New Hampshire may be small, but it’s full of surprises. Few people would guess, for instance, that an easy hike in West Chesterfield would lead you to the ruins of an abandoned castle, but take this walk along the Ann Stokes Loop Trail and that’s exactly what you’ll find! Take the time to explore this mysterious spot – we promise, it’s more than worth the effort.

The Ann Stokes Loop Trail in West Chesterfield is about 2.3 miles altogether, and it takes you right into the Madame Sherri Forest, home to the castle that's our destination.
Sarah Thompson/AllTrails
The path is lovely in itself – be sure to stop and admire the scenery, even though we're on a mission on this hike.
harshada sowani/AllTrails

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When the path splits, take a right, and you'll arrive at the castle ruins. Rumors abound about the origins of the castle, but as far as we know the castle dates back to the 1920s when it was built for an eccentric costume designer named Antoinette Sherri.
Jamie Lynn/AllTrails
The ostentatious property soon became a gathering place for the New York City theater elite, who escaped to the Granite State forest in the summers for the wild parties Madame Sherri threw (think "The Great Gatsby," but in a castle in the woods).
Amanda F/TripAdvisor
All things come to an end, though, and for Madame Sherri, that end came when her money ran out. She was forced to abandon her lavish summer home, and it burned to the ground in 1962, leaving only pieces of stonework behind.
Jamie Lynn/AllTrails
When you've had your fill of the castle ruins, head back to your car with a camera roll full of photos and a mind full of wild imagined parties. Don't forget to stop along the way and admire the lovely pond on the trail, too!

Enjoy this video exploring the Ann Stokes Loop Trail, as well as the Daniels Mountain Loop in this video from Matthew Crowner:

There are so many lovely trails in New Hampshire to choose from. But one with an extra special surprise is always fun. You can find the Ann Stokes Loop Trail in West Chesterfield, by the intersection between Gulf and Egypt Roads.

Love a hike with a goal? Check out this trail to the most epic waterfall in New Hampshire.

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More to Explore

More New Hampshire hikes to explore

Chris Muras | May 04, 2023

What are some of the best trails in NH?

 

If you crave rewarding NH hikes, we have a few special ones in mind. Here are a few of the best trails in New Hampshire for your next adventure or leisurely walk through the woods:

  • Hike to Ripley Falls, Bartlett, NH: The waterfall awaiting you on this hike is a bit different than your typical waterfall that plunges over a cliff face. Ripley Falls cascades over a sheet of rock at a 60-degree angle almost begging you to slide down it. The rock pile of giant boulders at the bottom might be a good deterrent though.
  • Echo Lake Trail, North Conway, NH: If you are in the mood for a leisurely stroll, this trail around Echo Lake is delightful. It is less than a mile long so you may want to take a few laps, but the views are incredible. And it's a lovely way to catch up with friends and not be winded while you talk and walk.
  • Pitcher Mountain trail, Stoddard, NH: Another one of our easy hikes in New Hampshire, this trail leads through the woods while giving you stunning views of Pitcher Mountain and the valley below. It isn't a difficult trail at all, so you can bring the whole family to introduce young kids to the joys of nature. The trail is a mile and a half each way for a quiet three-mile hike.
  • Glen Ellis Falls Trail, Gorham, NH: If you love waterfalls that have some real action, Glen Ellis Falls fits the bill. After only about a half mile, you'll discover this fantastic cascade of water splitting the rocks and trees like melting butter and falling into a pool of water.

 

Read more about these wonderful New Hampshire trails and discover a few more hidden gems in this article about 10 scenic hikes through New Hampshire.

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Anne Stokes Loop Trail, Chesterfield, NH 03466, USA