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Routes
Hikes
United States
New Hampshire
Merrimack County

Rollins State Park

The best walks and hikes in Rollins State Park

4.6

(7)

150

hikers

6

hikes

Hiking in Rollins State Park centers around Mount Kearsarge, a prominent peak just under 3,000 feet, offering panoramic views across New Hampshire. The park features diverse woodlands, granite ledges, and visible glacial formations that shape the terrain. Trails ascend through forests and over exposed rock, leading to the summit. The landscape provides a mix of moderate grades and steeper sections, characteristic of New England mountain environments.

Best hiking trails in Rollins State Park

  • The most popular hiking route is Mount Kearsarge loop from Mount Kearsarge, a 1.1 miles (1.8 km) trail that takes 43 minutes to complete. This route offers direct access to the summit with rewarding views.
  • Another top favourite among local hikers is Winslow and Barlow Trail Loop, a moderate 2.5 miles (4.0 km) path. This trail traverses varied terrain, including woodlands and open areas with elevation changes.
  • Local hikers also love the Mount Kearsarge loop from Black Mountain Forest, a 9.7 miles (15.6 km) trail leading through extensive forest and offering a more challenging, longer experience, often completed in about 5 hours 58 minutes.
  • Hiking in Rollins State Park is defined by ascents to Mount Kearsarge, dense woodlands, and exposed granite ledges. The network offers options for different ability levels, from shorter summit loops to longer, more challenging trails.
  • The routes in Rollins State Park are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 7 reviews. More than 140 hikers have used komoot to explore Rollins State Park's varied terrain.

Last updated: April 27, 2026

4.0

(1)

11

hikers

#1.

Mount Kearsarge loop from Mount Kearsarge

1.75km

00:43

90m

90m

Moderate hike. Great for any fitness level. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.

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Moderate

4.8

(5)

98

hikers

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.

Moderate
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Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.

Hard

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.

Moderate

11

hikers

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

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Popular around Rollins State Park

Running Trails in Rollins State Park

Road Cycling Routes in Rollins State Park

Cycling in Rollins State Park

Tips from the Community

jospa
October 15, 2024, Mount Kearsarge

Highly suggest hiking this counterclockwise. Great 360 degree views from the top and a climbable fire tower!

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A small park in Sutton, Mildred T. Leffert Natural Area, is ideally placed beside Kezar Lake for a wonderful outdoor experience.

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A small park in Sutton, Mildred T. Leffert Natural Area, is ideally placed beside Kezar Lake for a wonderful outdoor experience.

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Lisa
December 26, 2023, Kezar Lake

The loop around Kezar Lake is a fine way to take in fall foliage as you stretch your legs. This is technically a road run, but the terrain will keep you on your toes with a mix of pavement, gravel and dirt. At the south end of the lake you'll find Wadleigh State Park, which even has a small beach.

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Lisa
December 25, 2023, Mount Kearsarge

Mount Kearsage is one of the oldest mountains in New Hampshire, and actually holds two different state parks on its flanks: Winslow State Park and Rollins State Park. The grooves in the rock at the summit were carved by a glacier long ago.

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Lisa
December 25, 2023, Mount Kearsarge

Mount Kearsage is one of the oldest mountains in New Hampshire, and actually holds two different state parks on its flanks: Winslow State Park and Rollins State Park. The grooves in the rock at the summit were carved by a glacier long ago.

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Lisa
December 10, 2023, Kezar Lake

Pedaling the roads that loop around Kezar Lake is a fine way to take in fall foliage. At the south end of the lake you'll find Wadleigh State Park, which even has a small beach. You might not want to do a complete loop around the lake on skinny road tires, though, due to some rough patches of pavement.

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Lisa
December 10, 2023, Kezar Lake

Pedaling the roads that loop around Kezar Lake is a fine way to take in fall foliage. At the south end of the lake you'll find Wadleigh State Park, which even has a small beach.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many hiking trails are available in Rollins State Park?

Rollins State Park offers a selection of 6 hiking routes, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging ascents. This includes 2 easy, 3 moderate, and 1 difficult trail, ensuring options for various experience levels.

What are the different difficulty levels of hiking trails in Rollins State Park?

You'll find a range of difficulties in Rollins State Park. There are 2 easy routes, 3 moderate routes, and 1 difficult route. The Kezar Lake loop from North Sutton is an example of an easy trail, while the Mount Kearsarge loop from Black Mountain Forest presents a more difficult challenge.

Are there any family-friendly hiking options in Rollins State Park?

Yes, Rollins State Park is a great destination for families. The Rollins Trail, which departs from 'The Garden' picnic area, is particularly suitable for families due to its moderate grade and scenic path through the forest and over granite ledges. It's a more gentle option for reaching the summit of Mount Kearsarge.

Are dogs allowed on the hiking trails in Rollins State Park?

Rollins State Park generally welcomes dogs on its hiking trails, provided they are kept on a leash. It's always a good idea to check for any specific signage or park regulations upon arrival, especially regarding sensitive natural areas or wildlife.

What kind of views can I expect from the trails in Rollins State Park?

The trails in Rollins State Park are renowned for their spectacular panoramic views. From the summit of Mount Kearsarge, you can often see as far as Mount Monadnock, the New Hampshire coastal plain, and even the Boston skyline on a clear day. The scenic auto road and 'The Garden' picnic area also offer impressive vistas before you even start your hike.

Are there any loop trails available in Rollins State Park?

Yes, there are several loop options for hikers. For instance, the Mount Kearsarge loop from Mount Kearsarge offers a moderate 1.75 km loop. You can also combine sections of the Rollins and Lincoln Trails for varied experiences, including a 1-mile loop to the summit of Mount Kearsarge.

How long do hikes typically take in Rollins State Park?

Hike durations vary depending on the trail and your pace. Shorter loops like the Mount Kearsarge loop from Mount Kearsarge can take around 45 minutes to an hour. Longer, more challenging routes such as the Mount Kearsarge loop from Black Mountain Forest can extend to over 6 hours.

What is the best time of year to hike in Rollins State Park?

The park is beautiful throughout the warmer months. Spring offers lush greenery, while autumn provides stunning fall foliage. Summer is popular for its clear views. Always check local weather conditions before heading out, as conditions can change rapidly, especially at higher elevations.

Is there parking available at Rollins State Park?

Yes, Rollins State Park provides parking areas. A 3.5-mile scenic auto road leads to parking and picnic areas, including 'The Garden' picnic area, which serves as a starting point for summit trails. There are also other access points like Winslow State Park, which offers additional parking for trails such as the Mount Kearsarge loop from Winslow State Park.

What do other hikers enjoy the most about hiking in Rollins State Park?

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 out of 5 stars. Reviewers often praise the spectacular panoramic views from Mount Kearsarge, the diverse trail options, and the accessibility provided by the scenic auto road, making the rewarding summit views attainable for various fitness levels.

Are there any challenging hikes for experienced hikers in Rollins State Park?

Absolutely. For experienced hikers seeking a challenge, the Lincoln Trail offers a more rugged experience. While it starts with a steep section, it continues on a gentler slope towards the summit. The Mount Kearsarge loop from Black Mountain Forest is also classified as a difficult route, providing a substantial ascent and distance.

Most popular routes in Rollins State Park

Running Trails in Rollins State Park

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