2023 NH Department of Business and Economic Affairs, Division of Travel and Tourism Development, 100 North Main Street, Suite 100, Concord, NH, 03301. One of the most visited natural wonders in New Hampshire is this beauty in Franconia Notch State Park. Lake Winnipesaukee, Moultonborough But, lucky for us it's right here in New Hampshire! You can also take a break in the leafy Prescott Park, a tranquil area set along the banks of the Piscataqua River, where youll find a collection of beautiful blooming flowers. In addition to rock stairways, theres part of the trail that becomes steep and includes large boulders that require some climbing. Of all of these things to see and do, we love the ones that occur naturally right in our own backyards. OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. Each year, this attraction creates a giant ice fortress that is roughly an acre in size, with its tallest points reaching about 25 feet in height. One of the most popular exhibits is the Tide Pool Touch Tank, where you can actually hold a sea star, green sea urchin, and hermit crab. You can find it in a remote corner of New Hampshire and Maine, about 3.5 hours north of Concord. It also features a huge collection of arcade games and a range of family-friendly live shows. Love New Hampshire? Thank you! Visit NH : Lost River Gorge and Boulder Caves If you want to learn more about the ocean and its marine life, visit the Blue Ocean Discovery Center, where you can explore its large touch tanks filled with crabs and periwinkles. Most travelers come here to get a glimpse of New Hampshires famous fall colors that offer a snapshot of quintessential New England scenery. The boardwalk and stairs are not wheelchair accessible and might not be great for those who aren't physically fit. Not only that, but the area also features a Forest Adventure Trail, treehouse, and suspension bridge. When snow arrives, snowmobiling and ice skating are available. . Beloved for its stunning fall foliage vistas, its picturesque roads lead to charming New England villages and postcard-worthy rural landscapes. Natural Wonders of Washington State - TV Guide Natural Wonders Of Ser.: Natural Wonders of New Hampshire : A Guide The hike to reach it will bring you about 5,000 feet above sea level. Every New Hampshirite is proud of Mount Washington and it's even more beautiful covered in snow. A very big rock just plopped down in the New England woods. One of the citys most historic landmarks is The Palace Theatre, which was built in 1914 and now hosts a range of live performances and plays. Family-owned and operated for 98 years, this outdoor experience offers a chance for you to adventure through boulder caves that were formed during the last Ice Age when a glacier moved over the White Mountains. In addition to its natural wonders, it offers scenic vistas around every corner and historic sites to explore. You'll receive your first newsletter soon! With more than 85 attractions to choose from, including family and kid-friendly rides, water rides, and games, this park has been open for over 100 years. One of the most popular hikes in the region, this 3,165-foot beauty towers 1,000 feet higher than any other peak in the area. However, once standing next to the little canyon or atop the short bridge across, you can see the incredible shapes the river has carved in the rocks. 1999, Trade paperback. OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. All Editions of Natural Wonders of New Hampshire . She shares stories of travel, adventure and anything else that catches her interest. In addition to its beautiful scenery, its an excellent destination for swimming and picnicking and boasts several hiking trails that wind around the lake and connect to Cathedral Ledge State Park. Here, jagged rocks are replaced with smooth arcs and curves that look carefully sculpted by a human hand, but are in fact a geological oddity created by Mother Nature over thousands of years, eversince the end of the last ice age. Along the way, you can marvel at sheer bluffs, steep ravines, cascading brooks and streams, and panoramic mountain vistas. The family-friendly destination appeals to all ages, featuring a wooden boardwalk trail carving through the gorge as it winds its way along the Lost River. Thank you! Nestled in the picturesque White Mountains, North Conway is a hub for skiing in New Hampshire. There are infinite natural wonders in New Hampshire to take your breath away. OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. It has an 80-foot drop that feels huge when looking at it from the bottom. Let us know in the comments so we can check them out! You dont even have to be an art enthusiast to appreciate masterpieces from the likes of world-renown artists like Matisse, Picasso, and Monet. There are no rails here! While the things we find just outside our front doors are pretty fantastic, extra-special are the natural wonders to see in New Hampshire that deserve a little searching. Lakes of the Clouds requires a bit of effort to reach, but if you can do it the payoff is well worth it! Sue there are plenty of gorgeous views in New England, but what you'll see from Cathedral Ledge is pretty special. All together it's about .75 miles. by Henry David Thoreau. But if you live in New Hampshire you don't have to travel far to see wondrous sites. This popular winter attraction is a must-see, featuring interactive castles with intricate details, including LED lights frozen inside the 25 million pounds of ice. Learn more about how to find it here. Dont miss the Shaw Memorial, which is widely considered his masterpiece and took him 14 years to complete. Spring is the best time as the falls will be at their