There are some absolutely beautiful lakes in New Hampshire. People here may start having lake dreams if they haven’t visited one for a while — longing for that body of water that is absolutely magical to them. Whether you’ve been visiting the same lake for generations or you hop from lake to lake in order to see them all, New Hampshire lakes are absolutely enchanting. Here are a few of the best lakes in New Hampshire for you to experience:

1. Chocorua Lake, Tamworth
Chocorua Lake, Tamworth, NH, USA
Tim Reycroft / Google Reviews
This mile-long lake is small by New Hampshire standards, but the view packs a big punch. The view looking across the lake toward Mount Chocorua is one of the most photographed in New Hampshire. Plus, with no motorized boats allowed, this lake is a little slice of heaven. With several public access beaches, this is one of the best swimming lakes in New Hampshire.

2. Lakes of the Clouds, Mount Washington
Lakes of the Clouds, Sargent's Purchase, NH 03846, USA
Appalachian Mountain Club/flickr
This series of small ponds is located 5,000 feet above sea level on the ridge between Mount Monroe and Mount Washington. When you see their location, you'll understand why these lakes are truly magical. Check out more about this New Hampshire alpine lake, and then go check it out!
3. Pondicherry Wildlife Refuge, Jefferson
Pondicherry Wildlife Refuge, 289 Airport Rd, Whitefield, NH 03598, USA
Mark Nenadov/flickr
This little-known wetland in the middle of the White Mountains is a gorgeous and under-explored lake. Read more about this New Hampshire oasis, and then plan your next visit.

4. Lake Winnipesaukee
Lake Winnipesaukee, New Hampshire, USA
Robbie Shade/flickr
Lake Winnipesaukee is 21 miles long and up to 9 miles wide, making it the largest of the New Hampshire lakes by a long shot. Lake Winnipesaukee has everything you could want — from narrow channels perfect for fishing to large open expanses where the lake is more than 200 feet deep! This is one of the best lakes in New Hampshire, so go visit today!
5. Umbagog Lake, Errol
Umbagog Lake, United States
Catherine Bligh/flickr
This large, shallow lake that straddles the New Hampshire-Maine state line is simply stunning. There are a variety of different environments to explore, and the wildlife, from moose to bald eagles, love to visit as well. It's one of the loveliest New Hampshire lakes, so put it on your bucket list.

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6. Pawtuckaway Lake, Nottingham
Pawtuckaway Lake, Nottingham, NH 03290, USA
Gerald Arzenaro/flickr
Located in the south of the state, Pawtuckaway Lake, also known as Pawtuckaway Pond, is the perfect destination for a day trip or when you just need a quick minute to escape to the lake! Learn more about the lake and Pawtuckaway State Park, and then check it out!

7. Squam Lake, Holderness
Squam Lake Road, Squam Lake Rd, Holderness, NH 03245, USA
Squam Lake Road, Squam Lake Rd, Holderness, NH 03245, USA
Chuck Taylor/flickr
One of the most popular lakes in New Hampshire, Squam was made famous when the hit movie "On Golden Pond" was filmed here in the 1980s. When you visit, you'll understand why Hollywood chose this lake to represent rural bliss.
8. Echo Lake, North Conway
Echo Lake Road, Echo Lake Rd, Conway, NH 03860, USA
Joe Bar/flickr
Lying just under Cathedral Ledge, this lake and its surroundings come together for a truly magical view. While it gets busy during peak season, Echo Lake is stunning year round. This is one of the most beautiful lakes in New Hampshire, so plan your trip today!
9. Mascoma Lake, Enfield
Mascoma Lake, New Hampshire, USA
Adam Chandler/flickr
Mascoma is a favorite New Hampshire Lake for people in the west of the state. Although it's less busy than others on our list, the lake is large enough to keep you entertained for a day or a lifetime. Read more about this hidden gem, and then pencil in your visit.
10. Lake Sunapee
Lake Sunapee, New Hampshire, USA
Adam Chandler86/flickr
New Hampshire's fifth-largest lake is long and thin, stretching from Sunapee to Newport. The lake is popular in the summer, but also much loved during the winter when the crowds that come to ski Mount Sunapee turn to the lake to ice fish and snowmobile. Check out more on Lake Sunapee and all the fun activities you can do there!
11. Lake Francis, Pittsburg
Lake Francis, New Hampshire 03592, USA
Akshay Bagi / Google Reviews
Lake Francis is one of the lakes that make up the start of the Connecticut River. Because it's so far north, this lake is quieter than many others and the views of wildlife are absolutely stunning. Learn more about this great fishing lake, and then grab your gear and pay it a visit.

Do you agree that these are some of the most beautiful lakes in New Hampshire? Can’t get enough of New Hampshire? Check out these 13 New Hampshire lakes that are simply the best.

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best lakes in New Hampshire

Jessica Bohl | June 14, 2022

What are some best lakes for fishing in New Hampshire?

Some of the best places to go fishing in New Hampshire include:

  • Contoocook Lake
  • Hilton's Point
  • Pemigewasset River
  • Lake Francis

 

With all its amazing lakes, there are some really great fishing spots in New Hampshire. Fishermen tend to keep their prime spots secret, but there are a few well-known places to throw in a line. Lake Francis in the Northern Woods is full of trout, salmon, and large chain pickerel. Hermit Lake in Sanbornton is excellent for largemouth bass and is a pretty quiet fishing lake. Contoocook Lake in Jaffrey is known for catfish, sunfish, and bass. It’s an easy and accessible lake, so it’s the perfect spot for those just starting out on their fishing journey.

What are some scenic hikes with New Hampshire lake views?

Some of the best scenic hikes in New Hampshire with lake views include:

  • Hi-Cannon Trail
  • Elephant Head Trail
  • Ammonoosuc Ravine Trail

 

New Hampshire is known for its epic views and beautiful scenery. Fortunately, there are great hikes that lead to amazing New Hampshire lake views. A favorite trail is the Hi-Cannon Trail in the White Mountain National Forest in Lincoln. This difficult, 5-mile loop trail leads to stunning views of Lonesome Lake. Don’t forget your camera on this hike! For a family-friendly hike, check out Bald Mountain Loop in dePierrefeu-Willard Pond Wildlife Sanctuary in Antrim. This 2.5-mile loop takes you to a gorgeous overlook of Echo Lake. So, grab your hiking gear and check out these trails!

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