Get Outside this Winter
Winter hiking and other outdoor recreation is a great way to get outside and get some exercise and vitamin D during the darkest and coldest time of year in northern New England. Here are our winter recreation recommendations to get you outside and moving!
Smith Pond Shaker Forest, Enfield, NH – There are lots of hikes here, but we are recommending starting at the Smith Pond Road parking lot (off exit 15 on I-89) and heading to the pond. 1 mi each way. Provides serene and gorgeous winter views. Snowshoes recommended if there is deep snow. Click here for a map.
Brookmead Conservation Area, Norwich, VT – Back this year – the trails will be groomed for cross country skiing and snowshoeing. Loops through the field offer an easier hike/ski. Trails through the fields (off of the normal trail system) are reserved for cross country skiing and snowshoeing only (and please, no dogs!) Other parts of the trail system are also groomed, namely the farm road that connects with parcel 5, and are multi-use. Click here for a trail map.
The Dismal at Pressey Brook, Hanover, NH – Our new conservation area is open to the public for skiing and snowshoeing. The trails aren’t groomed, so it may be a more rugged trek, but there is a gorgeous, frozen wetland to explore. Find a trail map here.
Lyme Pinnacle, Lyme, NH – This hike is a crowd pleaser during any season. Multiple ways to the top make for harder or easier hikes up. Click here for a trail map.
Bear Pond Conservation Area, Canaan, NH – This one is for the adventurous folks in the group. Explore this wild area on or off trail. This is the best time of year to visit the gorgeous, remote kettle pond as the frozen bog allows for accessibility. Find a map here.
West Windsor Town Forest, West Windsor, VT – Break out those fat bikes or get in line for the ski tow, this recreational area has something for everyone.
Cobb Hill, Hartland, VT – The trail at Cobb Hill is part of the larger Hartland Winter Trails Network. Skiing and snowshoeing only. Click here for a trail map.
My Walden, Sharon, VT – This well kept (privately owned and managed) conserved property is Sharon’s best kept secret. Click here for a trail map.
