Neighborhood: Piscataquog
Located on the West Side of Manchester, Piscataquog River Park spreads across 112 acres of forest and fields that border both banks of the Piscataquog River. Visitors can explore two miles of multi-use trails that meander along the river and through the woods. Bird-watching enthusiasts will enjoy the large variety of birds, including great blue herons, red-bellied woodpeckers, scarlet tanagers, and more. Fishing, swimming, and kayaking are also popular activities.
The trailhead on the park's southern side starts behind the George W. Smith Sports Complex (off Precourt Street). There is ample parking and a handicapped-accessible ramp to the water's edge. Further up the trail are several staircases providing easy river access, a small beach area, and a footbridge connecting both banks. The northern trailhead has parking available at the West Side Arena and is accessible to the Piscataquog Rail Trail. Visitors can view the Kelly Falls dam, erected over 100 years ago to produce hydroelectric energy, from this trail. In 2023, Connor Bishop built and installed a kiosk with trail information and a map for his Eagle Scout Project, making it easier to navigate the park's trails.
In late 2022, the Friends of Piscataquog River Park formed. It is a local non-profit community group whose mission is to promote the use and maintenance of the park and to encourage policies and projects that protect the park's beauty and natural environment for the benefit of the community. For more information regarding the Friends of Piscataquog River Park and volunteer opportunities, email friendsofprp@gmail.com.
For directions, click here.
The Piscataquog River Park Tree ID Trail is a self-guided walking route that highlights the park's rich diversity of tree species. Developed by the UNH Cooperative Extension and the Division of Forests & Lands in partnership with Manchester Parks and the Friends of the Piscataquog, the trail features educational markers and a map to help visitors identify each tree along the way. Click this link or the image below for the map: Piscataquog River Park Tree ID Trail Map.
