New Hampshire residents love to get outside, and that doesn’t change in the winter. With the right equipment you can hike pretty much any trail in the snow. However, some trails are particularly perfect for winter hiking (or snowshoeing, or cross-country skiing). Whether you’re looking to summit a frozen peak, or for a more relaxing adventure, you’ll find the perfect trail for winter hiking below; here are some of our picks for the best winter hikes in New Hampshire you ought to do ASAP:

1. Diana's Baths, Bartlett
Dianas Baths, Bartlett, NH 03812, USA
Harvey Barrison/Flickr
The series of waterfalls that is a popular swimming hole during the summer becomes a winter wonderland once the temperatures drop. Everyone can enjoy this winter site! Learn more about this winter wonder in this article.
2. Odiorne Point State Park, Rye
Odiorne Point State Park, Ocean Boulevard, Rye, NH, USA
Mark Bonica/Flickr
The beach might not be the first place that springs to mind for a winter hike, but you won't regret exploring our seashore in the snow. And you'll likely have the whole place to yourself! The loop trail is amazing all year.
3. West Rattlesnake Mountain, Holderness
West Rattlesnake Mountain, Center Sandwich, NH 03227, USA
Ryan C./AllTrails
The hike up West Rattlesnake Mountain is short and sweet, but the views from the top are stunning. That vast expanse of snow you see is the frozen Squam Lake spread beneath the mountain. Learn more on the official AllTrails page.
4. Mount Monadnock, Jaffrey
Mount Monadnock, Jaffrey, NH 03452, USA
Whit Andrews/Flickr
Mount Monadnock is one of the most hiked mountains in the world, and there are a steady stream of hikers climbing it during the winter, as well as a staff on hand throughout the winter. The mountain is steep and can be icy, so be sure that you're prepared before setting out on this hike! Click here to learn more!
5. Lincoln Woods Trail, Lincoln
Lincoln Woods Trail, Lincoln, NH, USA
Gary Lerude/Flickr
The Lincoln Woods trail is relatively flat, which makes it perfect for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. You'll journey along the Pemigewasset River, so the trail will be gorgeous the whole time. Read more in this article.

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6. Blue Job Mountain, Strafford
Blue Job Mountain, Farmington, NH 03835, USA
Brian Noyes/AllTrails
A two-mile hike will get you to the summit of Blue Job Mountain and back to your warm and cozy car. The views from the top are beautiful, but the hike isn't very steep, making it perfect for winter. Whether the snow has fallen or not, Blue Job offers beautiful views over the middle of the state. Click here to visit the official AllTrails page!
7. The Kidder-Cleveland-Clough Trail, New London
Kidder-Cleveland Conservation Land, 71 Pleasant St, New London, NH 03257, USA
mwms1916/Flickr
This two-mile trail passes through wetlands that make for an interesting environment in the winter. The easy journey is perfect for skiiers, walkers or showshoers. Learn more on the official NL-NHCC website.
8. Cannon Mountain, Franconia
Cannon Mountain, Franconia, NH 03580, USA
3rd Eye Photographer/Flickr
For experienced hikers, a trip up Cannon Mountain in the heart of Franconia Notch is the perfect winter expedition. You'll be rewarded with truly amazing views. Read more on AllTrails.
9. Lakes Region Conservation Trust, Center Harbor
Lakes Region Conservation Trust, 156 Dane Rd, Center Harbor, NH 03226, USA
billandkent/Flickr
The Lakes Region Conservation Trust maintains beautiful trails that will take you to the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee and beyond. Check out the official website for more information about the Trust.
10. Mount Washington, Gorham
Mount Washington Auto Road, Mt Washington Auto Rd, New Hampshire, USA
Russel Toris/Flickr
Only the most experienced hikers in the world can summit Mount Washington during the winter. You must be prepared for weather changes and even avalanches. But the rewards are simply amazing. You could also drive it.

Looking for more winter fun in New Hampshire? Check out this winter adventure that will have you camping in a yurt!

 

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More to Explore

Best Winter Hikes in New Hampshire

Tori Jane | February 03, 2022

Where can I go winter hiking in New Hampshire?  

Winter does not have to be a time during which you never leave the warm comfort of your house. Nope, and most certainly not in beautiful places like New Hampshire! New Hampshire is an awesome place for those who enjoy (or want to enjoy) a good, solid winter hike, and there are plenty of options when it comes to places to get at it. Some of our favorites include gems like Mt. Major, which features absolutely amazing views of Lake Winnipesaukee at the top. Then, there are the trails at Monadnock State Park, which features beautiful, protected highlands, and some of New Hampshire’s most scenic views. Mt. Chocorua is another amazing one that can’t be missed; it’s tough, but it’s worth it, as evidenced by its popularity among the locals. The summit is less than 3,500 feet in elevation, but don’t let that fool you – it's a challenge! Finally, we love Blue Job Mountain, which features just a one-mile hike to the summit and some wonderful views.  

What are some fun winter activities in New Hampshire to do outdoors?  

Like we said – winter can be a blast. There are all the classics to be done in New Hampshire, like skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, festivals, holiday traditions, snowshoeing, and even ice fishing. If you can imagine doing it during winter, you probably can do it in New Hampshire! There are also pretty unique fun things to do outside during winter around here, too, like dog sledding and even zip-lining at Mount Washington Resort! New Hampshire is a winter wonderland for sure; you can’t really go “wrong” even if you simply want to hang out around a cozy bonfire for the entire season. It’s all up to you! For a more complete, well-rounded list of ideas, take a look at this article. The possibilities are endless!  

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