Outdoor Adventure Guide

Welcome to the White Mountains region, one of New England’s best areas for outdoor adventure. Below you’ll find curated recommendations for hiking, scenic areas, fishing, climbing, ATV and snowmobile rentals, and four major ski mountains, all located within 40 minutes of Campton.

Please be sure to check local laws and regulations around outdoor activities. Be sure to secure a fishing license or carry the appropriate safety gear for your adventure! Thousands of tourists are rescued from the White Mountains each year, don't join the statistic!

Hiking & Scenic Trails (Within ~40 Minutes)

Welch–Dickey Loop (Thornton, 10 minutes)

One of the most popular hikes in the region. This loop features open ledges, sweeping mountain views, and fun rock scrambles. Great for families with active kids.

Smarts Brook Trail System (Sandwich, 10–15 minutes)

Offers several trail options including easy riverside walking paths, swimming holes, and tougher ascents leading toward the Sandwich Range. Excellent for forest walks, waterfalls, and snowshoeing in winter.

Beebe River Trails (Campton, 5–10 minutes)

A peaceful network of woodland trails perfect for walking, running, or biking. Flat to moderately rolling terrain.

Livermore Trail to Greeley Ponds (Waterville Valley, 20 minutes)

A scenic trail along ponds surrounded by steep mountains. Suitable for beginners and families. Great for fall foliage.

Osceola Mountain Trail (Waterville Valley, 25 minutes)

A challenging hike leading to East Osceola and Mount Osceola. A favorite for experienced hikers seeking big views.

Sculptured Rocks Natural Area (Groton, 30–35 minutes)

A spectacular narrow gorge with smooth sculpted rock walls carved by the Cockermouth River. Great for short walks, photos, and exploring.

Flume Gorge (Lincoln, 25 minutes)

A famous natural gorge with boardwalks, waterfalls, and dramatic granite walls. A must-visit for families or first-time White Mountains visitors.

Lonesome Lake Trail (Franconia Notch, 35 minutes)

A moderate hike up to a beautiful mountain lake with views of Franconia Ridge. Accessible year-round and excellent for winter hiking.

Bolder Path, Pine Flat, and Local Campton Forest Trails

Closer-to-home trails with forest scenery, brooks, and easy terrain. Good for morning walks or light exercise.

Scenic Natural Spots

Blair Bridge & the Pemigewasset River (Campton, 5 minutes)

Historic covered bridge with access to the river for swimming, kayaking, or picnicking.

Franconia Notch State Park (20–30 minutes)

One of the most scenic valleys in New England. Highlights include Echo Lake, the Basin waterfalls, the Old Man viewing area, and multiple trailheads.

Squam Lake Region (Holderness, 25–30 minutes)

Beautiful lakeside landscapes featured in the film On Golden Pond. Great for kayaking, boat tours, and wildlife watching.

ATV, UTV & