After a long winter, we’ve finally got the right weather to get outside in New Hampshire. There are lots of ways to do it, but our favorite is this educational center in Walpole. It’s a great way to experience the best of the state, plus it gives an opportunity to learn a little bit about the natural surroundings. Kids and adults of all ages will have a great time.

Distant Hill Gardens came to be in 1979 when Michael Nerrie and his wife Kathy bought land 21-acres of land near the Connecticut River.
Julie T / TripAdvisor
In the ten years following the purchase, they built their home and several other buildings while also creating a vegetable garden, a swimming pond, a Christmas tree grove, and several other beautiful features.
Distant Hill Gardens / Google
In 1990, they planted the first ornamental garden.
Distant Hill Gardens / Google
Today Distant Hill is comprised of 58 acres, including 37 acres in Walpole and 21 acres in Alstead.
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One of the most notable features of the area is Michael and Kathy's 1,800 square foot home. It's heated through solar energy that comes through 250 square feet of south facing glass.
Distant Hill Gardens / Google

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Because this area is a private area, you'll need to plan on visiting during one of their open weekends from spring through the fall. Details of those events can be found below.
defaultS889JC / TripAdvisor
For those looking for a more leisurely trip through the area, there's a 1-mile nature trail open year round, from dawn until dusk.
Distant Hill Gardens / Google
The easy to access trail will take you through one of the most tranquil areas in the state. It's almost entirely located in the town of Alstead.
management / TripAdvisor
The gardens are meticulously cared for and you're likely to see signs of this constant upkeep any time you visit.
Distant Hill Gardens / Google
For a beautiful day outside, plan on a full day's visit to this wonderful state treasure.
Distant Hill Gardens / Google

Distant Hill Garden and Nature Trail hosts Open Garden Weekends which are open to the public on the first and third Saturday and Sunday of the month in May, June, and July. From August to October they’re open on the first Saturday and Sunday. Hours for these weekends are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Distant Hill Nature Trail is open every day, all year round from dawn till dusk. You can learn more about the gardens on their website and you can call them at 603-756-4179. Address: 507 March Hill Road, Walpole, NH 03608.

For more fun in the New Hampshire outdoors check out this Rhododendron Reserve in Fitzwilliam.

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