highest and fastest flow levels. And while youre loving this state a little extra here are 7 things that will always make you think about home sweet New Hampshire, no matter where you are! 2023 Atlas Obscura. Sign up for our newsletter and enter to win the second edition of our book. "In this field guide, you'll find those wonderfully rich details on the habitats, wildlife and human history of our preserves." Through this well-written and beautifully illustrated guide, you are invited to discover and explore TNC's 43 nature preserves and conservation areas in New . Take a ferry or your own boat over to Star Island for a lovely day out. There are over 40 communities surrounding the lake, with Weirs Beach, Wolfeboro, and Laconia being some of the highlights. You'll be able to see it. One of New Hampshires most charming seaside towns, Rye offers stunning ocean views and a laid-back atmosphere. Once one of the most important ports of the Colonial Era, this popular day trip from Boston is now one of New Englands most popular port towns. You can drive yourself from May to October or sign up for a guided tour to take in spectacular views into the Great Gulf Wilderness and the Presidential Mountain Range along the way. Discover why Lost River Gorge is one of New Hampshire's greatest natural wonders. Learn more about how to find it. May 10, 2017 - Discover a world of lakes, woods and the wonders of summers past. Find many great new & used options and get the best deals for Natural Wonders Of. Ken Gallager (Public domain) A short walk from a beautiful back road near Newfound Lake, New Hampshire, the wonders of the Sculptured Rocks geological site are not. Theres a reason Native Americans considered the peak sacred. Connected by boardwalks, the granite boulder caves at the base of Hawks Cliff are easily accessible. About five miles from Echo Lake State Park is the Beach Camping Area, a family-friendly spot set along the Saco River with a scenic view of the mountains. If you're looking for things to do in New Hampshire, Lincoln is a lovely town to explore. This natural area is a great spot for fishing, biking around the lake, hiking, and paddling via kayaks and canoes. Water sports are also popular on the lake, with canoeing, kayaking, and swimming being the areas top activities. If you want to get out and explore, the region is known for its variety of memorable hiking trails and natural wonders. Located on the scenic NH Route 16, the Mount Washington Auto Road is one of the most popular driving routes in the northeast. It's also a bit off the beaten path. Only a quick five-minute drive from downtown, its also the areas most accessible mountain. Go Hiking in Franconia Notch State Park, 3. In winter, activities like snowmobiling and ice fishing are available. This half-hour drive will take you to the highest peak in the North East, and you'll enjoy breathtaking views on one of the most scenic road trips in New Hampshire. Surrounding yourself with nature can be the perfect reset, and one of the biggest reasons people come to New Hampshire is for up-close encounters with the states flora and fauna. Learn about whales through Tofus story, a humpback that lived in the Gulf of Maine, and marvel at the 32-foot whale skeleton on display. If you're ambitious there are multiple hiking routes to the top, but it's best to be experienced. New Hampshire might be one of the smaller states in the US, but it packs a punch with its diverse regions and incredible natural beauty. You can even stay overnight in the RV park. Formed by glaciers and the stream that makes its way through the area, this is one natural attraction that's designed for you to see! No purchase necessary. Set in the heart of historic downtown Portsmouth, the Strawbery Banke Museum is a fascinating outdoor history museum. The only thing that will cost you money to see this beauty is the boat ride to get there if you'd prefer to explore it versus simply seeing it from the shore. Located in Laconia, this Funspot Arcade is officially ranked in the Guinness Book of World Records. Sculptured Rocks Natural Area, 251 Sculptured Rocks Rd, Hebron, NH 03241, USA. Along the way, youll have to traverse a variety of terrain. The Moffatt-Ladd House is considered one of Americas finest Georgian mansions (where two signers of the Declaration of Independence lived), while the 1716 Warner House boasts the oldest painted murals in the US. These islands were discovered by the Captain John Smith, of Pocahontas fame. Especially scenic in the fall months, youll have the chance to capture views of the White Mountains, Swift River, Lower Falls, Sabbaday Falls, and the Rocky Gorge. Native Americans considered this peak to be sacred. If you're really determined to see one, you can even take a moose tour. After a fairly easy 1/2-mile hike on a flat, wide gravel path, youll reach the base of the cascading falls and a shallow area. Take a Trip Back in Time at Canterbury Shaker Village, 25. Along the way, you can marvel at the various ice sculptures that artisans spent hours shaping and discover an array of fun photo opportunities! At the top sits Mount Washington State Park, a 60-acre slice of land that borders the White Mountain National Forest. Some houses are adorned with furnishings that represent the era, while others feature cutaway displays and exhibits highlighting the tools that were used to construct them. 1712 Lost River Road, North Woodstock, NH 03262, Discover why Lost River Gorge is one of New Hampshires greatest natural wonders. Weve compiled a list of the best of the best, highlighting the top outdoor excursions, fall foliage viewing spots, and family destinations you should add to your New Hampshire bucket list. The