Pulpit Rock Conservation Area - Bedford, NH
Pulpit Rock Conservation Area: Dog-Friendly Hiking in Bedford, New Hampshire
Pulpit Rock Conservation Area is a scenic, pet-friendly spot located in Bedford, NH, featuring miles of well-marked hiking trails, beautiful waterfalls, beaver dams, and lush woodlands. This hidden gem is ideal for dog owners seeking a peaceful, nature-filled outing with their pets. The area is shaded—making it perfect for summer hiking—with ample benches and picnic tables to rest and enjoy the tranquility. Dogs are welcome throughout the park, but leash requirements apply for everyone’s safety.
The trails at Pulpit Rock Conservation Area are easy to moderate, ideal for both beginners and seasoned hikers. While the park is not fenced and does not have a dedicated off-leash area, many visitors have reported encountering well-behaved, leashed dogs along the way. With plenty of space to explore, you and your pup can enjoy streams, wooden walkways, and even a small waterfall. Ample parking is available, but amenities like restrooms and water stations are limited, so plan ahead!
FAQ
- Are dogs allowed off-leash at this park? Dogs must be on a leash while enjoying Pulpit Rock Conservation Area.
- What are the park’s leash requirements? Leashes are required for all dogs while on the trails.
- Is there shade or shelter available? Yes, the park offers plenty of natural shade along the wooded trails.
- Are there benches or seating areas for owners? Yes, you’ll find benches and picnic tables throughout the trails.
- Is there parking available? Yes, there is a large parking lot at the park entrance.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, the park features a variety of pet-friendly trails ideal for hiking and nature walks.
- Is the park muddy after it rains? Some areas of the park can become muddy, especially after rain or during the spring thaw.
- Are there ticks or other pests common in the area? As with most wooded areas, it is recommended to bring bug repellent as ticks and other bugs can be found in the park.
Reviews
It’s a shaded area which is great for summer hiking. My 5 year old was able to traverse the semi floating wooden waking slats and have fun. A good dog walking place too. Please keep it clean.
03/10/25. Spent several hours hiking the white trail and exploring a few of the others. Was able to walk the center of the basin below the Pulpit rock. So beautiful with the waterfall and seeing the huge ice formation that was created by it. The brook was flowing fully and saw a few other waterfalls. Beautiful day of about 53 degrees.
Beautiful, area with lots of nature to explore. It’s been dry, would recommend waiting if looking to view waterfalls or streams. There are benches to rest. Dog friendly with leash. Ran across a few friendly faces, over all not crowded. Peaceful, and soul quenching a great place to escape your busy life and silence the noise.
It’s a great local spot to get some fresh air. Nice trails, and there are plenty to choose from. Trails are easy to follow with tagged trees that vary in color. I started on the north end and did a big loop around Pulpit Rock (Kennard to Tufts to Campbell) which clocked in at 3 miles. I honestly forgot to take a picture of Pulpit Rock 🤦🏼♂️ but it’s really neat to see in person. Today, the water level was very low in the brook.
I discovered more than I expected when I visited. I thought 🤔 I would just see 🙈 a huge rock 🪨 and a trail. Instead, I visited a ravine, remnants of a mill and dam, a huge beaver 🦫 dam, a small waterfall, well maintained and marked trails and Indian Rock 🪨. I also came across a kiosk with historical information ℹ️ about the area. Unfortunately, I also came across graffiti as well.
I was not 100% certain which rock was Pulpit Rock. Were the huge rocks at the ravine Pulpit Rock or was it the rock just before it? I did visit the bottom of the ravine. It was impressive looking down 👇 and up!
I explored the main trail. It connects to the Pulpit River Trail in Auburn.
Bring bug 🪲 repellent, water and a good pair of shoes 👟! 🐕 Dogs allowed. Please clean up after them, thanks 👍!
Not wheelchair ♿ or stroller accessable. There are a lot of small rocks and (I am Groot!) roots on the trail.
Keep an eye 👁️ on your kids and pets if you visit the ravine! The drop is significant and there is only one safety rope!
The trail is easy to moderate. I recommend a visit.