Stratham

A half-mile loop of boardwalks and trails through diverse habitats including salt marshes, mudflats, and eelgrass beds at New Hampshire's largest estuarine system. The hidden gem is the replica Native American summer fishing camp with a birch bark wigwam tucked away on the Woodland Trail, where educational programs are held. The boardwalk offers stunning views of Great Bay and excellent birding, especially for osprey and waterfowl.

While many know about Stratham Hill Park, locals love the quieter Tote Road trail that leads past a series of hidden woodland ponds and wetlands before connecting to less-traveled single-track trails like Kitty Rock. The fire tower at the summit offers views of Great Bay and surrounding lakes, but the real secret is the network of mountain bike trails with names like Eagle and Lovell Road that wind through steep ups and downs.

A quiet natural area and boat launch beside the NH-108 bridge where the Squamscott River meets extensive salt marshes. This NH Fish & Game property offers excellent fishing, birding, and kayaking with unspoiled marshland views. Local researchers study the endangered salt marsh sparrow here, and the landing provides one of the most accessible spots to experience Great Bay's tidal ecosystem up close.

This working farm dates to the 1660s and features one of New Hampshire's oldest barns, a mid-18th century English barn that's whitewashed and beautifully preserved. Beyond the historic structures listed on the National Register, the farm creates a different corn maze design each year and sells fresh produce from a rustic farm stand. The rolling fields and stone walls create a scenic oasis that feels worlds away from the commercial development along Route 108.