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Places We Protect

Manchester Cedar Swamp

New Hampshire

A woman resting on a bench in the woods.
A Place to Rest Handmade benches dot the All Persons Trail in Manchester, NH, providing frequent places to stop and take in the surroundings. © Rooted in Light Media

Nature in the City—No Barriers Required

Explore giant rhododendron thickets, ancient black gums and a universally accessible All Persons Trail.

Overview

Description

This is a gentle and loving reminder that to ensure the safety and comfort of all visitors, as well as to protect the wildlife and rare habitat, dogs are not permitted at Manchester Cedar Swamp Preserve. Licensed service dogs only are allowed on the All Persons Trail.

New Hampshire’s most populated city isn’t where most of us think of going to explore nature. But nature abounds here at the 640-acre Manchester Cedar Swamp Preserve, the largest conservation area in the city—providing residents and visitors alike with opportunities for a peaceful escape, outdoor recreation and nature study close to home.

Visitors to this preserve will encounter 1.8 miles of trails, including the universally accessible Cedar Swamp All Persons Trail, featuring a spacious parking area, inclusive, informational signage, immersive interpretive points of interest, a non-gendered, family-friendly, ADA-compliant portable restroom, and an audio tour available in both English and Spanish. Along the way you'll find shady hemlock groves, giant rhododendron patches and the globally rare Atlantic white cedar swamps that are the preserve’s namesake. Mingling in are black gum, another long-lived tree species that occurs in the Manchester Cedar Swamp wetlands. Some of these trees are over 450 years old.

When you’re down on the accessible boardwalk in the cedar swamp, the stillness and sense of solitude can feel like a remote wilderness. Amazing to think that in 10 minutes’ time you can be off the trails and in downtown Manchester getting ready for your next adventure!

Access

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

Pets are not permitted at this preserve. Licensed service dogs only on the APT.

Hours

Open dawn to dusk every day.

Wheelchair Accessible

The All Persons Trail is designed to be used by those with assistive and adaptive devices such as wheelchairs and strollers. Bicycles are prohibited. For accessibility, the use of Other Power-Driven Mobility Devices is limited to: Non-combustible engine, no wider than 36", weigh less than 500 lbs and doesn’t exceed walking speed. Restricted to All Persons Trail only. Seasonal conditions may apply.

Highlights

Hiking, snowshoeing and bird watching are fun activities at this preserve. The All Persons Trail is suitable for all abilities and includes interactive, immersive experiences for all visitors. A free audio tour is available in both English and Spanish.

Size

640 acres

Explore our work in New Hampshire

Photos from Manchester Cedar Swamp Preserve

Just minutes from the bustling streets of downtown Manchester lies another world.

Manchester Cedar Swamp Preserve Map.
A man takes a photo of a sign with his phone.
A boy using a wheelchair makes his way down a boardwalk together with his father.
A group of white flowers with green leaves.
Sunlight breaks through trees along a path.
A brown and white bird on a branch.
A kiosk sign that says Manchester Cedar Swamp Preserve with the logo of The Nature Conservancy.
Two men push a third in a wheelchair along a wooded path.
A woman hugs a large tree.
Looking down on bright green ferns.
Manchester Cedar Swamp Preserve Map.

Manchester Cedar Swamp Preserve Map: Map for 2-24 magazine article on inclusive trails © Daniele Simonelli

A man takes a photo of a sign with his phone.

Signage: Sign at the Manchester Cedar Swamp All Persons Trail was carefully designed to serve a variety of purposes. © Rooted in Light Media

A boy using a wheelchair makes his way down a boardwalk together with his father.

Enjoying the Ride: The All Persons Trail at Manchester Cedar Swamp gives Bohdi Bhattarai the freedom to explore together with his dad, Ranjan. © Riveo Creative for The Nature Conservancy

A group of white flowers with green leaves.

Giant Rhododendron: These giant shrubs light up the forest with their blooms in mid-July. © Tim Mooney/TNC

Sunlight breaks through trees along a path.

Glow and Light: The sun filters through cedars at Manchester Cedar Swamp Preserve in New Hampshire. © Li Platz/TNC

A brown and white bird on a branch.

