8 Cool And Calming Hikes To Take In New Hampshire To Help You Reflect On The Year Ahead

During the summer you don't have to twist our arm to get us out into the nature of New Hampshire. It's easy to throw on some boots and hit the trails when you don't have to worry too much about the weather. But when things get chilly it's another story. While the landscape is arguably even more beautiful, it can be daunting to hit the trails when they're surrounded by snow. To help get you out there, here are a few of the best hikes in New Hampshire that are absolutely wonderful in the winter.

1. The Kidder-Cleveland-Clough Trail, New London

This trail provides public access to land protected by New London Conservation Commission. In the summer it heads through wetlands, but in the winter when it's covered in snow it's perfect for skiing and snowshoeing. The route is about 1.5 miles and is great for walkers as well. It's not too challenging, which makes it a great kid-friendly hike in New Hampshire.

Read more about The Kidder-Cleveland-Clough Trail.

2. Odiorne Point State Park, Rye

There are a few different trails to take at this seacoast state park. Each one is simple and easy, with nearly impossible-to-lose trails. Try the Odiorne Point Loop Trail for 3 miles of flat beauty. In the summer you'll find wildflowers, but in the winter the beauty comes from how calm and serene the landscape is.

Learn more about Odiorne Point State Park.

3. Blue Job Mountain Trail, Strafford

If you're looking for scenic hikes in New Hampshire, this is the right place for you! The climax of this short hike is the top, where you'll be treated to views of that go from Mt. Washington in the north, Mt. Monadnock in the west and Atlantic Ocean to the east! The entire route is just over a mile, making this a great hike for those who like big reward for little effort. Expect a wonderful release of tension once you lay eyes on that view.

Check out more about Strafford, New Hampshire.

4. Bear Brook State Park, Allenstown

This beautiful New Hampshire park boasts 10,000 acres of land with tons of beautiful trails to try. Each is well-maintained and perfect for winter sports like snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Or, just strap on your boots to hike and walk!

Find out more about Bear Brook State Park.

5. Lincoln Woods Trail, Lincoln

At nearly 10 miles, the Lincoln Woods Trail is a long one. But it's flat and great for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. It's out and back, so it's easy to follow. But you can easily choose to do just a portion and turn back sooner. If you do that, this will certainly be a calming hike that won't take much time.

Read more about Lincoln, New Hampshire.

6. Franconia Notch State Park Trails

If you've spent some time in New Hampshire, you've likely already visited Franconia Notch State Park. But in the winter things here come alive. The Basin and Flume Gorge Trails are still accessible via short hikes throughout the winter months. And for a truly spectacular experience, head there when the falls have frozen! In winter, these are some of the best easy hikes in New Hampshire.

Read more about Franconia Notch State Park.

7. Diana's Baths, North Conway

The route to one of the most popular waterfalls in the state is relatively flat and just about a half-mile. The best part? In the winter things here get very quiet, which means if you plan things right you could have the trail to yourself. If you go when things are cold, you'll have the opportunity to see the falls in a semi-frozen state. It's breathtaking!

Check out more about Diana's Baths.

8. West Rattlesnake Mountain, Holderness

As one of the most challenging hikes on this list of more leisurely routes, you'll want to plan ahead for this one if you're used to flat walks. While not one of the larger mountains in the state, the two-mile 1,260 footer with a 450-foot vertical gain will take some effort in the snow. But the view of Squam Lake is gorgeous, and qualifies this route as one of the best hikes in New Hampshire!

Find out more about West Rattlesnake Mountain.

Hiking is fun, but if you're craving a different kind of adventure take a winter zip line tour in New Hampshire.