Fall is in the air! There is no better time to get outside and explore the trails of the Lake Sunapee Region. We’ve rounded up a few favorite short hikes that are packed with autumn color. Looking for more ways to celebrate the season? Check out our full local hiking list and calendar of local events and festivals to plan the perfect fall outing.
Lake Solitude, Mount Sunapee
We suggest a couple of options for accessing Lake Solitude. For a great hike, start from the Andrew Brook Trail on Mountain Road in Newbury. This path leads you to peaceful Lake Solitude, a lily pad speckled pond tucked into the mountain. You can rest by the shore or take a short climb to the cliffs above for a breathtaking view straight down to the water. From there, the Solitude Trail winds gently across the ridge for about 1 mile, bringing you to the summit of Mt. Sunapee.
For an easier way to the vista, take the Summit Express Chairlift from the base of Mount Sunapee to the summit. You’ll enjoy scenic views on the ride up and sweeping panoramas from the top. From there, it’s about a 1-mile trek to the overlook of Lake Solitude. Be sure to check Mount Sunapee’s operating schedule before you go.
Clark Lookout, New London
Clark Lookout in New London is a short, family-friendly hike with big rewards. The trail is less than a mile round trip, when you reach the top, you will be treated to a spectacular overlook of Lake Sunapee and Mount Sunapee. Along the way, you will pass a kiosk with information about the history of the trail, a bulletin board, and even a little library box where visitors can borrow or share books. In just about 10 minutes, you’ll reach the open ledge a perfect spot for a picnic, a quiet break, or simply soaking in the sweeping views.
Cocoa's Path – New London
Cocoa’s Path in New London is a great beginner hike that follows the east side of Great Brook and can easily be extended into longer adventures. This section of the Great Brook Trail connects Lakeshore Road to the Bunker Loop Trail and can form a loop using the Pingree Road Connector. You can also connect onto the Bunker Loop, Wolf Tree, and Morgan Hill trails. Cocoa’s Path is a perfect way to explore the Lake Sunapee region.
Bog Mountain, Wilmot
Shhh… Bog Mountain is a hidden gem in the Lake Sunapee region, perfect for a short afternoon hike with big rewards. The most popular route begins from Stearns Road, where roadside parking is limited. The trail heads into the woods before climbing to a ridgeline about half a mile in, where ledges offer the first views south toward Mt. Kearsarge. From there, the path meanders across rocky stretches and forested sections before a final scramble up a broad granite slab to the open summit.
At the top, hikers are greeted with wide views in several directions. A granite memorial bench and the tiny “Wilmot Library” add a special touch to the summit area. With wildflowers in spring, traces of snow lingering into early summer, and quiet ledges perfect for a picnic, Bog Mountain feels like a true local secret.
Mount Kearsarge
Mount Kearsarge is one of southern New Hampshire’s most iconic peaks, offering expansive views from its broad, open summit and historic fire tower. The mountain can be reached from two state parks, each with its own character. From Rollins State Park on the southern side, the Rollins Trail is the easiest and most direct option at just 0.6 miles. It’s perfect for families or those seeking a shorter hike. The northwestern side, offers a more engaging experience with the 2.75-mile Winslow Loop, ascending via the steep Winslow Trail and descending on the longer, more gradual Barlow Trail. This side of the mountain explores extensive ledges, varied terrain, and even passes a small alpine bog.
No matter which way you go, the summit rewards hikers with sweeping views: the White Mountains to the north, the Green Mountains to the west, Mt. Monadnock to the south, and Mt. Sunapee and Lake Sunapee nearby. With its mix of easy and moderate routes, rich natural features, and a summit spacious enough to handle the crowds it often attracts, Mt. Kearsarge truly anchors the region as a must-see hiking destination.
Scenic Driving Tour
Driving Tour Around Lake Sunapee – If you are looking to take in the fall colors at your own pace, we have put together a scenic drive around Lake Sunapee. The route offers plenty of lake views and a handful of fun stops for dining and sightseeing along the way. Have questions or want a few extra recommendations? Just let us know!
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