College Woods, located on the west side of the UNH campus, offers over 250 acres of forest, streams, and open space, with a network of trails used for walking, jogging, skiing, bird watching, and general relaxation. From the main trailhead on Colovos Road, visitors can access a 0.65-mile trail that travels through a scenic hemlock-hardwood forest and ends at a bench overlooking the Oyster River reservoir.
This main trail is surfaced with packed dirt and crushed gravel and ranges from 4-12 feet in width. While it generally follows ADA guidelines, sections of uneven terrain—including exposed roots, rocks, and occasional muddy areas—may be difficult for some mobility devices, especially during wet conditions. Benches are available along the sloped areas for rest. Although the final short segment leading to the reservoir is not designated as accessible, the overlook with a bench serves as a natural and rewarding endpoint. See Trail Access Information below for more information about this Accessible Experience.
(Applies to Main Trail)
Trail conditions can change without warning. Trail last assessed: 6/10/2025
Presently, some 70 acres within the main woods area is designated as a Natural Area. This designation places these stands in a preservation status. This area was designated in 1961. Since this time nothing has been done to alter natural process within the Natural Area. Dead or dying trees have only been removed when they pose a hazard to trail traffic and safety.
Occasionally, timber harvests are conducted in areas outside the Natural Area to fulfill specific management objectives. These harvests are used to create areas to support specific educational and research activities.
The following activities are presently registered as in progress in College Woods:
From Campus: From Pettee Hall, walk down Colovos Road and under the railroad trestle. Then take a left, walk along the road until you reach a fork in the road. Look off the road to the right and there is a path -- this is the beginning of College Woods. There is parking in this area, but it is limited to weekends or permit holders. There is a single van accessible spot at this main trailhead (parking still limited to weekends or permit holders).
Public Access/Parking: From Durham town center head southwest on Mill Road. After you cross the bridge over the railroad tracks, you'll see a small pullout on the right with parking for 1-2 vehicles and a kiosk. If parking is not available here there are two more pullouts farther along Mill Road with access to the trail system.
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