Miller State Park, Peterborough NH

• 4-star hikes
• 3 to 8 mile options
• Moderate | Gain 810 to 2,170 feet
• Peterborough, NH | Monadnock Region
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The image shows two people sitting on a rocky outcrop at the top of a mountain, overlooking a vast expanse of forested landscape. The sky is clear with some clouds, and the view extends to the horizon, showcasing the natural beauty and vastness of the area.

The best views are from North Pack Monadnock's Cliff Trail.

Established in 1891, Miller State Park is the oldest state-run park in New Hampshire and is named for Peterborough born military leader James Miller. The park surrounds Pack Monadnock, and from its summit a connecting trail leads to North Pack Monadnock, a second peak of similar elevation.

The word "pack" reportedly comes from a Native American word for "little," describing these summits as modest compared to nearby Mount Monadnock, which rises to 3,165 feet and sits about twelve miles to the west. For more trails around North Pack Monadnock, check our separate trail review linked in the Trailspotting Nearby section below.

Trail Options Expand KMZ · Google Earth ·

⬤ 4★ Pack Monadnock Loop 2.7 mi loop, moderate, gain 810 ft
GPX File · AllTrails · Directions GPX?

⬤ 4★ North Park Loop 7.7 mi out & back, moderate, gain 2,165 ft
GPX File · AllTrails · Directions

$ State Park fee

⬤ Pack Monadnock Loop
The most popular route in the park climbs to the summit of Pack Monadnock, where a fire tower opens up a wide northerly view. Birders flock here each fall for the hawk migration, when hawks, eagles and vultures pass overhead during September and October. The summit can also be reached by car, and the same road makes a pleasant walking route for those who'd rather skip the climb.

⬤ North Park Loop
A longer route that follows the same path up Pack Monadnock before continuing onto more of the Wapack Trail. This route adds a second summit at North Pack Monadnock and a walk along a cliff trail to another good overlook near an old rock-fall.

Trail conditions here are typical for New Hampshire, with plenty of rocks and roots underfoot. The ridgeline connecting the two summits offers some smoother, easier stretches. There are a few stream crossings along the way, but since the route mostly follows exposed ridge and summit terrain, muddy or swampy patches are rare. We give this trail four stars for its views and its mix of terrain.

Parking for both routes is available at the Miller State Park lot off Route 101, with the auto road and main trailheads starting nearby.

The image shows a fire lookout tower, which is a tall structure used for spotting and monitoring wildfires. The tower is elevated on a metal framework and has a small enclosed cabin at the top with windows on all sides. The perspective of the photo is from below, looking up at the tower, with green leaves from nearby trees framing the top of the image. The sky is clear with a few clouds, and there is an antenna or communication device visible to the right of the tower.

Chalk up another fire tower! We've now visited them all.

The image shows a forested area with a hiking trail marked by yellow triangular blazes painted on the trees. The trail appears to be rocky and uneven, with visible tree roots and large rocks scattered along the path. The yellow blazes on the trees indicate the trail route, guiding hikers through the forest.

Rocks and roots are common obstacles on many a New Hampshire trail.

External links:
Miller State Park website
Miller State Park at AllTrails

Trailspotting nearby:
4★ Pack & North Pack Monadnock (3-8 mi)
4★ Mason Greenville Rail Trail (9 mi)
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