The best walks and hikes in Belknap County

The Mount Major via Brook and Boulder Loop Trail offers a quintessential New Hampshire hiking experience, delivering expansive panoramic views of Lake Winnipesaukee from its 1,787-foot summit. You'll ascend via the Boulder Loop Trail, which lives up to its name with fun, steep rock features and boulder scrambles, before descending on the more gradual Brook Trail that follows a stream through birch and moosewood trees. This moderate 3.9-mile (6.3 km) loop with 1096 feet (334 metres) of elevation gain takes about 2 hours and 10 minutes, making it a rewarding half-day outing.

Given its popularity, especially on weekends, plan to arrive early to secure parking at the trailhead. The trail has recently undergone significant renovations in 2024, including new switchbacks and granite steps, designed to improve the hiking experience and sustainability. Be ready for consistently rocky terrain throughout, particularly on the upper sections of the climb and the potentially muddy or eroded parts of the Brook Trail descent.

Mount Major is one of New Hampshire's most beloved and frequently visited hikes, known for its accessible yet challenging nature. At the summit, you'll find the remains of a historic stone hut, adding a touch of character to the stunning vistas. On clear days, you might even spot the distant White Mountains, including Mount Washington, from the peak.

Embark on the Belknap Mountain Trail for a moderate hiking experience that takes you through varied terrain. You'll navigate gravel access roads, rocky paths, and sections covered with roots, all while surrounded by forested slopes. The highlight is reaching the summit of Belknap Mountain, where an active fire tower offers incredible 360-degree panoramic views of the Lakes Region, including Lake Winnipesaukee. This 4.3-mile (7.0 km) route involves an elevation gain of 1813 feet (553 metres) and typically takes around 2 hours and 38 minutes to complete. It's a rewarding journey with diverse natural features.

Planning your hike on the Belknap Mountain Trail is straightforward. Parking is generally available at the Belknap Range Trailhead, providing convenient access to the start of your adventure. While the overall difficulty is moderate, specific routes to the summit can vary; for instance, the Warden's Trail offers a more gradual ascent if you prefer. Consider starting early to enjoy the views without crowds and to ensure ample daylight for your return. Always check local conditions before heading out.

Belknap Mountain is the highest peak in its range, making the summit a significant landmark for the area. From the fire tower, you can often spot Mount Washington on a clear day, highlighting the expansive views this trail offers. The route winds through Belknap Mountain State Forest, providing a true immersion in the region's natural beauty. This trail stands out as one of the best viewpoints in the area, offering a unique perspective on the New Hampshire landscape.

The Mount Major Main Trail offers a quick, rewarding ascent to stunning views over Lake Winnipesaukee and the surrounding New Hampshire landscape. You'll navigate a mix of old logging roads, some steep and eroded, before tackling rocky sections and ledges closer to the summit. The open rock surfaces near the top provide expansive vistas, making the effort worthwhile for this moderate 1.6-mile (2.5 km) hike with 1047 feet (319 metres) of elevation gain.

Planning your visit to Mount Major is best done on a weekday to avoid the significant crowds that flock to this popular trail, especially during peak season. The trailhead is easily accessible, but parking can fill up quickly, so an early start is always recommended. This route typically takes just over an hour to complete, making it a great option for a shorter outing.

Mount Major is renowned for delivering some of the best panoramic views in southern New Hampshire relative to the effort involved. The summit features the historic ruins of "Mr. Phippen's Hut," a stone shelter built in 1925, adding a unique historical element to your hike. It's a fantastic choice for families or anyone seeking a high-reward, moderate hiking experience.

Embark on the Mount Klem and Mount Mack Loop for a moderate hiking experience through varied terrain in Belknap Mountain State Forest. This 6.1-mile (9.9 km) route features some steep and rocky sections as you ascend, gaining 1100 feet (335 metres) in elevation. You can expect to complete the loop in about 3 hours. Along the way, you'll pass the tranquil Round Pond, offering a peaceful spot to pause. From Mount Mack, enjoy wide views to the south and west, while a ledge on Mount Klem provides sweeping panoramas of Lake Winnipesaukee to the north.

The trail is generally easy to follow, but be ready for some steep and rocky parts, especially on the ascents. If you plan your hike during colder months, be aware that snow and ice can cover the path. You will need appropriate gear for winter conditions to safely navigate these sections. Consider starting your hike earlier in the day to allow ample time, especially if you want to linger at the viewpoints.

This loop offers a rewarding journey within the Belknap Mountain State Forest, known for its diverse landscapes. The trail's design ensures you experience both the serene beauty of Round Pond and the expansive vistas from the summits. It stands out in the region for combining a moderate challenge with accessible, panoramic views of the surrounding natural beauty, including the iconic Lake Winnipesaukee.

Embark on the Knight’s Pond Loop, an easy hike spanning 3.1 miles (5.0 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 124 feet (38 metres), typically completed in 1 hours and 20 minutes. The trail begins on a wide gravel path before transitioning to a foot trail that hugs the water's edge, passing through low shrubbery and becoming rocky near the north end. You will enjoy plentiful views across the pond, spot waterfowl, and see beaver lodges, with a notable narrow peninsula extending into the water, dividing the open pond from a marshy wetland.

This accessible loop in Alton, New Hampshire, is considered easy and suitable for beginners, making it a great choice for a relaxed outing. The hike starts conveniently from a designated parking area, leading you directly to the southeast shore of the pond. While the research does not specify seasonal closures or best times to visit, its easy nature suggests it's enjoyable for most of the year when conditions are favorable.

