It’s a daunting task to try out a new trail with a stroller. Questions fly through your head: Will it be accessible the entire way? Am I going to have to turn around? How long is this? Never fear! I’ve picked out five stroller friendly trails on the Seacoast. These outing will get you and your little one into nature on wheels.
Things to Know Before You Go
While these short trails are generally safe, easy, and accessible, it’s always good to be prepared. Check the weather before you go so you’re not caught in the rain, pack a bag with extra layers, sunscreen, bug repellent, snacks, and water (and maybe a diaper and wipes too). Lastly, tell someone your plan in case you get lost or need help.
A Note on Strollers
While I call these “stroller friendly” trails, please note that the description mentions that most are not paved paths. Be prepared with a stroller that can handle packed dirt as well as a few roots and rocks. While there are a ton of choices when looking for a trail-friendly stroller, I’d still suggest using a burly jogger like a BOB or Thule. That said, there are plenty of budget versions that will serve you on trails just as well. Just make sure you leave those umbrella strollers at home. After hiking, be sure to clean off the stroller and check for any ticks that might have clung on the ride.
5 Stroller Friendly Trails on the Seacoast
1. Great Bay Discovery Center Boardwalk
This half mile loop trail starts at the Great Bay Discovery Center on 89 Depot Rd in Greenland. Before heading out on the trail, let your little one play in the “milk truck” and “dog house” out front. From here, pass the front doors of the center and follow the stroller trail signs down the ramp to access the trail. The trail starts as a packed dirt path but soon changes to a boardwalk loop. Kids love following the painted animal tracks on the boardwalk (although don’t tell my kids they aren’t real). In the spring and summer, the free center is a great place to play and learn. It’s home to one of our favorite little Seacoast aquariums as well. While the trail is open year round, the center operates limited hours so check ahead. Leave the pup at home, since this trail does not allow pets. Lastly, really make a day of it by visiting the nature-scape playground (one of my favorites) and bringing a lunch to enjoy in the picnic areas.
2. Dover Community Trail
The Dover Community Trail is a four mile stretch of trail from Watson Rd to Central Ave. The trail is a mix of packed earth/gravel as well as some paved sections. The Watson trailhead to Whittier street is one of our families favorite places to bike on the Seacoast. However, the paved sections are really nice too, and easier to enjoy with a stroller. Recently, the city of Dover installed a large-scale solar system model which begins at the Fischer Street Trailhead. Dover has a brochure and map with more details, here.
3. Willand Pond
Willand Pond is a highly-trafficked community trail that runs for a one mile stretch from Rt 108 in Dover (across from Strafford Farms Restaurant) to the back of the Liquor Store in Somersworth. On a summer day, expect to pass multiple parents with strollers, joggers, retirees, and dog walkers. While swimming isn’t allowed, Willand Pond is a popular fishing spot for families and a great way to quickly “get away” into a little slice of nature. It’s also not a bad spot for beginner kayakers as well! Parking is free at both sites and the Somersworth side has a nice picnic area and a low ropes course for kids to enjoy. The Dover side has a boat launch for non-motorized watercraft. For more information, check out Somersworth’s website.
4. Peverly Pond Loop
This short but sweet boardwalk loop in Newington, NH is only 0.4 miles total. However, when my kids were both under two – it was a godsend! Just long enough to get into nature and yet short enough that I could haul us back to the car in a hurry if needed. The raised boardwalk trail is completely wheelchair and stroller accessible, and includes great views of the forest and river. There’s a giant parking lot and bathrooms at the trailhead. The trail is located at the end of Arboretum Drive. Note, since it is part of the National Wildlife Refuge, dogs are not allowed on this trail. For more information, check out my blog.
5. Fort Foster
Just over the river in Maine, Fort Foster park is the perfect spot to stretch your legs, enjoy a stroller walk, and maybe stop at a beach or fort to play. Located at 76 Pocahontas Rd in Kittery, this town park has it all – history, playground, beach, bathrooms, lighthouses, and picnic areas. While the entire 2 mile loop isn’t totally wheelchair/stroller accessible, many parts of the park are. This map shows the stroller accessible sections with a solid line. While it’s hard to think of a better destination on the Seacoast, visitors should be aware that it does come at a cost. Summer-time entry is $25 for a non-resident vehicle. More info about fees and season dates can be found on the Kittery website. If this is too much, consider visiting during the off season, when visitors can park outside the gate and enter at no cost. If you’re interested in more forts on the Seacoast, be sure to check out my list of favorites!
Try a Trail!
As a former “city girl”, it sometimes feels like Seacoast trails don’t accommodate strollers and wheelchairs as much as those in more urban areas. However, I’ve found that if you explore a little, there’s a nice collection for you to experience while your kids are in this stage. For more toddler friendly trails, you’ll find some of my other favorites here. At ages 6 and 8, my kids are now out of the stroller stage, but taking my toddlers on the trails has given me some of my favorite memories of their early childhood. I hope they will do the same for you!
