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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

Cohos Trail

Coos County, New Hampshire · star 4.4 (27) · 36.2 km · Est. 2 days

2

Difficult

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

Grafton County, New Hampshire · star 4.4 (20) · 17.3 km · Est. 5 hrs 40 min

3

Difficult

Mount Jackson, Mount Pierce and Mount Eisenhower Trail

Coos County, New Hampshire · star 4.4 (25) · 19.1 km · Est. 5 hrs 57 min

4

Difficult

Carter Dome, wildcat Mountain via Nineteen Mile Brook Trail

Coos County, New Hampshire · star 4.6 (26) · 28.4 km · Est. 2 days

5

Medium

Franconia Ridge Trail and Franconia Brook Trail loop via Lincoln Woods Trail

Grafton County, New Hampshire · star 4.6 (29) · 37.4 km · Est. 2 days

6

Difficult

Mount Chocorua via Champney Brook Trail

Carroll County, New Hampshire · star 4.6 (15) · 11.2 km · Est. 3 hrs 21 min

7

Medium

Mount Forest Trail

Coos County, New Hampshire · star 4.5 (10) · 7.3 km · Est. 1 hrs 55 min

8

Medium

Mount Watatic to Barrett Mountain via Wapack Trail

Hillsborough County, New Hampshire · star 4.5 (27) · 28.5 km · Est. 7 hrs 23 min

9

Difficult

Garfield Ridge Trail

Grafton County, New Hampshire · star 4.6 (19) · 22.9 km · Est. 7 hrs 1 min

10

Medium

Smarts Mountain Mount Cube via Appalachian Trail

Grafton County, New Hampshire · star 4.4 (21) · 23.3 km · Est. 6 hrs 53 min

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Reviews for backpacking hikes in New Hampshire

Mable Lynch avatar

Cohos Trail

CragTrailfinder15 · 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 almost 2 years ago

star star star star star

Farah Purdy avatar

Mount Jackson, Mount Pierce and Mount Eisenhower Trail

PioneerWalker44 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Stephanie Stiedemann avatar

Carter Dome, wildcat Mountain via Nineteen Mile Brook Trail

FoothillBirchwanderer65 · reviewed almost 2 years ago

star star star star star

Calvin Hegmann avatar

Franconia Ridge Trail and Franconia Brook Trail loop via Lincoln Woods Trail

DriftwoodAlpinist80 · 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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