Smarts Mountain Trailhead - Lyme, NH
If you’re looking for a scenic, dog-friendly experience in Lyme, New Hampshire, Smarts Mountain Trailhead is a top choice. This well-maintained pet-friendly trail system invites dog owners to explore miles of beautiful hiking and biking paths, some of which offer easy access to streams for cooling off your pup. The location provides historical signs, offering a glimpse into regional history as you walk alongside Laurel Creek or tackle the more challenging Appalachian Trail views.
While not a traditional fenced dog park, the area is very popular with local pet owners for on-leash adventures, with plenty of shade from towering trees and several well-marked, graveled trails suitable for both kids and leashed dogs. A gravel parking lot accommodates about 10–20 cars, but arriving early is suggested as it fills up quickly, especially on weekends. While natural and not highly equipped, Smarts Mountain Trailhead stands out among dog-friendly hiking options in the Upper Valley for its stunning scenery and accessibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the park’s leash requirements? Dogs are welcome but must be kept on leash at all times.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, the trailhead connects to miles of well-marked hiking and biking trails, including access to the Appalachian Trail.
- Is there a swimming area or pond for dogs? There is a stream running by the trailhead where dogs can cool off.
- Is there shade or shelter available? The trails offer plenty of natural shade from the surrounding trees, but there are no covered shelters.
- Are restrooms available for owners? There is mention of a bathroom near the parking area.
- How busy does the park get on weekends? The parking area fills up quickly on weekends, so early arrival is suggested.
- Are ticks or other pests common in the area? Ticks have been reported, especially in some weeks, so tick prevention is advised.
- What is the best place to park? Use the gravel parking lot near the trailhead, which fits about 10–20 cars depending on how closely people park.
- Is the park regularly cleaned and maintained? The trails are described as well-marked and well-maintained by several reviewers.
- Is the park muddy after it rains? Some trails, like the Ranger Trail, tend to be muddy, especially after rain.
Reviews
Loved the trails here! absolutely beautiful. wanted to write this review of the trailhead specifically because i always wonder about the space at these and wanted to add some pictures. there’s probably about room for 10 cars maybe? depending how close people park. the road leading up to the trailhead says no parking so i’d try and get here early if you can, but i got here around 9am and there were only 3 cars at that point but it was full when i got back down! happy hiking 🙂
Loved the trails here! absolutely beautiful. wanted to write this review of the trailhead specifically because i always wonder about the space at these and wanted to add some pictures. there’s probably about room for 10 cars maybe? depending how close people park. the road leading up to the trailhead says no parking so i’d try and get here early if you can, but i got here around 9am and there were only 3 cars at that point but it was full when i got back down! happy hiking 🙂
Decent size parking area. Room for 10 cars? Nice stream running past to cool your feet at the end of the hike! No facilities.
Decent size parking area. Room for 10 cars? Nice stream running past to cool your feet at the end of the hike! No facilities.
Great hiking trails. Ranger Trail tends to be muddy, but great access to water for dogs about half way. AT provides gorgeous views along the way multiple times. The view from the fire tower at the top is fabulous!
Great hiking trails. Ranger Trail tends to be muddy, but great access to water for dogs about half way. AT provides gorgeous views along the way multiple times. The view from the fire tower at the top is fabulous!
Go up the AT down the ranger trail. Don’t box in other cars
Great hike!
Go up the AT down the ranger trail. Don’t box in other cars
Great hike!
Among the better but fairly tough local hikes as well as on Appalachian trail. Best have leki poles or the like.
Among the better but fairly tough local hikes as well as on Appalachian trail. Best have leki poles or the like.