Whether it’s shopping at outlet stores or scuba-diving in a glacial lake or riding an ATV, you’ll never run out of things to do when you’re in New Hampshire.
The same can be said of its hiking trails.
New Hampshire offers plenty of hiking spots regardless of skill level. Here, we’ll explore the 10 best hiking trails in New Hampshire.
Top 10 Hiking Trails in New Hampshire
1. West Rattlesnake Mountain (Old Bridle Path, Ridge Trail)
Perfect for beginners, this two-mile hike features stunning views of Squam Lake. You’ll also love the diversity of tree species which includes pine, oak, beech, and hemlock – just to mention a few.
A few notes, keep on the marked trails and strictly no camping. You are also advised not to disturb plants or animals and to always observe proper hiking etiquette.
2. Sweet Trail
Another easy trail, this 4-mile hike located near Durham offers amazing views of forests and wetlands. Best of all, it’s accessible year-round. Plus, if rare and animal species are your thing, you’ll definitely enjoy the Sweet Trail.
Make sure you bring your binoculars and see if you can spot wood ducks, ospreys, Great Blue Herons, egrets, Eastern Bluebirds, and more.
3. Sugarloaf Mountain
If you ask us, the name’s fitting cause the views you’ll get from this 6-mile hike (including Northern Peaks Trail) are very fairytale-like. Take many pictures of Middle Sugarloaf and North Sugarloaf, as well as the beautiful wildflowers in this moderate trail.
4. Mount Willard Trail
Located near Carroll, it’s a 3.2-mile hike that offers the finest view of the White Mountains. You also get a panoramic view of Crawford Notch, which is famous for being the grave of Samuel Bemis, one of the first photographers of the American landscape.
Even though this trail is rated as moderate, you can still take your kids (and dogs) with you so it actually makes for a good family climb.
5. Champney Falls Trail
One of our favorite hiking trails in New Hampshire, Champney Falls Trail is located near Conway and features waterfall views and a chance to hit Mt. Chocorua’s summit (via Brook Trail).
This 3.2-mile hike is for hikers with moderate skill level.
6. Lonesome Lake Trail
There’s nothing lonesome about this trail, especially if you bring your dog with you. As the name suggests, you’ll be rewarded with an awesome view of the lake. You’ll also be treated to views of a yellow birch and beech tree forest, bog bridges, and creeks with this 3-mile hike.
7. Arethusa Falls and Frankenstein Cliff Trail
This difficult trail is located near Bartlett and features one of the most popular waterfalls in the White Mountains. You can stick to the Arethusa Falls Trail if you want to keep it easy but if you want a more challenging hike, continue on to Frankenstein Cliff.
Total distance for this trail is 4.3 miles.
8. Piper Hammond Loop Trail
This 8.2-mile hike is another one of our favorite hiking trails in New Hampshire. Located near Conway, this trail also features a waterfall.
At the start, you can expect an easy hike. As you go on, though, be prepared for your journey to become more challenging. You’ll be rewarded with exciting views of the White Mountains, Carter ledge, and several streams so it’s all worth it.
9. Mount Liberty Trail
Here’s another difficult trail for those who love a challenge. Mount Liberty Trail is a 9.1-mile hike that features views of Mount Bond and the Pemigewasset Wilderness.
Winter hiking is possible but you should always join an organized trip to be safe.
10. Baldface Trail
We’re ending this list with a 9.7-mile difficult trail near Intervale. Expect gorgeous views of the White Mountains, as well as some stream crossings.
This adventure will take you at almost 4,000 feet up, so make sure you don’t forget your camera and take awesome pictures of the scenery.
Want More Hiking Trails in New Hampshire?
We’ve got other listings for the Northeast so do check that out.
You can also share with us your favorite hiking trails and we’ll be sure to add it here.
