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Nature|Beaches, Lakes & Rivers

The 9 Places You Absolutely Must Visit In New Hampshire This Spring

Discover nine must-visit places in New Hampshire during spring, including scenic rail trails, charming waterfront towns, and accessible waterfalls.

Published Apr 4, 2017

Written by 

Kelly A. Burch

After the weekend's big snowfall, April is finally here, which means that sooner or later the weather will catch up with the calendar and it will officially be spring in New Hampshire. As the trees bloom and the mud flows, there are the 9 places you absolutely must visit during the New Hampshire spring.

1. These 8 Charming Waterfront Towns

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art01825/flickr

It may not be warm enough to swim yet, but now that it's spring it's the perfect time to enjoy the beauty of New Hampshire's waterfront towns, from those on the lakes to those on the seacoast.

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2. These 10 waterfalls that you can see without hiking at all

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Allison Richards/flickr

Not everyone can set off into the New Hampshire mountains. Luckily, these ten waterfalls are easily accessible and you can take in their beauty without much of a walk at all!

3. These Ten Scenic Rail Trails

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allkeekat219/all trails

If you prefer to explore the outdoors on a flatter (maybe even paved) surface, the rail trails are perfect for you. These ten trails will take you through the New Hampshire wilderness at a pace anyone can enjoy.

4. These 10 Trails You Have To Take If You Love The Outdoors

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Robbie Shade/flickr

After a long winter inside, it's time to stretch your legs by wandering through New Hampshire's many beautiful mountain trails. Here are a few of the best of get you started.

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5. New Hampshire's Covered Bridge Trail

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cmh2315/flickr

Covered bridges are always charming, even if it's a day when we're dealing with April showers. This trail will bring you to some of the most quaint covered bridges in the state.

6. New Hampshire's Ultimate Waterfall Road Trip

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Dean Goss/flickr

When the snow melts the water starts rushing and New Hampshire's waterfalls are made even more stunning. This trip will take you to all of the best waterfalls in The Granite State.

7. These 9 Incredible Waterfront Restaurants

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The Common Man/facebook

Once the days start warming up outdoor dining becomes an option again, and these restaurants have some of the best dining in the state.

8. This Little Known Outdoor Art Museum

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Andres Institute of Art/facebook

The Andres Institute of Art in Brookline is a totally unique place where you can see world-class sculptures in the New Hampshire wilderness.

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9. The Northern Rail Trail

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Louis B./yelp

This rail trail deserves a special mention because it stretches for an amazing 23 miles of natural wonder.

Happy trekking!

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Nature|Beaches, Lakes & Rivers

The 136-Mile Long Lazy River In New Hampshire Where You’ll Find Us All Summer Long

Published Jul 12, 2024

Written by 

Ken MacGray

I admit I'm not a big swimmer, but I do love being near water! Fortunately, New Hampshire is graced with many wonderful water features like lakes, ponds, rivers, brooks, and waterfalls. Chances are you don't have to go far to visit one of these natural areas of beauty. Once summer arrives and the temps heat up, getting to the nearest water source for some natural cooling is a must. One New Hampshire river, the Saco River, has been a source of recreation for centuries and it will definitely keep you cool.

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New Hampshire's Saco River begins at the tiny Saco Lake in Crawford Notch. This small body of water doesn't look like it could feed such a long river.

A serene lakeside scene with ducks swimming, surrounded by colorful trees and mountains in the background.
Public Domain/Wikimedia Commons

The river travels 136 miles through New Hampshire and Maine, eventually emptying into Saco Bay and then the Atlantic Ocean.

A green bridge spans a river, surrounded by trees and a clear blue sky with scattered clouds.
Doug Kerr/Wikimedia Commons

In between, the river has long been used for industry, transport, and recreation. All along its length are spots where you can enjoy its waters.

A scenic view of a covered bridge over a river, with people swimming and kayaking nearby, surrounded by trees.
Doug Kerr/Wikimedia Commons

The river winds its way downhill from the White Mountains in one of the most scenic areas of the state. Even if you don't take a dip, simply enjoying the views is pleasant.

A scenic view from a train window, showcasing a river, lush greenery, and distant mountains under a blue sky.
Ken MacGray/Google Photos

The Saco is a boater's paradise. There are numerous public access points to put in and paddle or simply float downstream.

