There are a lot of great things about spending time in New Hampshire. Just a few examples include the culture of the cities, the history of the small towns, and the people who have made these places so great. In addition to these highlights, the seemingly endless outdoor opportunities offer to keep us busy all year long. From winter to summer to spring to fall, the following scenic hikes in New Hampshire will keep you enjoying nature any time you'd like to enjoy the great outdoors in New England. If you want to know more, read on to learn more about the best hikes in New Hampshire waiting for you to explore throughout the year!

1. January: Thompson Falls Trail, White Mountain National Forest

This beautiful out-and-back trail is just over one mile and offers a simple path with little elevation gain. It's popular in the spring and summer, but don't ignore it in the winter. The snow-covered falls and icy water is a sight worth seeing. You can learn more about exploring the trail in the winter by reading about one of the most scenic hikes in New Hampshire.

2. February: Beede Falls, Center Sandwich

Another one of the best trails in New Hampshire) is heavily trafficked in the warmer months. But, don't sleep on this one in the winter. The out-and-back trail is less than a mile and leads directly to the falls. Learn more about the route by reading more about one of the best hikes in New Hampshire.

3. March: Franconia Notch Recreation Trail, Franconia Notch State Park

This two-mile hike offers some of the best scenery in Franconia Notch State Park. It leads to The Basin, offering frozen waterfall views you won't want to miss out on seeing. Once you fall in love, make plans to visit in the spring, too. You can read more about this scenic hike in New Hampshire before planning your outing.

4. April: Prescott Farm Environmental Education Center, Laconia

As we get closer to spring in New Hampshire the weather can be a bit unpredictable. Snow? Sure! Sun? Sure! Either way, the network of trails at Prescott Farm is the perfect way to learn more about the natural landscape of New Hampshire. Plus, there's some fun history here, too. Learn more about visiting these New Hampshire hiking trails before setting out on your family-fun adventure.

5. May: Rainbow Falls, Walter-Newton Natural Area, Plymouth

In May we often continue to see some colder days mixed in with the warm, but we're still outside looking for fun ways to explore! The 1.6-mile hike to Rainbow Falls offers a reward at the end that's worth the hike. Plus, this one is simple to follow, making it a great option for kids. You can learn more about one of the best trails in New Hampshire before your outing.

6. June: Baldface Circle Trail, White Mountain National Forest

Summer is here and we're all about the hikes that lead to refreshing swimming holes. This one, perhaps the most well-known in the state, is a beautiful 1.6-mile out-and-back route leading to Emerald Pool. Learn more about how to visit one of the best hikes in New Hampshire.

7. July: Diana’s Baths Trail, North Conway

Summer is now in full swing and our adventurous activities are picking up! This 1.3-mile trail is among the most popular in the state for good reason. It leads to a network of waterfalls that are not only beautiful but also offer a chance to cool down with a nice swim. Learn more about the route and the waterfall on one of the most scenic hikes in New Hampshire.

8. August: Heron Point Sanctuary Loop Trail, Newmarket

Not every trail needs to take you to the wilderness and August's trail is a great example. A portion of this 1.2-mile route follows the Lamprey River and provides lovely city views. Discover more about this scenic hike in New Hampshire before setting out on your day of play in nature.

9. September: Mount Willard Trail, Crawford Notch State Park

This 3.2-mile out-and-back trail includes some steep areas, but it's a great one for families who are working to get their kids more comfortable. Even more importantly, the views from the top are incredible. Depending on the weather, September in New Hampshire can already include some lovely foliage, which will be evident on this picturesque New Hampshire hiking trail.

10. October: Lake Massabesic Trail, Lake Park

There's a good chance that fall is beginning to show her true colors by now and that makes getting outside even more compelling. This 3.7-mile hike is a bit longer than some of the others on this list, but as one of the best hikes in New Hampshire, this trail will include lots of fall foliage if you time it right.

11. November: Dixville Notch State Park, Colebrook

In November, we're all about giving thanks for everything. Rather than focusing on one trail in Dixville Notch State Park, we recommend exploring the whole place this year. There are tons of ways to take it all in and many include views like this one. You can find other scenic hikes in New Hampshire. The options are endless.

12. December: The Rocks, Bethlehem

What better way to celebrate December's arrival than with a visit to the one-and-only Christmas Tree Farm in New Hampshire? Come and harvest your tree for the holidays and enjoy the trail that meanders through the property. You can learn more about this New Hampshire hiking trail before tree shopping.

What's your favorite time of year to explore the great outdoors of New Hampshire? What are some trails that we absolutely must experience? Let us know in the comments!

Did you also know that research shows that New Hampshire is one of the safest places in the U.S. too? Take a look and let us know if you agree by commenting below.