things on this list are special and we think youll agree that were lucky to have them right here! From the Ground Up Starting at $8.50. Sign up for our newsletter and enter to win the second edition of our book. With so much to see and do in New Hampshire, youre spoiled for choice with adventures and activities. In fall, the countryside scenery is picture-perfect with the changing colors of the leaves! At 6,288 feet, Mount Washington is the highest summit in the Northeast, and the crown of the Presidential Range. Other popular attractions in Hampton include the Casino Ballroom, which hosts world-class concerts and comedy acts. Franconia Notch State Park (260 Tramway Drive, Franconia) Discover the trove of wonders hidden . You can also test your bravery by climbing into the Giant Birds Nest, which offers endless views of the lush forest that surrounds it. 1. You can also observe fascinating live animals in the Gulf of Maine exhibit, including lobsters, mussels, dog whelks, and winter flounders. The 1950s-era streamlined passenger recreates the experience of a post-World War II Transcontinental streamlined train, with upgrades including a premier travel class with panoramic views from its Upper Dome. Thompson Falls This 150 foot seven-tiered cascading waterfall is one of the hidden gems of the White Mountains. Are we missing something unusual in New Hampshire? Start your Manchester adventure at the Currier Museum of Art to see a collection of European and American artwork. Located on the grounds of Odiorne Point State Park in Rye, the Seacoast Science Center offers science education through hands-on learning. Visit NH : Discover Wonders Start your visit in the buzzing Market Square, which is filled with boutique shops, cafes, and art galleries. . And an added bonus is when theyre free. Visit a Frozen Attraction at the Ice Castles, 7. Theres a sign next to the road and plenty of parking. Maybe the only missile installed in a public park, this Cold War leftover was one of the first to carry a nuclear warhead. History lovers will find plenty to explore in Portsmouth. 15 Natural Attractions in New Hampshire: Map, Photos, + Reviews Best natural attractions in New Hampshire Plan your next trip here Natural attractions in New Hampshire Geologic Formation Flume Gorge , Lincoln 4.7 Marvel at the natural beauty of Flume Gorge as you enjoy a sel See more Tours from $433 Explore Waterfall Diana's Baths , North Conway What do you get when you cross the most beautiful state in the country with nice weather and lots to see? This picture-perfect road winds across the state and through the heart of the mountainous White Mountain National Forest, offering a number of vistas along the way. The Conway Railroad . PDF Discover and Explore New Hampshire's Natural Wonders: A Field Guide to Ser. What are some of the most beautiful places in New Hampshire? You can find these falls within Crawford Notch State Park in Hart's Location, a tiny town surrounded by the natural beauty of the White Mountains and the White Mountain National Forest. From the summit you can see New Hampshire, Maine, Vermont, New York, Massachusetts and even Canada! The water flows over the rocks and after thousands of years, they've become remarkably smooth. See. The rocks are now smooth and soft, as if by magic. Alternately, the Black Heritage Trail is a self-guided walking tour through the historic center that offers insight into the Black culture of the Colonial and Federal periods. While the lake on its own is a beauty, it's the view of it. Offer subject to change without notice. Come in the off hours, very early or very late, to enjoy without the crowds in the summer. After taking in the views, kids can pan for gemstones or fossils at the Lost River Mining Company. The best hidden gems and little known destinations - straight to your inbox. If youre up for a scenic road trip in New Hampshire, plan a trip on the Kancamagus Highway from Conway to Lincoln. New Hampshire's natural wonders - Pinterest 1994, Trade paperback. Taking about three hours, your round-trip journey includes a chance to marvel at the incredible panoramic views from a deck at the summit. Pick up produce at the seasonal Exeter Farmers Market at Swasey Parkway, then sit and enjoy the tranquil water views by the Squamscott River. Go swimming, picnicking, and seashell collecting at Jenness State Beach, or drive 10 minutes to nearby Wallis Sands State Beach to hike its rocky walking paths and enjoy views of the Isles of Shoals in the distance. This coastal gem has 17 miles of coastline where you can enjoy beautiful beaches, delicious seafood, and easy access to nature. The short 0.25 Ravine Trail takes you to a swimming hole used by Saint-Gardens, while the two-mile Blow-Me-Down Trail ends at a millpond. Long Tavern features craft beer, darts, and pool tables. After you visit the museum, get outside and enjoy the picturesque rocky coastline that defines the 330-acre Odiorne Point State Park. Every weekday we compile our most wondrous stories and deliver them straight to you. Squam Lakes Natural Science Center Stoney Brook Sanctuary Tin Mountain Conservation Center State Parks New Hampshire State Parks Museums Children's Museum of Portsmouth Mount Washington Observatory SEE Science Center Agencies and Organizations Audubon Society of New Hampshire Coastal Conservation Association, N.H. Chapter Department of Fish and . Dianas Baths is currently suffering from over-tourism which is causing parking challenges, overcrowding, and an excess of trash from tourists. To learn more check out. Your email address will not be published. Featuring a tranquil setting, it is surrounded by boulders, ledges, swimming pools, and cascading falls.