Two people kayaking on a calm river surrounded by lush green trees and a clear blue sky.
Saco Canoe Rental Company/Facebook

The river remains a popular site for recreation, attracting thousands of people each summer to its busiest sections. But with a little exploring, you can find quieter, out-of-the-way spots to enjoy.

A serene riverbank lined with trees, featuring smooth stones and a calm waterway under a cloudy sky.
kelsey ferreira/All Trails

As with all large waterways, the Saco River can also be dangerous and should be respected. It is prone to flooding and several major flooding events have occurred in recent years.

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A flooded landscape with trees partially submerged, mountains in the background, and overcast skies.
Ken MacGray/Google Photos

Now that summer has arrived and the heat is on, this New Hampshire river is the place to be! For more information on what there is to do along the Saco River, visit northconway.nh.com. You can also download an environmental fact sheet (PDF) on the river from the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services. Remember to be safe on the water and have fun!

The Saco River is just one river that shapes New Hampshire. Learn about more of our interesting waterways below!

https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/new-hampshire/rivers-nh/

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Nature|Beaches, Lakes & Rivers

5 Lazy Rivers In New Hampshire That Are Perfect For Tubing On A Summer’s Day

Discover alternative rivers in New Hampshire for a relaxing tubing experience away from the crowds.

Updated Jul 3, 2024

Written by 

Rachel

Tubing in New Hampshire is one of the best ways to while away the heat during the sticky months. This is an activity where you can find a little adventure and some relaxation all wrapped up in one. While there are several destinations for tubing in our great state, let's take a look at these five lazy rivers in New Hampshire!

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1. Pemigewasset River

A serene river flows through a landscape of vibrant autumn trees and distant mountains under a clear blue sky.
Robert Linsdell/Flickr

The "Pemi" originates in Franconia Notch State Park and flows south until it merges with the Merrimack River in Franklin. It's a quiet river in the state, and the stretch between North Woodstock and Bristol is especially good for river tubing New Hampshire, with plenty of places to start your journey.

And for an organized tubing trip, consult the Pemi River Campground website where you might find a reason to stay for a while.

2. Baker River

A serene river reflects vibrant autumn foliage along its banks, surrounded by lush greenery and rocky edges.
Robbie Shade/Flickr

Baker River starts at Mount Moosilauke and joins the Pemigewassett - and like the Pemi, it's one of the most fun places to go tubing in New Hampshire. Lots of outfitters offer rentals for both rivers.

Look into renting a tube for the Pemi and Baker Rivers on the Plymouth Ski & Sports website. Canoe and Kayak rentals are also available for the Newfound or Squam lakes in the White Mountains of Central New Hampshire.

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3. Ammonoosuc River

A serene river flows through lush green trees and grass under a clear blue sky.
Jasperdo/Flickr

The Ammonoosuc, a tributary of the Connecticut, flows from Mount Washington to Woodsville. It's another great river for water tubing in New Hampshire - start in Bretton Woods for lovely views.

The staff at the Twin River Campground can start your tubing expedition in the center of Bath, just behind the historic Brick Store. Discover more on the Twin River Campground website.

4. Connecticut River

A serene river flows between lush green trees and rolling hills under a cloudy sky.
Peter Rintels/Flickr

The Connecticut River creates New Hampshire's border in Vermont, and sections of it - like the slow-moving Upper Valley section - are great for tubing. It's an idyllic place and one of the best floats in New Hampshire.

Great River Outfitters in Vermont offers tubing trips in New Hampshire that are available on its website.

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5. Contoocook River

A serene lake surrounded by lush greenery and trees, reflecting clouds and blue sky in the calm water.
Glass_House/Flickr

Starting at the Jaffrey/Rindge border, the Contoocook River river flows all the way down to the Merrimack. Some sections are faster but there are nice peaceful areas for tubing too. Check out the Contoocook River Canoe Co. website for rental information.

Tubing in New Hampshire is the best way to spend a sunny day. Where do you like to float? Shout it out in the comments below!

If you'd like to spend more time outdoors, consider taking one of these summer day trips in New Hampshire. And check out the lovely choices on Vrbo to spend the night.

https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/new-hampshire/nh-day-trips/

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