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Stark Park
4.6 ★★★★★ 460 Google reviews · Running trail in Manchester, New Hampshire · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Not reported
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Posted hours
Confirmed from Stark Park'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.
30-acre park with grassy lawns, a gazebo & bronze statue of a celebrated Revolutionary War general.
What runners say about Stark Park
“Stark Park on a rolling great hill leads to a small trail system, well maintained with bridges and spots to take in the beauty along the river.”
“It was a nice afternoon and beautiful area but please don't be dumb enough to try pushing a 4 wheeled transfer wheel chair on the stark ramble trail at stark park.”
“Quiet when I visited and it is lovely place.”
This park is very big it sets on a thirty acre tract dedicated in 1893 along with derryfield park it was Manchester first park. It has a huge walking trail that is kept up very well. It has statues with history involved and you could sit on the grass and under big trees.
This is a very nice park to visit. Plenty of green space that is well maintained to catch some rays. Sidewalks/asphalt roadways that are good for walking. If you would prefer more of a "hike" experience, there are dirt trails with small bridges, benches to sit on and artwork to enjoy.
Gorgeous park. Feels safe and clean. Community gardens below, peaceful trees. There is magic in these little woods! Fun forest friends and gorgeous bird sounds. Trail loops around the bottom part of the park, and meanders up the hill to the monuments. A good walk! We saw a gorgeous hawk and enjoyed the peace and quiet.
A truly wonderful surprise today discovering this hidden gem in the heart of Manchester. Never knew it existed, always visited near by Livingston Park. Stark Park on a rolling great hill leads to a small trail system, well maintained with bridges and spots to take in the beauty along the river.
Trail conditions & character
“It was a nice afternoon and beautiful area but please don't be dumb enough to try pushing a 4 wheeled transfer wheel chair on the stark ramble trail at stark park.”
“Last week the conditions were perfect on the classic Nordic Ski trails accessible from this park.”
“Porta potties have been available when we've been there for the concert series, but I'm not sure of those are year round.”
“Lovely little park for short-med walks, good for leashed dogs too.”
“Quiet when I visited and it is lovely place.”
Plan your run at Stark Park
The practical stuff
- AccessPosted hours — posted hours below; park gates sometimes close earlier than the listing says
- 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, restrooms — 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.
- Websitemanchesternh.gov
- Social Facebook
Hours
| Monday | 8 am–8 pm |
| Tuesday | 8 am–8 pm |
| Wednesday | 8 am–8 pm |
| Thursday | 8 am–8 pm |
| Friday | 8 am–8 pm |
| Saturday | 8 am–8 pm |
| Sunday | 8 am–8 pm |
Running trails near Manchester
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Blodget Park
4 ★★★★☆ 55 reviews
Small, quiet respite featuring open green space, a nature trail & a brook for fishing.
Livingston Park
4.6 ★★★★★ 1,878 reviews
Park with a running track, baseball diamond, playground, swimming pool & boardwalk around a pond.
Arms Park
4.3 ★★★★☆ 583 reviews
Tree-lined riverside park along local heritage trail with a footpath, lighting & benches.
Derryfield Park
4.6 ★★★★★ 300 reviews
Field with picnic tables and a tennis court, plus slides, a baseball field and a playground.