Frenches Ledges – Plainfield, NH
Pros
Easy to find location
Woods section is shaded
Most trails are loops
First section is a wide path that’s stroller friendly
Has a stream you can play in
Cons
First section is not shaded
Woods section is not stroller friendly
Finding the Trail
If you’re looking for a hike with the kids this is a great one. A trail head is right across from the elementary school on Bonner Road right near the Meriden Store, but you should use this one when school’s not in session. You can also access the trail in two other locations: Colby Hill Road or Columbus Jordan Road. There are directions to all trail heads and a map on this link.
On the Trail
What’s nice is that if you have a stroller the first section of the trail is wide and flat without many roots. It goes to a brook where there’s a bridge and is about ten minute walk or less. After this it enters more dense woods and you wouldn’t be able to take a stroller. The first section has little shade and the woods section is quite shaded.
The paths are marked and most are loops. On the map I chose the Townsend Loop to do with my little one in a carrier. I walked part of the Bloodbrook Loop but it was too hot and I decided to turn back when it met with the French’s Ledges Trail. The French’s Ledges Trail is a windy trail that is not too steep until you approach the top. Then the trail gets steeper and you have to do a bit of climbing around rocks and trees.
The Upper Valley Land Trust does a great job describing the trails and providing images during different seasons as well.
Explore and come back to comment. What’s your favorite trail?
