Lakes Region, New Hampshire
Some of New England’s most stunning lakes dot the high plateau and foothills just south of the White Mountains. Formed around 12,000 years ago, these waters began attracting settlers in the mid-18th century. Roads and railroads through the area proliferated in the 19th century, opening New Hampshire’s lakes to mass tourism. There’s something for everyone here, from the honky-tonk strand of Weirs Beach to the stately grace of Wolfeboro; from the tranquillity of Squam Lake to the roaring racetrack in nearby Loudon.
Lakes Region Association • Exit 20, Tilton • 603 286 8008
1. Lake Winnipesaukee
Swimmers from across the state love to congregate on the pine-clad beaches of this, New Hampshire’s largest lake. The more daring also race motorboats and compete at waterskiing.
2. Wolfeboro
A resort destination since 1763, when the Royal Governor built a summer home here, Wolfeboro represents the demure, gentrified side of Winnipesaukee. The village is the largest community on the lake.
3. Weirs Beach
Fun-lovers swarm this brassy resort on the west end of Lake Winnipesaukee, where the beach and boardwalk are augmented by fair-ground rides, a water slide, mini-golf, souvenir shops, and all the cotton candy you can eat.
4. M/S Mount Washington
Cruising the 20-mile (32-km) length of Winnipesaukee on this 230-ft (70-m) historic vessel is the most relaxing way to see the lake; and while you relax, you can listen to a running commentary on celebrity homes and natural attractions along the way.M/S Mount Washington • 211 Lakeside Ave., Weirs Beach • 603 366 5531 • open late May–mid-Oct • adm
5. Meredith
Warm-water bass fishing is one of the lures of upscale Meredith, the epicenter of tasteful resort development on Lake Winnipesaukee. Capitalizing on New Hampshire’s lack of sales tax, Meredith is also the lake’s premier shopping destination.
6. Gunstock Mountain Resort
Born as a Depression-era public works project, Gunstock has evolved into a popular family ski area. In the summer, its vast forests make the resort a favorite for camping, hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding.Gunstock Mountain Resort • 719 Cherry Valley Rd., Gilford • 603 293 4341 • open year-round • adm
7. Ossipee
Enjoy the rural pleasures of hiking, blackberry picking, and horseback riding in the quiet country roads around Ossipee, set in a pond-dotted plateau just to the east of Lake Winnipesaukee.
8. Squam Lake
Best known as the loon-haunted lake of the 1981 movie On Golden Pond, Squam is a natural paradise, perhaps best appreciated on a boat tour with a guide from the Squam Lakes Natural Science Center.Squam Lakes Natural Science Center • Rte. 113, Holderness • 603 968 7194 • open daily May–Oct • adm
9. Castle in the Clouds
Tour this stone castle, set on a bluff 750 ft (229 m) above Lake Winnipesaukee. Then hike the 3-hour loop trail of the grounds, or take a brief stroll to a stunning waterfall.Castle in the Clouds • Moultonborough (Rte. 171) • 603 476 5900 • open daily Jun–mid Oct • adm
10. Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad
You never lose sight of Winnipesaukee on summer shoreline excursions between Meredith and Lakeport, with stopovers at Weirs Beach. The railroad also operates weekend fall foliage trips from Meredith or Weirs Beach.Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad • 154 Main St., Meredith • 603 279 5253 • open May–Oct • adm
Motorcycle Week
Motorcycle enthusiasts gather by the tens of thousands in and around Laconia during mid-June for the adrenaline-charged races, touring, and extreme partying of Laconia Motorcycle Week, an annual event since 1925. Area lodging books up well in advance, so make plans accordingly.
Tip: Catch free concerts on Saturday nights in July and August at Cate Park bandstand in Wolfeboro. Tip: For hearty pub dining with great views of Winnipesaukee, try Patrick’s Pub & Eatery in Gilford.
