During this trying time, with the requirement for social distancing and limiting contact with strangers, it’s easy to start feeling housebound and restless. Fortunately, New Hampshire offers possibilities not available in many areas of the country. The natural beauty that surrounds us, whether it be forested mountains, scenic highways, clear, blue lakes, hiking trails, rushing rivers, or the view of the sea, allows us to get out and enjoy a few hours from home, but still allows us to return by the end of a day.
NHTI Boat Launch
If you just like to drive or ride in a car along scenic roads and highways, New Hampshire has an endless variety for you to choose. There are Routes 10 and 12A that run along the Connecticut River valley; Route 9 from Concord to Keene to Brattleboro; Route 302 from Conway to Carroll; and of course, the Kancamagus Highway from Lincoln to Conway. All along these routes are quaint towns, valley vistas, and mountain views.
Or, if you’ve always wanted to see all the covered bridges in the state, you might go to Visit New England - New Hampshire and map out your plan of attack.
View from Mount Israel
If you prefer more strenuous activity, most of New Hampshire’s hiking trails are still open. While you may have to take along a face mask, and try not to intrude on other hikers’ space, you should still be able to enjoy the summer outdoors. The number of possible trails is almost endless, but this might be the time to avoid Mount Major or Cannon Cliff. Take the time to explore new sites such as West Rattlesnake Mountain off of NH-113 or Smarts Brook off of NH-49.
If you would like to go the beach to cool off, New Hampshire ocean and lake beaches are open, with restrictions. Go to the New Hampshire State Park's website to read the latest on how to apply for a reservation and what rules to follow when you get there. It sounds like they’ve done their best to provide access to our beautiful lakes and the inviting ocean.
However you want to do it, New Hampshire still gives you choices on how to get out and feel free again, while remaining as safe as possible during the pandemic. If you’d like more ideas and information, try Visit NH or look at the following electronic resources on the Library’s website:
- In EBSCOhost, you can find the eBook, Deep Travel: In Thoreau’s Wake on the Concord and Merrimack, by David K. Leff
- County Roads of New Hampshire: Drives, Day Trips and Weekend Excursions, by Steve Sherman
- Natural Wonders of New Hampshire: Exploring Wild and Scenic Places, by Suki Casanave.
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