Hiking Trails
Get nearer to nature
Family‑friendly nature trails through fields, forests, and wetlands
Enjoy getting nearer to nature on easy, family‑friendly hiking trails that wander through fields, forests, and wetlands at Squam Lakes Natural Science Center. If you’re searching for family friendly hiking trails, our short loop trails are designed for children, grandparents, and newer hikers who want a safe, scenic walk in the woods.
Trail admission tickets are required to access hiking trails.
Stay Safe on the Trails
Hiking tips for a safe, relaxed visit
- Please be respectful of distancing around other hikers on Science Center trails.
- Wear proper footwear with good traction.
- Bring water and sunscreen.
- Mosquitoes, blackflies, and ticks love the forest too—be prepared with protective clothing or insect repellent.
- Tread lightly, stay on marked trails, and have fun!
Trail Descriptions
Our Hiking Trails
Ecotone Trail
- Distance: ⅓ mile
- Time: About 30 minutes
An ecotone is the “edge” where two different natural communities meet, for example, the shore where a lake and forest meet, the edge between a marsh and a field, or the transition between a thicket and a pasture. The Ecotone Trail is a gentle ⅓‑mile loop that follows the boundary between field and forest, with excellent habitat for many animals thanks to abundant food and shelter. It’s a great short nature walk for families with younger children.
Forest Trail
- Distance: ⅔ mile
- Time: About 1 hour
- Blaze color: Follow the yellow blazes
Explore about 30 acres of forest on this easy nature trail and look for signs of both past and present human use of the land, along with wildlife tracks and clues. Along the way, you’ll see a few areas that have been harvested using different forestry techniques, demonstrating how forests can be managed for both wood and wildlife. This is a good choice for families who want a slightly longer but still manageable hike.
Mt. Fayal Trail
- Distance: 1 mile
- Time: About 1 hour
- Blaze color: Follow the red blazes
The Mt. Fayal Trail is a one‑mile wooded hike to the summit of Mt. Fayal (elevation 1,067 feet), offering beautiful views of Squam Lake. Along the trail, you may glimpse truly wild creatures or discover interesting plants and trees. You’ll also find signs of past human activity, including remnants of the old Piper Homestead, stone foundations of the farmhouse and barn, and stone walls outlining former sheep pastures. It’s a rewarding, moderate outing for families ready for a little more adventure.