Top 4 Lakes around New London
Best lakes around New London, New Hampshire, offer diverse opportunities for outdoor recreation. This area is characterized by its natural landscape, featuring numerous freshwater bodies. Visitors can explore a variety of lakes, each providing unique experiences for those seeking natural environments. The region's appeal lies in its accessible water features and surrounding natural beauty.
Best lakes around New London
- The most popular lakes is Lake Sunapee, a lake that is the fifth-largest lake entirely within New Hampshire. It offers…
Last updated: June 27, 2026
Lake Sunapee
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
Goose Pond
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Pretty section of Northern Rail Trail (Grafton - Potter Place)
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
Goose Pond is a small freshwater pond in New London, New Hampshire. It is just east of the larger Otter Pond and of the Phillips Memorial Preserve, a small nature preserve with some lovely hiking trails. This is a nice place to be on the lookout for ducks, geese, and other animals as you ride.
0
0
Goose Pond is a small freshwater pond in New London, New Hampshire. It it just east of the larger Otter Pond and of the Phillips Memorial Preserve, a small nature preserve with some lovely hiking trails. This is a nice place to be on the lookout for ducks, geese, and other animals as you ride.
0
0
This is a really pretty section of the Northern Rail Trail, which once upon a time was the railbed of the Boston and Maine Railroad's Northern Line. Now it's a great, unpaved multi-use trail; along this stretch it's built mostly of compacted stone dust.
1
0
It's the fifth-largest lake entirely within New Hampshire, offering a vast expanse of sparkling water and endless opportunities for outdoor recreation. Quaint towns like Sunapee Harbor and Georges Mills dot the shoreline, offering a glimpse into New Hampshire's idyllic charm.
0
0
Lots of ponds, rivers, bridges. Potter Place to Grafton area
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular lakes around New London, New Hampshire?
The most popular lake in the area is Lake Sunapee, known as the fifth-largest lake entirely within New Hampshire. It offers a vast expanse of water for various outdoor activities. Another well-regarded spot is Goose Pond, a smaller freshwater pond ideal for observing local wildlife.
Are there family-friendly lakes in the New London, NH area?
Yes, both Lake Sunapee and Goose Pond are considered family-friendly. Lake Sunapee offers a wide range of recreational opportunities suitable for all ages, while Goose Pond provides a peaceful setting for wildlife observation.
Can I bring my dog to the lakes around New London, NH?
Yes, Lake Sunapee is dog-friendly, making it a great option for enjoying the outdoors with your canine companion. Always ensure your dog is leashed and follow any local regulations.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near the lakes in New London, NH?
The lakes around New London, NH, offer diverse outdoor activities. You can enjoy running on trails like the 'Lake Avenue & Burkehaven Hill Road 5k running loop via Sunapee Lake' or 'Pleasant Lake loop and Elkins Beach'. For cycling, options include the 'Little Lake Sunapee loop' or the 'Goose Pond – Otter Pond loop'. You can find more details on these activities in the Running Trails around New London, Road Cycling Routes around New London, and Cycling around New London guides.
Are there hiking or walking trails near the lakes?
Yes, the area features trails suitable for walking and hiking. The Pretty section of Northern Rail Trail (Grafton - Potter Place) is an unpaved multi-use trail made of compacted stone dust, passing by ponds, rivers, and bridges. Additionally, the Phillips Memorial Preserve near Goose Pond offers lovely hiking trails.
What natural features can I expect to see around the lakes?
Around the lakes, you'll encounter diverse natural beauty. Lake Sunapee offers a vast expanse of sparkling water. Near Goose Pond, you can observe local wildlife such as ducks and geese. The Northern Rail Trail section also features numerous ponds, rivers, and bridges, showcasing the region's aquatic landscape.
What is the best time to visit the lakes around New London, NH?
The lakes are enjoyable throughout the warmer months for water-based activities and hiking. Fall offers stunning foliage, making it a picturesque time for trails. While specific data on the best time to visit is not available, the region's natural beauty makes it appealing across seasons for outdoor enthusiasts.
What kind of recreation is available at Lake Sunapee?
Lake Sunapee, being the fifth-largest lake in New Hampshire, offers a wide array of outdoor recreation opportunities. Its vast expanse of water is perfect for boating, swimming, and other water sports. The surrounding area also features quaint towns like Sunapee Harbor and Georges Mills.
Are there easy walking trails near the lakes?
Yes, the Pretty section of Northern Rail Trail (Grafton - Potter Place) is an unpaved multi-use trail with compacted stone dust, making it suitable for easy walks. Additionally, several running and cycling routes in the area are rated as 'easy', such as the 'Lake Avenue & Burkehaven Hill Road 5k running loop via Sunapee Lake'.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around New London, NH?
Visitors appreciate the diverse opportunities for outdoor recreation and the natural beauty of the area. They particularly enjoy the vastness of Lake Sunapee for its recreational potential and the peaceful setting of Goose Pond for wildlife observation. The multi-use Northern Rail Trail is also a favorite for its scenic route along ponds and rivers.
Most popular attractions around New London
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found your perfect lake around New London? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.
