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Best lake hiking trails in New Hampshire
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Best lake hiking trails in New Hampshire

Want a trail where the views are as smooth as the water’s surface? These lake-side paths will have you reflecting on nature’s beauty—literally—while enjoying the peace and tranquility of the great outdoors.

Here are some great trails to explore in New Hampshire.

Most popular trails

1

Easy

Little Massabesic Lake Trail

Rockingham County, New Hampshire · star 4.0 (27) · 2.0 km · Est. 26 min

2

Difficult

Cannon Mountain and North-South Kinsman Mountain Loop via Lonesome Lake Trail

Grafton County, New Hampshire · star 4.0 (20) · 17.3 km · Est. 1 day 0 hrs

3

Medium

Lily Pond Trail via Surry Mountain Lake

Cheshire County, New Hampshire · star 4.0 (16) · 7.8 km · Est. 1 hrs 53 min

4

Extra Difficult

Mount Madison, Adams, Jefferson Loop

Coos County, New Hampshire · star 4.0 (7) · 21.8 km · Est. 1 day 2 hrs

5

Easy

Dorrs Pond Loop Trail

Hillsborough County, New Hampshire · star 5.0 (27) · 1.7 km · Est. 21 min

6

Easy

Beaver Pond and Spruce Pond Loop via Lynx Trail

Rockingham County, New Hampshire · star 4.0 (29) · 7.4 km · Est. 1 hrs 44 min

7

Difficult

Upper and Lower Lake of the Clouds via Ammonoosuc Ravine Trail

Coos County, New Hampshire · star 5.0 (31) · 7.3 km · Est. 2 hrs 41 min

8

Easy

Franconia Notch Path via Echo and Profile Lake

Grafton County, New Hampshire · star 5.0 (22) · 14.2 km · Est. 3 hrs 8 min

9

Easy

Tower Hill Pond Dam Loop

Rockingham County, New Hampshire · star 4.0 (31) · 6.1 km · Est. 1 hrs 18 min

10

Difficult

Mount Monroe, Mount Washington and Mount Jefferson Loop from Marshfield Station

Coos County, New Hampshire · star 5.0 (25) · 20.3 km · Est. 1 day 1 hrs

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Reviews for lake hiking trails in New Hampshire

Leona Waelchi avatar

Little Massabesic Lake Trail

FjordRockclimber88 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Georgianna Sanford avatar

Cannon Mountain and North-South Kinsman Mountain Loop via Lonesome Lake Trail

PeakviewRockclimber60 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Gov. Shellie Jacobs avatar

Lily Pond Trail via Surry Mountain Lake

WaypointNomad97 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Coralie Reinger avatar

Mount Madison, Adams, Jefferson Loop

WildTrekrunner72 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

E Ft avatar

Dorrs Pond Loop Trail

FireTower¹³X13 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Currently undergoing some construction

Frequently asked questions for hiking trails in New Hampshire

What is the climate like for hiking in New Hampshire?

New Hampshire experiences four distinct seasons, each offering a unique hiking experience. Spring (March-May) is mild but can be muddy due to snowmelt. Summer (June-August) offers the warmest hiking conditions, but staying hydrated is essential.
Fall (September-November), with its mild temperatures and vivid autumn colors, is a favorite among hikers. Winter (December-February) can be challenging due to cold and snow, but it offers serene beauty for well-equipped hikers. Always check the weather before heading out. The New Hampshire State Parks (https://www.nhstateparks.org/) and the Mount Washington Observatory (https://www.mountwashington.org/) provide valuable information.

Do I need a permit to hike in New Hampshire?

Most hiking trails in New Hampshire do not require permits, but certain activities like camping or fishing might. For more details and to obtain necessary permits, it's advisable to check with the New Hampshire Division of Parks and Recreation (https://www.nhstateparks.org/) and the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department (https://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/).

Is wild camping allowed in New Hampshire?

Wild camping in New Hampshire is generally allowed in national forests with some restrictions, while it's limited in state parks to designated campgrounds. Always follow Leave No Trace principles. For camping regulations, refer to the White Mountain National Forest website (https://www.fs.usda.gov/whitemountain) and the New Hampshire State Parks site (https://www.nhstateparks.org/).

Are there mountain rescue services in New Hampshire?

For emergencies during hiking in New Hampshire, dial 911 to reach local authorities who will coordinate with the appropriate rescue services. The New Hampshire Fish and Game Department's Law Enforcement Division also assists with search and rescue operations. Visit their website for more information (https://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/law-enforcement/index.html).

Are there dangerous plants in New Hampshire?

New Hampshire's hiking trails wind through forests of birch, beech, and maple, with beautiful wildflowers blooming in spring and summer. Hikers should be aware of poison ivy in wooded areas. For more information on local flora, the New Hampshire Wildflowers website (https://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/habitat/types.html#:~:text=Appalachian%20oak%2Dpine%20forests%20are,mountain%20laurel%2C%20and%20sugar%20maple.) is a great resource.

What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in New Hampshire?

Hikers in New Hampshire may encounter a variety of wildlife, including white-tailed deer, moose, and numerous bird species. Ticks and mosquitoes are common during warmer months. Black bears are present but seldom seen. Visit the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department's website (https://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/) for detailed wildlife information.

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