Ovenbird: The dome and side entrance of ovenbirds' nests make it resemble a Dutch oven, hence their name. © Kenneth Cole Scheider

A kiosk sign that says Manchester Cedar Swamp Preserve with the logo of The Nature Conservancy.

Welcome: Manchester Cedar Swamp features a universally accessible trail suitable for all ages and abilities. © Rooted in Light Media

Two men push a third in a wheelchair along a wooded path.

Built to Explore: Max Morelli of Opportunity Networks enjoying the All Persons Trail with his clients, Drew and Kevin. © Jerry Monkman/EcoPhotography

A woman hugs a large tree.

Hug A Tree: New Hampshire's Marketing and Communications Intern, Li Platz, hugs a 500-year-old black gum tree at Manchester Cedar Swamp Preserve. © Megan Latour/TNC

Looking down on bright green ferns.

Ferns: Ferns are abundant in Manchester Cedar Swamp in Manchester, New Hampshire. © Eric Aldrich/The Nature Conservancy

Visit

    • Atlantic white cedar & giant rhododendron: Explore one of the state’s largest and most ecologically valuable Atlantic white cedar—giant rhododendron swamps (about 42 acres)—a globally rare natural community that creates deep shade, stillness and a true “away‑from‑the‑city” feel.
    • Ancient black gum: Look for uncommon black gum (tupelo) in the wetlands; some trees are 450+ years old, among the oldest in New England.
    • Seasonal color & blooms: In June-July, giant rhododendron thickets burst with white flowers; late spring through fall brings lush fern displays across the forest floor.
    • Wildlife viewing: The mosaic of cedar swamp, hemlock groves and open powerline edges supports deer, coyote, porcupine and moose movements; wetlands host turtles, beavers, muskrats, river otters and birdlife including great blue heron and osprey. Please view wildlife from a respectful distance.
    • An urban nature escape: Just 10 minutes from downtown Manchester, the preserve offers 1.8 miles of trails and a universally accessible experience on the All Persons Trail.

  • Download the Manchester Cedar Swamp All Persons Trail Map

    Trail System Overview (1.8 miles total)
    Manchester Cedar Swamp features a compact network of footpaths and boardwalks through cedar swamp, hemlock forest and rhododendron thickets, anchored by the Cedar Swamp All Persons Trail.

    Cedar Swamp All Persons Trail—1.2 miles round trip; accessible
    Experience: An out‑and‑back, gently undulating route on compacted crushed stone with resting benches every ~300–700 feet and immersive interpretive points of interest—ideal for visitors using wheelchairs, strollers and other assistive/adaptive devices. Sections include a boardwalk through the cedar swamp. Follow one‑way signage where posted.
    Specs: 6‑foot tread width (narrowing to 5 feet on the loop portion), grade 0–9.5%, ~100-foot elevation gain, no obstacles; designed to exceed accessibility width guidance.
    Amenities: Spacious, paved (compacted) parking with accessible parking spots, ADA‑compliant portable restroom, inclusive interpretive signage and an audio tour in English and Spanish.
    Access note: Licensed service dogs only on this trail; bicycles are prohibited. 

    Cedar Loop Trail—short loop; natural community highlight
    Experience: A short forest loop that edges a portion of the cedar swamp, showcasing Atlantic white cedar, giant rhododendron, winterberry, cinnamon fern and a prominent black gum along the route.

    Rhododendron Loop Trail—short loop; seasonal blooms
    Experience: Winding through giant rhododendron thickets that produce showy blooms in June–July; a great place to linger under deep evergreens and listen for songbirds.

    Tip: The powerline opening functions as a wildlife travel corridor and a sun‑warmed vantage for observing basking snakes and browsing moose/deer; bring binoculars and scan edges quietly.

    • Hours & access: Open dawn to dusk year‑round; the All Persons Trail is specifically designed for use by everyone, including those using wheelchairs and other adaptive devices.
    • Parking & facilities: Paved parking area at the trailhead; ADA‑compliant portable restroom on site; interpretive signage and audio tour (English/Spanish) available.
    • Dogs & bikes: To protect sensitive habitat and ensure comfort for all visitors, dogs are not permitted at the preserve; licensed service dogs only are allowed on the All Persons Trail. Bicycles are prohibited.
    • Hunting: Hunting is allowed on portions of the preserve, except within 300 feet of the trails. Please check New Hampshire Fish & Game regulations for seasons and permitted species and wear blaze orange in fall for safety.
    • Trail etiquette & safety: Stay on marked trails and boardwalks; follow one‑way guidance where posted; yield space at benches and pull‑outs; give wildlife plenty of room.
    • Seasonal highlights: Rhododendron blooms peak in June–July; wetlands are active with turtles, beavers and herons spring through fall—bring binoculars and plan extra time.

