The warm summer months are finally here. That means it’s time to escape the hectic everyday and head to the Lakes Region for endless fun in the summer sun. The Lakes region in New Hampshire, filled with exciting things to do and an abundance of natural beauty to enjoy, is the perfect getaway destination any time of year. There are 273 lakes and ponds to enjoy and miles upon miles of hiking trails to explore in the Lakes Region this summer. The Lake House at Ferry Point just so happens to be located right on the shores of Lake Winnesquam, marking it as the only lakefront Bed and Breakfast in the entire Lakes Region. Book your stay with us this summer, and enjoy the quiet, restful ambience of New Hampshire’s Lakes Region.
Top Hiking Trails
The hiking trails in the Lakes Region are scenic and varied. Whether you’d rather hike along the shores of lakes like Winnipesaukee, Winnisquam or Newfound Lake, or up through mountains like Mount Major, Belknap Mountain, and Rattlesnake Mountain, the hiking trails are seemingly endless. In total, there are hundreds of miles of hiking trails to explore, many suitable for all levels of experienced hikers. Two of the most popular hiking areas are White Mountain National Forest, and the Belknap Mountain Range.
Belknap Mountain Range
- Belknap Mountain, at 2382 ft. is the highest point in the county, and it’s separation from the White Mountains makes it one of the fifty most prominent peaks in New England. On clear days, you can often see snow-capped Mount Washington in the distance, part of the Ossipee Mountain Range.
- Mount Major is one of the most popular hiking trails in New Hampshire’s Lakes region. It’s not surprising considering you’ll be rewarded with some of the best in southern New Hampshire, especially for the amount of effort required to get to the top. The 2.5 hour long trip is a little more challenging than Belknap Mountain, but the views from the top are extraordinary.
- Gunstock Mountain and Mount Rowe are popular hiking trails. From the parking lot of the Gunstock Mountain Resort, you can easily reach the summit of Mount Rowe. Continuing on the Ridge Trail takes you across ledges and blueberry fields, and into a hardwood growth forest before heading back up onto the ridge and on to Gunstock Summer, where more great views of Lake Winnipesaukee, Mount Shaw and the Ossipee Range, the White Mountain Presidential Range and Mount Washington await.
- The Belknap Range Trail extends from the Gunstock Mountain Resort to Mt. Major parking area using all or part of several other trails along the way. Between the Gunstock Mountain Resort and Mt.Anna, you’ll find easier trails, while what remains is more moderate in difficulty. The area between Mt. Anna and Mt. Major is the most difficult section along the entire trail.
White Mountain National Forest
- The trail to Middle & North Sugarloaf is one of the best hikes in the White Mountain National Forest. A short 2.6 miles brings you to the summit of Middle Sugarloaf, which offers some of the finest views in the White Mountains. Go a little further to North Sugarloaf, and you’ll find excellent views from two different viewpoints
- The views from Mount Carrigain can easily be considered the finest in all of the White Mountain National Forest.
- Mount Washington is New England’s tallest mountain, and is climbed by thousands of well-conditioned each year. The effort to get to the top is extremely challenging, but the views are absolutely fantastic.
- Located just north of Squam Lake is Rattlesnake Trail, where you will certainly find the most quintessentially beautiful view of the lakes from the top. Photographs will never do these views justice, as it must be seen in person.
Though there’s not room to mention them all, there are some truly incredible hiking trails in the Lakes Region of New Hampshire. No matter which you choose, the stunning beauty of this area will surely captivate you, and keep you coming back time and time again. Book your stay at our Lake Winnesquam Bed and Breakfast today.
.
