Many folks I know only recreate outside during the warmer months. I'm too restless to stay inside during winter so I look for places to get out during the winter. That's one of the great things about living in an area where we have all four seasons. There's always something to see and do! No matter the weather or season, Franklin Falls Dam in Franklin is one year-round attraction in NH that is not only an engineering marvel, but also offers recreation opportunities for hikers, bikers, boaters, and more.
Franklin Falls Dam was constructed between 1939 and 1943 along the Pemigewasset River in Franklin by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
The building of the dam forced the residents of the town of Hill to seek higher ground due to rising water levels. Today, the original village is abandoned but can still be visited.
Throughout the 3,900-acre property, an extensive network of multi-use trails run through the forest and are accessible in all seasons.
Outside of winter, the trail system is a haven for mountain bikers through a cooperative effort with the New England Mountain Bike Association.
In winter, cruise miles of trails and wooded roads on cross-country skis throughout the property.
Franklin Falls Dam also features an 18-hole disc golf course that has been redesigned and is open for play.
Hunting and fishing are popular activities on the property. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and its partners stock the reservoir with various fish species including Atlantic salmon.
To learn more about Franklin Falls Dam and to download a trail map, visit the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, New England District website. Be sure to also keep up with the latest updates by following the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Franklin Falls Dam (and Blackwater Dam) on Facebook.
In New Hampshire, the fun isn't limited to just one season. You can camp year-round in Littleton, visit the state's ski resorts when there is no snow on the ground, plus so much more!
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