New Hampshire
- shimonsolof
- Feb 11
- 4 min read
Day 1 - Sunday:
On our way to New Hampshire, we made a stop at Mount Tom in Massachusetts for some much-needed leg stretching. We enjoyed an easy hiking trail through a beautiful wooded area, and after taking in some gorgeous views, we hopped back in the car to continue our journey toward New Hampshire.
Our next stop was at Quechee Gorge in Vermont. Standing on the bridge, 165 feet above the river below, we had a stunning vantage point from which to admire the views.
Finally, we completed our drive and arrived at our hotel in Lincoln, New Hampshire.
Day 2 - Monday:
We started the day with a scenic gondola ride up Loon Mountain. Once at the top, we strolled along the peak boardwalk, soaked in the spectacular views from the observation tower, and explored the many caves scattered across the mountainside. We had a blast climbing from cave to cave while taking in breathtaking mountain views from the cave entrances and nearby lookout points.
For the more adventurous, Loon Mountain also offers a Ninja Obstacle Course for kids, as well as downhill mountain biking trails suitable for all skill levels.
We then made our way to Flume Gorge. The walk along the gorge was stunning, with a boardwalk running alongside the rushing river and waterfalls. We enjoyed the refreshing cool air and mist from the cascading falls, while the scenic views of the surrounding mountains took our breath away. At times, the walkway led us into the beautiful wooded areas around the gorge, offering even more incredible viewpoints.
While the walkway is stroller accessible, be mindful that there are quite a few stairs, so it’s best to bring a light stroller that can be easily lifted.
To end the day, we stopped at Bethlehem Golf Course for a picnic dinner and enjoyed a beautiful sunset.
Day 3 - Tuesday:
We set out for Mount Washington to begin our ascent. The CD they provided kept us entertained and informed as we drove. The drive was scenic, with mountain views all around, and toward the end, we were above the tree line, with cliff edges on either side of us. The views from the peak were absolutely stunning, and the crisp mountain air made it feel perfect. If you plan to spend time at the peak, we recommend bringing a sweatshirt, as it can get chilly.]
Note: If you prefer not to drive your car up the mountain, there is also a train option available.
After visiting Mount Washington, we headed to Glen Ellis Falls for a short hike to the towering falls. The hike was beautiful, and the falls were breathtaking.
Our last stop of the day was at Attitash Mountain. We took the chairlift up to the peak, where we were treated to amazing views of the endless mountain ranges. Attitash also offers a small adventure park, a mountain coaster, and zip lining off the peak.
Please note that these attractions were closed for the 2024 summer season, so be sure to check their website before planning your visit.
We wrapped up the day with a picnic dinner at Crawford Notch State Park, where we enjoyed the stunning lake and mountain views. Our son loved feeding the ducks and playing at the on-site playground.
Day 4 - Wednesday:
We began the day with a short and easy hike to The Basin. The walk was surrounded by beautiful nature, including wooded areas, creeks, and waterfalls. The Basin itself was impressive— it resembled a large, smooth bowl carved out of rock.
Next, we headed to Echo Lake, a large, picturesque lake surrounded by mountains. We rented a paddleboat and enjoyed a peaceful ride on the water, taking in the serene surroundings.
Our final stop was the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway, the first tramway to operate in the U.S. We took the tram up to the mountain and were rewarded with incredible views of mountains across four states and even Canada! We spent some time hiking around the peak to various lookout points, each offering breathtaking views.
After our descent, we began the long drive back home.
Below is a list of some more family-friendly activities nearby. Although we personally didn’t get the chance to enjoy them, they are worth considering for your trip:
Story Land is a charming amusement park perfect for younger children. With whimsical rides and attractions based on fairy tales and nursery rhymes, families can enjoy classic fun with gentle rides, live shows, and a chance to meet beloved characters like Cinderella. It’s an enchanting destination for little ones and their families!
ATV Tours- For a bit of adventure, take an ATV tour through the scenic woods and trails of New Hampshire. These guided tours are suitable for families and allow you to explore the natural beauty of the area in a fun, off-road way. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced rider, there are tours for all skill levels.
A family favorite, Clark’s Trading Post offers a variety of fun activities, including an exciting bear show, a steam-powered train ride, and a museum with a collection of unique exhibits. The park also has a fun “mini-golf” course and a picturesque walking trail. It’s a great place for kids to learn about history while having fun!
Alpine Adventures offers thrilling outdoor experiences for families, including zip lining, off-road tours, and the Mount Washington canopy tour. Their zip line tours provide breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, making for an adrenaline-filled day in the heart of nature.
For families who love the water, kayaking on the Androscoggin River is a fantastic way to explore New Hampshire’s natural beauty. The calm waters and scenic surroundings make it perfect for families to paddle together and enjoy the peaceful river views. Rentals and guided tours are available for all skill levels.
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