Indian Head River Trail
Indian Head River Trail (IHRT) is a multi-town hiking trail network that links Hanover, Hanson, and Pembroke along the Indian Head River. Expect a loop commonly broken into shorter guided hikes, with the full system described as about a 6-mile circuit.
The corridor runs through conservation land and includes historic mill sites along the Indian Head River. The trail also connects with nearby reserve systems like Tucker Preserve and Hanover’s Iron Mine Brook, letting you stitch together a larger loop around the river.
Trailhead/entry points used for the loop include Hanover Canoe Launch and Luddham’s Ford Park. A Tucker Preserve route/parking option is tied to Ludden’s Ford Park (Pembroke) as well, with Chapman’s Landing (Hanover) also cited as a boat-access parking area along the IHRT.
Surface is primarily ground/path, and the system is built for foot travel (with bicycle and horseback use noted where it applies). The route passes through forest floors, bridges, and short changes in elevation—enough variety that navigation matters more than just following a wide corridor.
Recent improvements funded through state recreational trail programs helped expand and improve the loop, with added wayfinding (trail markers and map holders), ecological and historical signage, and specific rebuilt/added walking surfaces such as about 800 feet of “bog board” walkways. The upgrades were completed after a multi-year coalition effort and volunteer trail work supported ongoing monitoring and guided introductions for new users.
Route character around the river can include areas with narrow walkways and occasional unbridged water crossings, where you’ll step up and down from those narrow sections. With that kind of river-adjacent tread, take extra care when conditions are wet or muddied and be prepared for slower footing.
Management emphasis is on staying on marked trails and respecting shared-use etiquette; dogs are for leashed hiking. Use the posted trail maps/brochures for loops and choose a loop length that matches your time—many outings target a 4-mile or 5-mile portion rather than the whole circuit.
More information: Indian Head River Trail Coalition — Wildlands Trust — News, Tucker Preserve - Wildlands Trust, Indian Head River Day