The Small-Town State Park in New Hampshire Locals Want to Keep to Themselves

New Hampshire is such a beautiful state, and so much of it is still dominated by nature. As soon as you head out of the big cities, it often feels like you're heading into the great unknown for an adventure—and that's exactly what it's like to discover this small-town state park in New Hampshire.

Located on the banks of the beautiful Sunapee Lake, about six miles from Newport, Mount Sunapee State Park is one of the most unique state parks in the Northeast. You may have visited the area before, as part of the mountain is home to a local ski resort. However, the park has one surprise after another hidden in its 2,893 acres. It's the ninth-largest state park in New Hampshire, but the combination of its remote location and its unique structure means many tourists pass it by. On your next trip, make sure to discover its beauty and opportunities for year-round adventure for yourself!

Why This Small-Town State Park in Hampshire Stands Out

No matter when you go, Mount Sunapee State Park is one of the most peaceful and enjoyable hidden gems in New Hampshire. Located on the banks of the beautiful Sunapee Lake, the park is large enough that it rarely feels too crowded, while still being a short drive from a small town with plenty of lodging, dining, and supplies. It's manageable to visit on a day trip, but many outdoors aficionados spend a few days to see it all!

What You'll Experience at Mount Sunapee State Park

One of the biggest surprises at Mount Sunapee State Park is that the park has radically different landscapes depending on where you go. The mountain dominates the landscape and features one of the best hikes in New Hampshire. However, when you get down to the surface, you'll find a small beach area that offers a secluded haven perfect for swimming and fishing.

Local Tips for Visiting

This is a true all-season state park, as during the summer it's an ideal spot for hiking and swimming. However, the park is at its most peaceful in winter, and the mountain hiking then is truly unreal. This is a very popular spot for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, and you don't even have to enter the ski resort. There is a $5 daily fee for adults to enter the park, with children paying $2.

What to Know Before You Go

The park is typically open for recreation year-round from 6 AM to 10 PM, and most facilities, except the bathhouses and beach, are open in winter. The ski resort is open daily from 7 on weekends and 8 on weekdays until 4:30 in the afternoon, although a day pass is required to access the resort's amenities.

Have you been to this small-town state park in New Hampshire before? If not, many people are calling it one of the best outdoor escapes in New Hampshire, so tell a friend about this article and discover it for yourself! You can see more about the park's amenities and features on the Mount Sunapee State Park website, and make sure to check out the Sunapee Mountain Resort page if you're interested in a skiing adventure! And if New Hampshire is just one of your stops on a larger road trip, pay a visit to Only in Your State's list of the best top-secret nature spots in the USA!