Some outdoor enthusiasts eagerly await the end of summer to enjoy their favorite activities. Gone are the tourists, the bugs and the intense summer heat that sometimes makes active outings difficult. New Hampshire comes alive with vibrant fall colors and plenty of outdoor recreation to experience. From camping to guided fishing, here are the best outdoor fall activities to enjoy in New Hampshire.
Go camping at Pawtuckaway State Park through October 31. 192 sites are available, with many offering direct water views. There are bath houses as well as a canoe and kayak launch. If tent camping isn’t your thing, there are five cabins available for camping. Pawtuckaway in the fall is a sight to behold; the trees surrounding the lake are a myriad of brilliant colors and the air smells crisp and clean. There are several options for day hikes that begin at the camping area. Just a few minutes’ drive from Pawtuckaway State Park you’ll find Susty’s Café. Enjoy vegan and organic dishes for both lunch and dinner. The entrees are ample and the service is excellent. For coffee, stop by the food truck Coffee Craving. Located on the side of the road in Lee, it serves up rich, robust coffee—hot and iced—and a variety of delicious baked goods. Stop by on your way to Pawtuckaway State Park.
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Go fishing for bass, tuna, and more out of Portsmouth Harbor or New Castle with Shoal Fly Fishing. Available for group or solo excursions through mid-October, make your reservations soon, as they fill up fast. These guys will help you reel in that big catch you’ve been looking for.
Located in Crawford Notch State Park, Arethusa Falls is the highest waterfall hikers can access in the state of New Hampshire. Trails are maintained by the Appalachian Mountain Club, and are accessible through December 2. This is recommended for hikers with some experience, as up and back will take a good portion of your day. The view from the top and bottom of the falls is scintillating—especially if fall foliage is near peak. For a place to stay when you hike to Arethusa Falls, visit the Notchland Inn. Featuring lots of acreage in Hart's Location on the Saco River, bring your kayak or canoe for another exciting adventure. This is the place to stay in the White Mountains. You'll be at a loss for words when you wake up next to the gorgeous river in the midst of the warm-toned trees.
Each year countless visitors flock to Castle in the Clouds, a huge mountain top estate in Moultonborough. Many of them visit so they can go horseback riding while there. The intricate trail system on the Castle in the Clouds property is perfect for riding, and the company takes groups out on trail rides throughout the fall.
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New Castle, New Hampshire is a small island, and a popular one among kayakers as they can put their kayaks in the water at several points and circle the entire island. It’s a popular place for people to first try kayaking, as the waters are safe and calm. If you want to kayak around New Castle but don’t own a kayak, contact Portsmouth Kayak Adventures. Not only will they rent you all the equipment necessary, they’ll even take you themselves as one of their group expeditions. A stop at the Ice House is a must after kayaking in New Castle. Serving lunch, dinner and delicious ice cream, they offer up some of the best seafood around. Try their famous Seafood Chowder, it's a meal in itself.
Ride your ATV from Fremont to Epping on the Rockingham Recreational Rail Trail, Fremont Branch. 18 miles await outdoor enthusiasts who want to explore the trails throughout the day. Be sure to verify that ATVing is allowed on the trail of your choice! The wooded area through which the trail runs in filled with wildlife. You never know when you will see deer or even a bear. Stock up on outdoor gear before your ATVing adventure at Coyote Creek Outfitters in nearby Rochester. From apparel to maps, they stock just about anything you might need. For something to eat afterwards, or for sandwiches to bring along on your adventure, visit to Hammersmith Sandwich Company. Their artisan sandwiches include rustic breads, wraps and paninis with every filling imaginable. Their soups and salads are delicious too.
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There are several crags in Rumney that are excellent for rock climbing. The Rumney Climber’s Association has raised money to protect the crags and promote their availability to climbers. This is for climbers with some experience or who are climbing with a coach. If you’re a bit of a thrill seeker, this is an excellent option for you!
Several miles of trails and paths through the woods make Odiorne State Park the perfect place for bicyclists. Breathe in the fresh salt air and peddle along the shore, too.
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For an excellent hike that takes about four hours, consider the Welch-Dickey. Part of the Appalachian Trail, it is accessed via Orris Road in Waterville Valley. The ledges and scenery make for beautiful views. This is perfect for intermediate or better hikers. A bathroom facility at the information booth means it’s worth a stop before beginning your hike, as you won’t find one on the trail.