  • The preserve is in the Hackett Hill section of Manchester, on the west side of the Merrimack River.

    • From Interstate 93, take Exit 10 and head south on West River Road (a.k.a. Front Street).
    • Go about 1 mile (crossing the town line from Hooksett into Manchester) and turn right (west and north) onto Hackett Hill Road.
    • Go 0.7 miles and turn left (west) onto Countryside Boulevard.
    • Go about 0.5 miles to where the road starts to curve right.
    • You'll see the trailhead and sign on the left.
    • The parking area will be on the left.

    Live in Manchester? Take public transit! The Manchester Transit Authority's Route 11 bus stops at Manchester Cedar Swamp. View the schedule.

  • To minimize disturbance of the wildlife and habitat of this nature preserve and to support the enjoyment of all visitors, please follow these guidelines:

    • Service dogs only: We love our four-legged friends, but only leashed service animals are permitted on the trails. This ensures the safety of all users and the preservation of wildlife here. Please leave all other pets at home.
    • Leave No Trace: Please keep the preserve clean by carrying out your trash (and any that you find).
    • No camping or open fires allowed.
    • Please, for your safety and the protection of this globally rare ecosystem, stay on marked trails.
    • Foot traffic only; horses, bikes and motorized vehicles are prohibited. Wheelchairs, strollers and assistive/adaptive devices are permitted on the All Persons Trail.
    • For accessibility, the use of Other Power-Driven Mobility Devices is limited to: Non-combustible engine, no wider than 36", weigh less than 500 lbs. and doesn’t exceed walking speed. Restricted to All Persons Trail only. Seasonal conditions may apply.
    • Hunting is allowed on the preserve, except within 300 feet of the trail. Please obey all posted signs and contact NH Fish & Game Department for dates and regulations.
    • Respect the natural world around you! Do not remove or destroy plants, wildlife, minerals or cultural items.

  • Thanks to the incredible funders and supporters who are making the All Persons Trail possible:

    • AARP
    • Anna B. Stearns Charitable Foundation
    • Cowasuck Band of the Pennacook-Abenaki People
    • Disability Rights Center New Hampshire
    • Fields Pond Foundation
    • Madelaine G. von Weber Trust
    • NAACP of Greater Manchester
    • NH Council on Developmental Disabilities
    • NH Parks and Recreation, Recreational Trails Program
    • Norwin S. & Elizabeth N. Bean Foundation
    • Opportunity Networks
    • RiverWoods Manchester
    • Samuel P. Hunt Foundation
    • Southern New Hampshire University
    • The VF Foundation
    • The Manchester community

The Cedar Swamp All Persons Trail
A trail for everyone

Enjoying the Ride The All Persons Trail at Manchester Cedar Swamp gives Bohdi Bhattarai the freedom to explore together with his dad, Ranjan. © Riveo Creative for The Nature Conservancy
A woman points to an outdoor map while a small child looks on.
Let's Go A mother and her child prepare to explore the All Persons Trail at Manchester Cedar Swamp Preserve. © Rooted in Light Media

Nature for Everyone

A chance for all to explore nature

Just minutes from the bustling streets of downtown Manchester lies another world: the peaceful, calm and earthy silence of the Manchester Cedar Swamp—a place of ancient trees and giant ferns, a natural treasure in the midst of New Hampshire's largest city. Unfortunately, for too many, the wonders of places like the Manchester Cedar Swamp have long been inaccessible. The reality is: not everyone can equally access our natural public spaces. For some, standard trails do not offer a sufficiently level surface, gentle slope or secure footing. Others may feel unsafe or uncomfortable being in the woods or navigating traditional trails. Still more may be limited by transportation, unable to even reach these locations.

