Monadnock region is a lovely setting for walking and hiking

Chesterfield Gorge Natural Area

Route 9 Chesterfield, NH Phone: 603-239-8153

This gorge lies deep into the area's bedrock. There are walking paths along the gorge as well as picnic areas. A visitor's center discusses the reasons behind this natural phenomenon.

Fox State Forest

309 Center Road Hillsborough, NH Phone: 603-464-3453

This forest features over 20 miles of trails for hiking, biking, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing.

Greenfield State Park

Route 136 Greenfield, NH 03047 Phone: 603-547-3497

A 401 acre park on Otter Lake offering a beach, swimming, picnic areas, canoeing, fishing, and hiking trails. Wintertime activities include cross-country skiing and snowmobiling. A public campground is available.

Harris Center for Conservation Education

King's Highway Hancock, NH Phone: 603-532-2400

Nature center offering nature programs kayaking, hikes,and walks. Open year-round.

Miller State Park

Route 101 Peterborough, NH Phone: 603-924-3672

This park is the namesake of General James Miller, who was a hero in the War of 1812. Here visitors will enjoy incredible views, hiking, walking trails, and picnic areas. Climbers can head for the summit of Pack Monadnock Mountain, and a scenic roadway also leads to the top.

Monadnock State Park

Route 124 Jaffrey, NH 03452 Phone: 603-532-8862

Home to Mount Monadnock, which rises over 3100 feet, this park is among the most popular in New England with hikers and mountain climbers. There are over 40 miles of trails and a spectacular view of New Hampshire, Vermont and Massachusetts at the mountain's summit. Visitors will also enjoy the winter-time cross-country ski trails, and a public camping area is available all year long. The park also has a store.

Pisgah State Park

Off Route 63 Chesterfield, NH Phone: 603-239-8153

13,500 acres of undeveloped wilderness offers visitors a chance to explore New Hampshire's outdoors. Trails for hiking and mountain biking are available, as well as hunting areas, and fishing areas. Wintertime offers cross-country ski trails and snowmobile trails.

Pisgah State Park

Off Route 63 Chesterfield, NH Phone: 603-239-8153

13,500 acres of undeveloped wilderness offers visitors a chance to explore New Hampshire's outdoors. Trails for hiking and mountain biking are available, as well as hunting areas, and fishing areas. Wintertime offers cross-country ski trails and snowmobile trails.

Rhododendron State Park

Route 119 West Fitzwilliam, NH 03447 Phone: 603-532-8862

Rhododendron State Park is named after the 16-acre grove of Rhododendron Maximum. A 0.6-mile long universally accessible trail encircles the grove allowing visitors to observe the fragrant blossoms in mid-July. A wildflower trail winds through the forest adjacent to the grove.
Hours: This park is always open for recreation. During the off-season the park is typically not staffed and comfort stations are not available.

Shieling State Forest

Old Street Road Peterborough, NH Phone: 603-431-6774

This small forest (45 acres) has been dedicated to the advancement of nature and conservation education. There are self-guided nature trails, a learning center, and a demonstration of woodlot management. Events are scheduled there throughout the year.

Wapack National Wildlife Refuge

Route 101 Peterborough, NH

This preserve offers ample opportunity for wildlife observation, particularly of migrating hawks. Hiking trails lead past forested land, a bog, a swamp and a rock cliff. These trails are available in the winter for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing as well. Camping and open fires are not permitted.