New Hampshire, known as the Granite State, offers some of the most breathtaking hiking experiences in the northeastern United States. From gentle nature walks to challenging mountain climbs, the state’s diverse landscape caters to hikers of all abilities. Let’s explore seven of the best hikes in New Hampshire, each offering unique scenery and experiences for hikers of different skill levels.
Mount Monadnock – A Classic Climb
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Length: 4 miles round trip (via White Dot Trail)
Mount Monadnock, located in the southwestern part of the state, is one of the most climbed mountains in the world. Its popularity is well-deserved, as its bare, rocky summit offers hikers stunning 360-degree views of the surrounding landscape.
The most popular route, the White Dot Trail, begins at the park headquarters. It starts gradually but quickly becomes steeper as you ascend. Hikers navigate through the forest before emerging onto exposed rock faces. The final stretch to the summit requires some scrambling over boulders, adding an element of excitement to the climb.
On a clear day, the summit offers views of all six New England states. The expansive views make this a perfect spot for a well-earned picnic. Bring plenty of water, as the exposed summit can get hot on sunny days. For those seeking a less crowded experience, consider hiking on weekdays or in the off-season—the mountain’s beauty changes with the seasons, from spring wildflowers to vibrant fall foliage.
Franconia Ridge Loop – A Challenging Alpine Adventure
Difficulty: Challenging
Length: 8.9 miles loop
The Franconia Ridge Loop is often considered one of the best day hikes in New England. This challenging trek takes hikers along the knife-edge ridge of Mount Lafayette, Mount Lincoln, and Little Haystack Mountain, offering breathtaking views of the White Mountains.
The hike begins at the Lafayette Place Campground. Most hikers ascend via the Falling Waters Trail, which features several beautiful waterfalls. The trail is steep and slippery, especially after rain, so suitable footwear is essential.
Once you reach Little Haystack Mountain, you’ll emerge onto the Franconia Ridge above the treeline. This exposed alpine area provides panoramic views in all directions. The ridge walk between the peaks is the hike’s highlight, with the path following the narrow spine of the mountain range.
After summiting Mount Lafayette, the hike’s highest point at 5,260 feet, you’ll descend via the Greenleaf Trail and Old Bridle Path. This loop offers a varied hiking experience, from lush forests to alpine tundra. Due to its exposed nature, this hike should only be attempted in good weather. Check the forecast before setting out, as conditions can change rapidly at higher elevations.
Mount Willard – Spectacular Views for Moderate Effort
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Length: 3.2 miles round trip
Mount Willard in Crawford Notch is an excellent choice for those seeking extensive views without a strenuous climb. This relatively short hike offers one of the best effort-to-view ratios in the White Mountains. The trail begins near the Crawford Notch Depot and climbs steadily through mixed hardwood forest. While consistently uphill, the grade is moderate and suitable for most hikers, including families with children.
The payoff comes at the summit, where hikers have a stunning view of Crawford Notch. The U-shaped glacial valley stretches before you, with Route 302 winding through like a ribbon. This is a perfect spot to relax and enjoy a picnic while soaking in the scenery. This hike is wonderful in autumn when the valley below erupts in a sea of reds, oranges, and yellows. It’s also an excellent option for winter hiking, though appropriate gear is necessary for snowy conditions.
Welch-Dickey Loop Trail – A Moderate Hike with Diverse Terrain
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 4.4 miles loop
The Welch-Dickey Loop Trail in the southern White Mountains offers a diverse hiking experience, including forest walking, rock scrambling, and open ledges with panoramic views. Most hikers tackle Welch Mountain first, as it provides a more gradual ascent. The trail starts in the forest but soon emerges onto open ledges, which provide the first of many sweeping views on this hike. The climb to Welch’s summit involves mild scrambling over smooth granite slabs. From here, you’ll descend slightly before climbing again to reach the summit of Dickey Mountain.
The open ridgeline between the two peaks offers continuous views of the surrounding landscape. The descent from Dickey Mountain is steep in places but well-maintained. As you near the trailhead, you’ll pass through a beautiful birch glade, a refreshing end to your hike. This trail can be particularly challenging in wet conditions, as the smooth rock surfaces can become slippery. It’s best hiked on a dry day when you can enjoy the exposed sections without worry.
Mount Major – A Family-Friendly Hike with Lake Views
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Length: 3.8 miles round trip
Mount Major, overlooking Lake Winnipesaukee, is a popular family-friendly hike that offers stunning views for relatively little effort. The trail is well-maintained and suitable for hikers of most ability levels, including adventurous children. The hike begins with a gradual ascent through mixed forest. As you climb higher, you’ll encounter some steeper sections and areas of exposed rock. Near the summit, there’s a short scramble over boulders, adding a fun challenge for young hikers.
The summit rewards your efforts with panoramic views of Lake Winnipesaukee and the surrounding mountains. On clear days, you can see Mount Washington, New England’s highest peak. This hike is lovely in the fall, when the foliage around the lake creates a colorful patchwork. Due to its popularity, consider hiking early in the day or on weekdays to avoid crowds, especially during peak season.
Arethusa Falls – A Scenic Waterfall Hike
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 3 miles round trip
The hike to Arethusa Falls in Crawford Notch State Park is a must-do for those who love waterfalls. At 140 feet, Arethusa Falls is considered the tallest single-drop waterfall in New Hampshire. The trail begins off Route 302 and follows Bemis Brook through a beautiful forest. The path is well-maintained but does involve some rocky and root-covered sections. A steady climb brings you to the base of the falls, where you’re greeted by the impressive sight of water cascading down a sheer rock face.
For a longer hike, consider combining this trail with the Bemis Brook Trail, which adds about 0.6 miles to your journey but includes views of two additional waterfalls. This hike is enjoyable year-round. In spring, the falls are at their most potent due to snowmelt. In winter, the frozen falls create a stunning ice formation, though winter hiking gear is necessary for safety.
Lonesome Lake – A Serene Alpine Lake Hike
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 3.1 miles round trip
Lonesome Lake, nestled in a glacial cirque in Franconia Notch State Park, offers a quintessential White Mountain hiking experience. The trail provides a good workout without being overly strenuous, making it suitable for many hikers.
The hike begins at the Lafayette Place Campground, and you climb steadily through a beautiful forest. As you gain elevation, you’ll cross several wooden bridges and navigate rocky sections.
Your efforts are rewarded when you reach Lonesome Lake, a pristine alpine lake surrounded by mountains. A loop trail around the lake offers different perspectives of the water and the surrounding peaks, including the dramatic Franconia Ridge. The Appalachian Mountain Club’s Lonesome Lake Hut, located on the shore of the lake, is a great spot to rest and refuel. In summer, you can purchase snacks and drinks here.
This hike is lovely in early fall when the surrounding trees change color, their reflections creating a mirror image on the calm lake surface. Each of these seven hikes offers a unique New Hampshire hiking experience, from challenging mountain climbs to peaceful forest walks.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a beginner looking to explore the outdoors, the Granite State has a trail. Always check weather conditions before setting out, bring appropriate gear, and practice Leave No Trace principles to help preserve these beautiful natural areas for future hikers.