The dog days of summer are here! With the weather heating up and the days getting longer, it’s time to get outside and enjoy the sun. What could make a beautiful summer day even better? Getting to spend it with your pup! We’ve put together a list of awesome parks and activities for you and Fido to enjoy together.
1) Wagon Hill Farm (Durham, NH)
Wagon Hill is the perfect combination of open field and trails. The 139 acre farm is a great dog attraction and offers yours the chance to run through the trees or through the tall grass (be sure to check for ticks)! The property also includes a sandy beach area overlooking Great Bay, which allows your dog to cool off in the water on hot days. Check out their website for off leash hours and rules.
2) Adams Point Trail (Durham, NH)
Adams Point Trail is a shady, easy/moderate terrain hike perfect for any season! With areas where you can stop for a view of the bay, grassy sections and wooded paths for dogs to explore, it’s a great spot. The trails are well maintained and there is great opportunity for birding if that is something you enjoy!
3) Urban Forestry Center (Portsmouth, NH)
This scenic park is a total of 182 acre farm that includes a smaller loop where tree identification and conservation is and then a longer trail loop that winds through the forest and goes along the salt marsh. The Urban Forestry helps educate the public on wildlife conservation, forest management and much more. Check out their website for more information.
4) Fort Foster (Kittery, ME)
Fort Foster is located on Gerrish Island in Kittery Point. It has three small, sandy beaches along with trails, restrooms and the old military fortifications. Dogs are asked to be leashed at all times but there is plenty to explore at this historic spot. The park also has an excellent view of the beginning to Portsmouth Harbor as well as Whaleback Light, Portsmouth Harbor Light and Fort Constitution.
5) Yappy Hours Around the Seacoast
NHSPCA Yappy Hour is back this summer with even more dates! Participating breweries around the Seacoast are hosting a night (or nights) of pups, brews and fun! Guests are invited to bring their dog and have a beer, play games and benefit the animals here at the shelter. With $1 from all beer sales going to the care of the animals at the NHSPCA, it’s the perfect date night for you and your pup! Check out dates and locations here.
6) Stratham Hill Park (Stratham, NH)
Located about a mile from the New Hampshire SPCA headquarters, Stratham Hill Park is a great place for dogs to run, socialize and explore. With a trail winding up through the woods that leads you up to the water tower (with a spectacular view), this park has got it all. There is also a cut off on the main trail if you choose to skip the extension to the water tower. Learn more about the park’s historic past here.
7)Benedictine Park (Bedford, NH)
While this option is a bit of a drive, your pup will thank you! After running through the wide open field, head off into the trails surrounding the area. Dogs are welcome off leash and there are trash bags and cans available to clean up after your dog. See fun photos are read positive reviews here
8) The Gonic Trails (Rochester, NH)
With beautiful waterfalls and multiple trail options, The Gonic Trails are a great summer hike! Allow your pup to dip their toes in the water and explore the shaded wood trails. Enjoy the shorter 1.5 stroll or take on the 3.5 mile hike with three different trails winding through this scenic location. Dogs are allowed on leash and will have plenty to sniff!
