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Best lake hikes in Grafton County
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Best lake hikes in Grafton County

Want a hike where the views are as smooth as the water's surface? These lake-side paths will have you reflecting on nature's beauty.

Here are some great hikes to explore in Grafton County.

Most popular hikes

1

Extra Difficult

Appalachian Trail - New Hampshire

Grafton County, New Hampshire · star 4.7 (6) · 232.9 km · Est. 14 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

Extra Difficult

Hancock Notch Lollipop

Grafton County, New Hampshire · star 4.2 (9) · 42.1 km · Est. 3 days

4

Easy

Franconia Notch Path via Echo and Profile Lake

Grafton County, New Hampshire · star 4.6 (22) · 14.2 km · Est. 3 hrs 8 min

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. 10 hrs 22 min

6

Medium

Lonesome Lake Loop via Cascade Brook Trail

Grafton County, New Hampshire · star 4.5 (28) · 9.4 km · Est. 2 hrs 33 min

7

Medium

Bald Knob and Mount Crosby Trail

Grafton County, New Hampshire · star 4.6 (23) · 11.1 km · Est. 3 hrs 15 min

8

Easy

Holderness - Lower Pond Loop Trail

Grafton County, New Hampshire · star 4.7 (17) · 1.3 km · Est. 17 min

9

Difficult

Mount Lafayette via Old Bridle Path Greenleaf Trail

Grafton County, New Hampshire · star 4.5 (32) · 11.8 km · Est. 4 hrs 14 min

10

Difficult

Cotton Mountain Mount Livermore Loop Trail

Grafton County, New Hampshire · star 4.8 (20) · 6.4 km · Est. 1 hrs 57 min

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Reviews for lake hikes in Grafton County

Claire Garcia avatar

Appalachian Trail - New Hampshire

Claire Garcia · reviewed almost 6 years 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

Pearl Wilson avatar

Hancock Notch Lollipop

Pearl Wilson · reviewed over 5 years ago

star star star star star

Mrs. Robby Nicolas avatar

Franconia Notch Path via Echo and Profile Lake

FrostScrambler48 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Calvin Hegmann avatar

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

DriftwoodAlpinist80 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Frequently asked questions for hikes in Grafton County

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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