Pudding Pond Loop Nature Walk - North Conway, NH

Focus: Northern Hardwoods birds; beaver; wildflowers

Season: Available Year Round

Hike: 2.0 mile round-trip; Difficulty: Easy

Time: 3 hours

Size: 3-12 persons

Fee: $20 Adult / $10 Child 10-14yo; Contact for Questions or Reservations

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The Green Hills Preserve greets the visitor to the Mt. Washington Valley as the low north-south running mountain ridge flanking the east side of Rt. 16 in North Conway, NH. Opposing the Green Hills to the west of Rt. 16 is the ridgeback of the Moat Mountains. From south to north, the peaks of the Green Hills Preserve include Rattlesnake Mountain, Middle Mountain, Peaked Mountain, and Blackcap Mountain (the Blackcap Mountain summit has easy access from Hurricane Mountain Rd. in summer). Stewarded by The Nature Conservancywith support from the Anna B. Stearns Foundation, this region of northern hardwoods forest was put into conservation in 1990.

Directions and Parking: Parking is available at the Pudding Pond Trailhead on Thompson Rd. From Rte. 16 in North Conway, turn east onto Artist Falls Rd just north of the Muddy Moose and 1765 restaurants. Continue 0.2 miles to the stop sign at the intersection with the North-South Rd. Continue across the intersection and turn right onto Thompson Rd (0.3 mi). The Pudding Pond Trailhead is 0.2 miles on the rightside of Thompson Rd.

Trail Conditions: The Pudding Pond Loop Trail is in excellent condition. The trail is mostly dry, well drained, cleared of rocks, and having mostly gentle grades. There are roots that require some care, but are easily navigated. Near the south-most region's pond fringes, the trail courses over bog bridges, some of which need to be reset, because they present the foot with non-level landing and at-times wobbly base. Overall, this 2.0 mile loop trail is appropriate for those with good balance and endurance to complete the circuit. Specialized footwear or hiking boots are not required for this trail, although flip-flops and sandals are discouraged. From May to mid-August, biting insects and ticks could present themselves unfavorably. Proper attire, including (long-sleeves, pants, and a hat can help, and as needed application of bug repellant.

What to Expect: This gentle trail system offers fine wild forest and stream habitats within a mile from North Conway's Main Street. The trail passes through forest with an overstory of White Pine and an understory dominated by American Beech. The ground cover is relatively devoid of herbaceous or woody plants, but rather is carpeted by the leaf litter fall from the previous autumn. Winding its way along the outflow stream of Pudding Pond, signs of beaver activity are apparent. The forest community changes as stands of Eastern Hemlock dominate in some low lying areas that fringe the water courses. Many different forest and water birds can be seen and heard. There is much to see and hear in around Pudding Pond.

What to Bring: Map (I will provide a map on the tour), camera, binoculars, field guides, appropriate footwear and clothing for the conditions, drinking water, and sunscreen. While the trail is greatly accessible for most abilities, the complete loop would be difficult with a stroller and should not be considered an option.