Gretchen Stuppy Carlson
Tucked away in the quiet towns of Dorchester and Lyme, Green Woodlands is one of New Hampshire’s best-kept outdoor secrets. Spanning tens of thousands of acres, this privately conserved land offers a rare combination of wilderness, thoughtfully designed trails, and completely free access for visitors.
Whether you’re visiting in the heat of summer or the heart of winter, Green Woodlands delivers a true backcountry experience without requiring expert-level skills. Bring your bike or your nordic skis and enjoy the day! We’ve enjoyed Green Woodlands during all seasons!
Looking for more things to do in the area? You might also like skating at nearby Lake Morey.
Looking to explore adventures around New England? I've spent almost my entire life living in New England and love to explore, photograph, and write about the region. You can find details of incredible hikes, hidden gems, delicious food and my top tips for traveling around the Northeast here and in my newsletter: Uncover New England.
What Makes Green Woodlands Special
Greenwoodlands is a conservation-focused landscape designed to balance recreation with preservation. While it doesn’t have high peaks, you’ll find plenty of remote ponds and quiet forests with miles of thoughtfully built trail
Summer & Fall: Hiking, Biking, and Backcountry Exploring
In the warmer months, Green Woodlands transforms into a mountain biking and hiking destination with over 60 miles of trails. The trails pass through forests, wetlands, and rolling terrain. You can also hike or swim in one of the ponds.
What to Do:
- Mountain Biking:
The trail system includes machine-built singletrack, flow trails, and longer backcountry loops. Trails are designed for all levels, though some routes can be physically demanding. - Hiking & Walking:
Options range from short, easy loops to longer backcountry routes like the Town Line Pond Loop (8+ miles) or scenic warming hut loops. - Swimming & Relaxing:
With multiple remote ponds, including the large Cummins Pond, this is a perfect place to cool off or enjoy a quiet picnic.
Winter: Cross-Country Skiing Wonderland
When snow arrives, Green Woodlands becomes a cross-country ski destination. Not only is it free but they groom many trails, offering warming huts and fires complete with smores ingredients and hot coco.
There are 50+ kilometers of groomed ski trails, suitable for both skate and classic skiing.
Who It’s Best For
Greenwoodlands is ideal for:
- Families looking for outdoor adventure
- Beginner to advanced hikers and bikers
- Cross-country skiers
- Anyone craving solitude and nature
Important Tips Before You Go
- No services nearby: Bring water, snacks, and supplies
- Limited cell service: Download maps ahead of time
- Seasonal access: Some roads close during mud season
- Respect the land: This is a conservation-focused area
