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Best lake hikes in New Hampshire
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Best lake hikes in New Hampshire

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 New Hampshire.

Most popular hikes

1

Easy

Beaver Pond and Spruce Pond Loop via Lynx Trail

Rockingham County, New Hampshire · star 4.4 (29) · 7.4 km · Est. 1 hrs 44 min

2

Easy

Wason Pond Loop via Wason Brook

Rockingham County, New Hampshire · star 4.5 (22) · 2.3 km · Est. 29 min

3

Medium

Gunstock Mountain, Belknap Mountain and Piper Mountain Loop

Belknap County, New Hampshire · star 4.5 (24) · 18.5 km · Est. 5 hrs 23 min

4

Easy

Onway Lake West Loop

Rockingham County, New Hampshire · star 4.6 (21) · 3.8 km · Est. 55 min

5

Difficult

Hermit Lake via Tuckerman Ravine Trail

Coos County, New Hampshire · star 4.7 (21) · 7.6 km · Est. 2 hrs 28 min

6

Easy

Onway Lake via Rockingham Recreational Rail Trail

Hillsborough County, New Hampshire · star 4.6 (21) · 33.3 km · Est. 6 hrs 54 min

7

Easy

Sip Pond via Monadnock Recreational Rail Trail Out and Back

Cheshire County, New Hampshire · star 4.4 (17) · 2.5 km · Est. 30 min

8

Easy

Meredith Loop

Belknap County, New Hampshire · star 4.2 (16) · 671 m · Est. 8 min

9

Easy

Hity Tity Brook Loop Trail

Rockingham County, New Hampshire · star 4.3 (14) · 5.1 km · Est. 1 hrs 6 min

10

Easy

Holderness - Lower Pond Loop Trail

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

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Reviews for lake hikes in New Hampshire

Stephen Parker avatar

Beaver Pond and Spruce Pond Loop via Lynx Trail

Sir Scroopynoops · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Easy hike, not much elevation. Beautiful pond. Suhduh

Cher Beahan avatar

Wason Pond Loop via Wason Brook

WildChaser38 · reviewed almost 2 years ago

star star star star star

Grover Hills avatar

Gunstock Mountain, Belknap Mountain and Piper Mountain Loop

StriderMapmaster54 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Rep. Ariel Lind avatar

Onway Lake West Loop

PathSummitscout18 · reviewed almost 2 years ago

star star star star star

Sandy Toy avatar

Hermit Lake via Tuckerman Ravine Trail

AspenPathfinder38 · reviewed over 1 year 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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