New Hampshire may be one of the smaller states in the nation, but its amazing and diverse natural landscapes pack quite a punch. Touristed mainly for the vibrant fall colors in the White Mountains, the state is equally as beautiful during the summertime, when warmer temperatures allow for relaxing, sunny days on the beach and cool hiking days in the higher elevations. From the rugged peaks of the north to the culture-rich cities and slower pace of the coast, New Hampshire is a state that can satisfy every type of traveler and is a worthy addition to your summer bucket list.
Towering above New Hampshire – both literally and figuratively – is Mount Washington, the highest point in the entire Northeast at 6,288 feet. A destination all its own, Mount Washington is known for having some of the most extreme and unpredictable weather in the world. Despite this, the mountain is a popular recreational hotspot.
Those seeking a leisurely route to the summit of the most prominent peak east of the Mississippi can drive the Mount Washington Auto Road or hop aboard the historic Cog Railway, which has been climbing the western slopes since 1869. As they ascend, drivers and riders will watch the landscape slowly transition from dense forest to barren alpine meadows. Meanwhile, more adventurous spirits can take on Tuckerman Ravine, a slope that draws in “spring skiers” – or those who hike up and ski down – and the Lion Head Trail, a 7.7 mile out-and-back pathway.
Once at the top, visitors are rewarded on clear days with jaw-dropping panoramic views across northern New England and as far away as Quebec. But no matter the weather on your ascent, be prepared for conditions to change rapidly. Mount Washington has some truly wild weather, which is studied at the Observatory at the summit.
Whether you’re a serious mountaineer or a casual sightseer, Mount Washington is hands down the most diverse and awe-inspiring peak on the East Coast, delivering an unforgettable experience no matter how you choose to enjoy this New Hampshire icon.
The surrounding White Mountains offer more than just Mount Washington. This region is a summer playground filled with hundreds of hiking trails and scenic drives. Chief amongst them is the Kancamagus Highway, a winding route along the Swift River that connects the gateway towns of Lincoln and Conway. Along the way, there’s a plethora of waterfalls and abundant wildlife, making it the perfect itinerary for those seeking clean air, cool nights and pure natural beauty.
Elsewhere, Franconia Notch State Park offers similar outdoor activities and gorgeous landscapes. Travelers along I-93 can enjoy the dramatic views and up-close mountain encounters as the road winds its way through the park. While this area is generally overrun in the fall, the summer season is a bit more relaxed – highlights include Cloudland Falls and the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway.
Down in the flatter, more populated part of the state, Manchester adds a touch of urban energy to your New Hampshire vacation. With a revitalized mill district, cultural attractions such as the Currier Museum of Art and its vibrant dining scene, the city is the perfect place to explore after a few days in the wild. It also boasts lots of entertainment for kids and teens, from the SEE Science Center to the Aviation Museum of New Hampshire.
Just north of the state’s largest city is its capital of Concord. The city of 45,000 provides a quieter, more historic charm than Manchester. Its walkable downtown is lined with boutiques and local shops in the shadow of the grand New Hampshire State House, a glimpse into the state’s heritage and political heart. It’s a great town to enjoy a slower pace without ever feeling bored.
Lastly, though its coastline stretches for just a meager 13 miles, New Hampshire’s Seacoast punches far above its weight. From the historic streets that tell of the maritime legacy of Portsmouth near the border with Maine, to the bustling boardwalk in Hampton Beach near the Massachusetts line, these oft-overlooked shores have lots to see and do.
Whether its the cloud-piercing peaks of the north, the cityscapes of the south or the hidden coastal gems, New Hampshire offers something unique around every bend. If you’re looking for a underrated destination that blends the outdoors with history and New England charm, you owe it to yourself to explore the Granite State this summer.
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