Breaking Down Barriers

Breaking down these barriers is a vital step in ensuring that the outdoors is truly accessible for all. It is why The Nature Conservancy in New Hampshire has constructed a universally accessible trail at the Manchester Cedar Swamp, with the hopes of introducing this hidden ecological gem to visitors of all abilities and comfort levels. This universal trail offers a tangible opportunity for more people to experience the power of nature, one more affirmation of inclusivity, one more declaration that nature is here for all of us. We are thrilled to provide a trail that is truly inclusive and accessible.

A woman in hiking gear kneeling on a rocky mountain top next to her brown dog.
Richella Simard New Hampshire based educator, artist and LGBTQ+ community member Richella Simard and her dog. © Yasamin Safarzadeh

I have such admiration for TNC NH for hosting panel discussions with the LGBTQ+, physically disabled and BIPOC communities to see how they can be of better service for all individuals to feel welcomed and safe on the trail.

Richella Simard

Educator, Artist & LGBTQ+ Ally | Concord, NH
A person holding a cell phone.
Audio Tour A visitor to Manchester Cedar Swamp in New Hampshire takes the TravelStorys audio tour, available in English and Spanish. © Megan Latour/TNC

Your Visit

We developed the All Persons Trail to be an inclusive, immersive experience. You can expect:

Accessible Parking Area

  • Our upgraded parking area includes accessible parking spaces and a family-friendly, nongendered, ADA-compliant portable toilet (seasonal).

Public Transportation

Informative, Inclusive Signage

  • Kiosk signs clearly display information about the preserve, the All Persons Trail and what users can expect during their visit.

Interpretive Points of Interest

  • Seven beautifully illustrated interpretive panels take visitors on a colorful journey down the trail and provide insight into the sights and sounds of Manchester Cedar Swamp.

Raising Indigenous Voices

  • Manchester Cedar Swamp is within N'dakinna, the unceded ancestral homeland of the Abenaki, Pennacook and Wabanaki people. We are filled with gratitude and respect for the lands, waters and people of N’dakinna and are deeply thankful to the Cowasuck Band of the Pennacook-Abenaki People for their thoughtful collaboration to elevate their voices and highlight their historic and continuing connections to this land. Watch for the Wisdom Curl symbol on interpretive panels along the trail where Indigenous wisdom from our Abenaki friends is being shared.

Audio Tour in English and Spanish

  • Our TravelStorys—a free, app-based, GPS-triggered audio tour—provides an immersive experience for all visitors including kids, adults, Spanish speakers and those with visual impairments. Instructions for accessing the audio tour are available in both languages on the kiosk panel.
All Persons Trail Guidebook Cover.
All Persons Trail Guidebook

We learned so much building this trail, and we want to share it with you! We explore our whole process in this beautiful guidebook.

Download

Additional Resources

Check out our video library from the Manchester Cedar Swamp, including recordings of our Community Conversations.

A scarlet tanager, which is a bright red and black songbird.
Scarlet tanager Scarlet tanager © Matt Williams

History

From Campus to Conserved

Manchester Cedar Swamp nearly became UNH’s Manchester campus. Roads, granite curbs, lighting and utilities were installed—then the campus moved downtown, leaving Hackett Hill’s “ghost‑town” infrastructure behind.

In 1999, the City of Manchester, EPA and NHDES reached a settlement that created a $5.6 million Supplemental Environmental Projects program to fund restoration work while the city phased upgrades to combined sewer overflows. Of that, $2 million was dedicated to protecting rare wetlands on Hackett Hill—home to a globally rare Atlantic white cedar–giant rhododendron swamp.

At EPA’s request, TNC took on ownership and long‑term stewardship: 350 acres were conveyed in 2001, another 252 acres in 2002–2003 and 40 acres known as “the thumb” in 2015. After three years of listening, planning and construction, we opened the Cedar Swamp All Persons Trail on Earth Day 2022, welcoming people of all abilities to experience this urban wilderness.

Nearby Preserves

Need more nature? Visit The Nature Conservancy's other preserves.

Find More Places We Protect

The Nature Conservancy owns nearly 1,500 preserves covering more than 2.5 million acres across all 50 states. These lands protect wildlife and natural systems, serve as living laboratories for innovative science and connect people to the natural world.

See the Complete Map

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