The Most Romantic Valentine’s Day Hike You’ll Find in New Hampshire

Quiet can often be difficult to find, especially in a noisy world where we always have something to do and somewhere to be. Valentine's Day offers the chance to slow down, focus on what's really important in our lives, and spend time with the ones we love. If romance is on the menu this Valentine's Day, start with a stroll on this romantic hike in New Hampshire that's perfect for reconnecting with your love.

Nature promises an idyllic escape no matter the time of the year, but winter transforms the landscape into scenes from a storybook with snow sprinkled on trees, hanging icicles sparkling in the sun, and creeks quietly flowing over blocks of ice. Wander with your love along the water on the short and sweet Rapids via the Purgatory Brook Trail in Lyndeborough.

Tallying just 2.3 miles, the out-and-back trail usually takes less than an hour to complete, and its easy rating makes it fun for kids, too, if you're looking for a family adventure on Valentine's Day rather than a romantic outing. The popular path tends to get busy, so be prepared to run into other hikers and walkers, although you should still find quiet moments for deep conversation and warm embraces.

Use GPS to direct you to the Lower Purgatory Falls parking lot, where you'll find spaces for around a half-dozen cars, and the trailhead to the Rapids via Purgatory Brook Trail. Sturdy hiking shoes will help you better navigate the sometimes rocky terrain and muddy conditions after it rains. Consider using spikes and trekking poles if it's icy and snowy out. Download a map from AllTrails+, as the trail isn't well-marked.

As you follow the path along the water, you'll cross over wooden footbridges, through the woods, and past scenery that's sure to conjure images of your favorite childhood storybooks. Look for roots, some with unique designs at the bottom of towering trees and rocks that double as selfie backdrops. One of the highlights of the trail is, arguably, the waterfall.

The Rapids via Purgatory Brook Trail leads to Lower Purgatory Falls, a spectacular cascade that tumbles 12 feet over snow-powdered rocks. On the coldest days of winter, the falls freeze, and layers of snow blanket the ground. Don't forget your camera to snap photos posing in front of the snowy waterfall, crossing the fairy tale footbridges, and sitting on chiseled rocks.

While the winter scenery transforms the trail into scenes from a storybook, the natural landscapes are just as breathtaking in the warmer months. After your romantic hike on Valentine's Day, plan another visit when the colors paint the landscape as wildflowers blossom, mushrooms bloom, and shades of green return.

Do you have a favorite romantic hike in New Hampshire? We'd love to hear from you. Nominate the trail. Then, if you're on the hunt for more of the best hikes in New Hampshire, head over to All Trails+, which features hiker reviews, photos, and current weather conditions. Then find somewhere nearby your New Hampshire adventure to eat using our new Travel Planner!