Inn At Pleasant Lake Blog

New Hampshire hiking guide compass

IPL New Hampshire Hiking Guide

We are blessed in New Hampshire with opportunities each season to enjoy the great outdoors. Hiking is one of the most accessible activities year round as the number of hiking opportunities seems endless. Whether you’re staying local or adventuring into the White Mountains, nothing compares to stepping into nature and being enveloped by its capacity and beauty.

The New London area has plenty of trails to offer all skill levels. Mount Kearsarge can be seen across Pleasant Lake from our dining room and guest rooms. Kearsarge has a fabulous 360 degree summit. At nearly 3,000 feet, it offers trails for the seasoned hiker and beginners, that’s why we love it. Another great local hike holds a hidden treasure. The hike to Lake Solitude on Sunapee Mountain offers views of Sunapee and the surrounding area. Enjoy the spoils after a 4.8 mile long, moderately rated trail. If you’re looking for something short and sweet, we have just the thing. Less than a mile from our front door you can find the Bunker Loop Trail. Head into the woods and across the river for a short, enjoyable hike.

The White Mountain National Forest is well known, but the pristine beauty of New Hampshire’s natural resources extends far and wide.  The Lake Sunapee Region is known to locals as the hidden gem of the granite state, with a variety of hiking options for all skill levels. The Sunapee-Ragged-Kearsarge (SRK) Greenway is a 75-mile loop of hiking trails that connects Sunapee, Ragged, and Kearsarge Mountains.  In addition, there are close to 30 unique trails that offer fabulous hiking and gorgeous views right here in the New London. The New London Conservation Commission has assembled a helpful resource to make your planning easy. Regardless of your skill level or abilities, we can help you find the perfect excursion to fit your needs and the ideal place to rest and recharge afterwards.

Did you know there are 48 mountains in NH with over 4,000 feet of elevation?  Each of them have a unique way of calling your name, and together they are a chorus of beauty singing out their challenge for you to reach their summits.  Find them all from Adams to Zealand here while planning your next great northern adventure.

Looking for an overnight wilderness experience? Check out the Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC) resources. Imagine sleeping in the clouds at 5,000 feet in the shadows of Mt. Washington’s “rock pile”.  Or perhaps you prefer the solitude of Lonesome Lake up in Franconia Notch?  The best part is that dinner and breakfast are included with your AMC hut stay, so no need to lug all your food or camping gear up into the mountains!  Not looking for all that elevation?  Try the Highland Center in Crawford Notch or Joe Dodge Lodge over in Pinkham Notch.  They provide easy access to wonderful natural features only found here.

Below you’ll find a list of New Hampshire hiking guides. Whether you’re looking for a short walk in the woods or an exhilarating adventure in the greater altitudes, come to central New Hampshire to experience some truly awe-inspiring natural beauty.