
| Saturday | 6 am–9:30 pm |
| Sunday | 6 am–9:30 pm |
Running trails near Exeter
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Oaklands Town Forest
4.5 ★★★★★ 79 reviews
Wooded area featuring miles of trails that are popular for hiking and mountain biking.
Oaklands Tunnel Trail
3.9 ★★★★☆ 15 reviews
Swasey Parkway
4.7 ★★★★★ 438 reviews
Picturesque space to picnic, walk, jog or take in the river views, with benches and a dog-free policy.
