The Marvelous 2.3-Mile Trail In New Hampshire Leads Adventurers To Little-Known Glacial Boulders
While the White Mountains certainly garner much of the attention when it comes to hiking in New Hampshire, there is still so much to explore around the rest of the state. Southern New Hampshire in particular is a wonderful region for hiking, with its scenic summits, forests, waterfalls, and much more. A hike to Stoddard Rocks affords a chance to visit a geological wonder in this part of the state.
The route begins at the trailhead for Pickerel Cove on Shedd Hill Rd., a parcel of land conserved by the Society for the Protection of New Hampshire Forests. There is parking here for a few cars (not plowed in winter).
While the route to Stoddard Rocks does not have an official name, it is well-marked with blazes and signs at junctions. A longer loop option can also be done, but a simple out-and-back hike is the easiest walk.
Most of the route to Stoddard Rocks follows old woods roads at easy grades with good footing. It's perfect for families, kids, and pets (which must be under control at all times).
About halfway along the trek to Stoddard Rocks, hikers will pass by Pioneer Lake. This backcountry body of water is a good place for a rest break or as a destination in itself. You might even catch a beaver at work here.
The "rocks" of Stoddard Rocks are a grouping of glacial boulders situated at the summit of a peak formerly known as Chapman's Hill (1,635 feet.). The boulders are said to have been deposited here after the retreat of glaciers during the last ice age.
The trail reaches the rocks and winds through the massive boulders, with the largest being 35 feet tall. Nature has certainly left these boulders in a unique location!
The walk to Stoddard Rocks, in addition to visiting one of the region’s most interesting geologic features, is a pleasant journey into nature with much to see. For more information and to download a trail map, visit the Town of Stoddard website.
