Outdoor Activities in the Monadnock Region
No matter the season, the Monadnock Region can almost overwhelm with fun and exciting things to do. It is why so many people love to visit and why so many people choose to stay.
While you are here, you will find moments to breathe, draw in new energy, and connect with the world around you. Perhaps it was best put by renowned composer Leonard Bernstein, who, after spending time at an artists’ retreat here, wrote that a “vastness is inherent somehow in this place.”
Whether you decide to lace up your hiking boots, go cycling around the countryside, or enjoy a laid-back afternoon of berry picking, your “playtime” is sure to be memorable. With more than ten state and federal parks in this part of New Hampshire – including Monadnock State Park – you will never run out of gorgeous, natural spaces to explore.
If you love to climb, you cannot miss the mountain. Mount Monadnock itself is the second most-climbed peak in the WORLD. It has over 35 miles of hiking trails and multiple well-traveled routes to the summit originating in towns across the region. Take your pick based on what kind of climb you are looking for, but no matter your approach, you will be astounded by the journey, and rewarded when you reach the top.
On the rocky, open summit, you can see for miles, picking out Boston’s landmarks, New Hampshire’s White Mountains, and Vermont’s Green Mountains on a clear day. You will truly be in awe as you soak in the magnificent landscape, standing where countless hikers have left bootprints before you.
While Mount Monadnock is often considered a main attraction, the “mountain that stands alone” is accompanied by a wide range of scenic destinations. These include expertly groomed trails for cross-country and downhill skiing, as well as an incredible network of rail trails, great for walking, biking, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling.
Paddling the region’s stunning lakes and rivers is also a favorite activity for many. Bring your own gear or rent canoes and kayaks so you can set out on the rippled water and discover the incredibly diverse wildlife that populates this part of New England.
Whether you go by foot, bike, or boat, you will find that being in nature here beneath the shadow of Mount Monadnock makes for a truly unforgettable experience that will have you coming back for more.
