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Best backpacking hikes in New Hampshire
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Best backpacking hikes in New Hampshire

Ready for some outdoor fun? These hikes offer everything you could want for an unforgettable adventure!

Here are some great hikes to explore in New Hampshire.

Most popular hikes

1

Difficult

Mount Washington, Mount Eisenhower and Mount Webster via Saco Lake Loop

Coos County, New Hampshire · star 4.5 (20) · 30.2 km · Est. 2 days

2

Difficult

Belknap Mountain and Gunstock Mountain Trail Loop

Belknap County, New Hampshire · star 4.4 (28) · 4.3 km · Est. 1 hrs 20 min

3

Difficult

North and South Peak Kinsman Mountain Trail via Lonesome Lake

Grafton County, New Hampshire · star 4.6 (25) · 14.9 km · Est. 4 hrs 37 min

4

Medium

Gentian Pond and Dream Lake Loop from North Road

Coos County, New Hampshire · star 4.6 (18) · 16.4 km · Est. 4 hrs 24 min

5

Difficult

Liberty Spring Trail from The Basin

Grafton County, New Hampshire · star 4.6 (24) · 9.1 km · Est. 3 hrs 16 min

6

Difficult

Mount Garfield and North Twin Mountain Loop from Deerfield

Grafton County, New Hampshire · star 4.4 (17) · 27.6 km · Est. 2 days

7

Difficult

Engine Hill and Mount Isolation via Isolation Trail

Carroll County, New Hampshire · star 4.5 (30) · 21.4 km · Est. 6 hrs 9 min

8

Extra Difficult

Mount Quincy Adams and Mount Abigall Adams Loop

Coos County, New Hampshire · star 4.4 (21) · 14.0 km · Est. 5 hrs 8 min

9

Medium

Rocky Branch and Isolation Trail

Carroll County, New Hampshire · star 4.7 (11) · 30.0 km · Est. 2 days

10

Easy

Mountain Pond Loop Trail from Slippery Brook Road

Carroll County, New Hampshire · star 4.7 (27) · 4.2 km · Est. 53 min

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Reviews for backpacking hikes in New Hampshire

Jannet Bechtelar avatar

Mount Washington, Mount Eisenhower and Mount Webster via Saco Lake Loop

AspenRanger84 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Kesha Fadel avatar

Belknap Mountain and Gunstock Mountain Trail Loop

BirchWayfinder16 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Carlee Greenfelder avatar

North and South Peak Kinsman Mountain Trail via Lonesome Lake

WildAspenseeker15 · reviewed almost 2 years ago

star star star star star

Arlie Lakin avatar

Gentian Pond and Dream Lake Loop from North Road

FrostNavigator53 · reviewed almost 2 years ago

star star star star star

Rev. Ronny Dooley avatar

Liberty Spring Trail from The Basin

AspenMapmaster94 · reviewed almost 2 years ago

star star star star star

Frequently asked questions for hikes 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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