Some of the best hiking trails are in New England. There’s a variety of unique landscapes and some spectacular views. Here are a few options, from scenic walks to more advanced hiking adventures.
A great local hike for those that live in the Boston area, Wachusett Mountain is the tallest point in eastern Massachusetts. It takes around two hours to reach the top, and it has 17 miles of trails through forests, meadows, and ponds. You can enjoy the scenic views from the 2,006-foot peak.
This mountain dominates the skyline of southern New Hampshire, and it’s one of the most frequently climbed mountains in the world. Since it is an isolated mountain, it offers far-reaching views. It is also known for being featured in the writings of Ralph Waldo Emerson and Henry David Thoreau, for those of you who are literature buffs.
A great hike for beginners. There’s a panoramic view from the 34 foot high stone tower at the summit of Haystack Mountain. If you hike the rocky trail to the top, there are spectacular views of the fall foliage. A roadway provides access halfway up the mountain, and then there is a rugged half-mile trail to the top. Allow about half an hour for this walk if you are a beginner hiker.
Mount Agamenticus is close to Ogunquit and Wells. The Mount Agamenticus Conservation Region consists of more than 10,000 acres located within an additional 30,000 acres of conservation land. This mountain is perfect for families because it has a wide path, benches to rest on, and a nature center at the top. There are a variety of trails ranging from easy to difficult.
This hike is not technically a mountain. It is a path in the coastal town of Narragansett, just north of Scarborough State Beach. There are scenic views, and the hike/walk is great for all skill levels. The path is a mile and a half, with the remains of a stone building at the end. The building is an old carriage house that was part of a large estate at one time.
As Vermont's highest mountain, Mt. Mansfield is also the most frequently visited mountain in VT. It gets its name because the summit ridge, when viewed from the east, resembles the profile of a face. The Mansfield Loop Trail is a 7.3 mile heavily traveled trail located near Underhill. The weather on Mount Mansfield can be very different from the lower surrounding areas, which can make it dangerous at times. Hiking Mt. Mansfield is recommended for very experienced hikers.
Remember to always review Safe Hiking Practices before heading out on any hike.