Despite its proximity to towns like Wolfeboro and Alton, the Knight's Pond Conservation Area offers a distinct backwoods feel. The property protects a pristine 31-acre pond surrounded by 307 acres of conserved land, preserving critical wildlife habitat. This area was secured through dedicated efforts by the Lakes Region Conservation Trust and generous donors, ensuring its natural beauty and recreational opportunities remain for all to enjoy.

Embark on the Straightback Mountain and Mount Anna Loop, a moderate hike spanning 4.7 miles (7.6 km) with an elevation gain of 1127 feet (344 metres). You can expect to complete this route in about 2 hours and 28 minutes. As you hike, you will experience varied terrain, from wide logging roads to challenging sections with rock scrambles and bare rock. From Straightback Mountain, you will be rewarded with excellent views of the surrounding mountains, including Lake Winnipesaukee and Mount Major in the distance. The trail winds through lush forests and past blueberry fields, offering a diverse and engaging experience.

Before you set out, be aware that conditions on the Straightback Mountain and Mount Anna Loop can vary significantly. In colder months, you might encounter icy patches, while warmer periods can bring humidity and bugs. Some sections, like the Marsh Crossing Trail, can be wet, and descents may feature slick, rocky slabs. Always wear appropriate footwear and check local conditions before you go to ensure a safe and enjoyable hike.

This route is part of the scenic Belknap Range, known for its rewarding trails. A unique feature along the way is "The Silent People" art installation, located near the base of Straightback Mountain. This adds a distinctive cultural element to your journey through the natural landscape. The trail offers a blend of physical challenge and visual interest, making it a notable option in the region.

Embark on the Mount Shannon Yellow Trail Loop, an easy hiking route that spans 3.0 miles (4.9 km) and involves a manageable 505 feet (154 metres) of elevation gain. You can expect to complete this scenic journey in about 1 hour and 28 minutes, making it a perfect choice for a refreshing outing. The trail offers a diverse landscape, beginning on a gravel road near Lake Eileen before winding into the tranquil woods, where you will encounter charming birch trees and some naturally stony sections. The highlight of your hike is undoubtedly reaching the summit of Mount Shannon, where open ledges provide expansive views of four distinct lakes: Manning Lake, Lake Eileen, Sunset Lake, and Crystal Lake, alongside other prominent peaks within the Belknap Range.

Planning your visit to the Mount Shannon Yellow Trail Loop is straightforward, as the trail is known for its quick access to the summit, making it an excellent option if you are looking for a shorter, yet rewarding, outdoor experience. You can conveniently start your hike from the main lodge area of Hidden Valley Camp, which serves as a clear and accessible entry point to the loop. This ease of access ensures that you can begin your adventure without unnecessary delays, allowing you to maximize your time enjoying the natural surroundings. Consider visiting during daylight hours to fully appreciate the panoramic views from the summit and the varied forest scenery.

This particular loop is nestled within the expansive Griswold Scout Reservation, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunity. The presence of four pristine lakes visible from the summit, coupled with the backdrop of the Belknap Range, makes this trail a notable feature in the region. It stands out for its ability to deliver significant scenic rewards, particularly the wide-ranging lake and mountain vistas, without demanding an overly strenuous effort. The trail's design ensures that you can experience the beauty of the area efficiently, providing a memorable connection with the natural environment.

Embark on the Western Belknap Range Loop for a challenging hike through varied terrain. This difficult route covers 9.7 miles (15.6 km) with a significant 3188 feet (972 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 5 hours and 30 minutes to complete. You will navigate steep ups and downs, including sections over bare bedrock and roots, but your effort is rewarded with incredible panoramic views. From summits like Belknap Mountain and Gunstock Mountain, you can look out over Lake Winnipesaukee, the Ossipee and Sandwich ranges, and even Mount Washington on a clear day. The trail also leads you through mossy woods, where you will discover interesting boulders along the way.

This demanding route requires careful planning and appropriate gear. The terrain includes steep sections, talus slopes, and bare bedrock, which can be particularly tricky when damp or wet. Always check weather conditions before you go, as some parts require substantial care, especially the descent from Belknap Mountain. Ensure you carry enough water and snacks for the full duration of your hike. Parking is available at the trailhead, but it can fill up quickly on busy days.

The Western Belknap Range Loop is situated within the Belknap Mountain State Forest, offering a true immersion into the region's natural beauty. This area is known for its diverse forest ecosystems and geological features, including the prominent bedrock formations you will encounter. The trail provides a unique opportunity to experience the rugged character of the Belknap Range, connecting several of its notable peaks. It stands out as a comprehensive tour for those seeking a strenuous and rewarding day in the New Hampshire mountains.

Embark on the Eastern Belknap Range Circuit, a moderate hike that winds through varied terrain, from open ledges to dense forests and even small marshy areas. As you ascend, you will gain 2063 feet (629 metres) in elevation over 8.3 miles (13.4 km), with panoramic views of Lake Winnipesaukee awaiting you from summits like Mount Mack and Straightback Mountain. This route offers a rewarding experience, typically completed in about 4 hours and 24 minutes, showcasing the natural beauty of the Belknap Mountain State Forest.

When planning your visit, be aware that while the overall difficulty is moderate, some sections can be steep and rocky, making proper footwear essential for your comfort and safety. Parking is generally available at trailheads that access the Belknap Range. There are no specific permits or fees mentioned for this circuit, but always be prepared for challenging conditions and potential overgrown areas, especially on less-traveled paths.

This circuit is notable for traversing multiple peaks, allowing you to experience both popular viewpoints and more secluded parts of the range. On clear days, you might even catch glimpses of the circular Ossipee Range and distant Mt. Washington, adding to the scenic rewards of your journey. It provides a comprehensive exploration of the eastern Belknap Range, highlighting its unique geological features and diverse ecosystems.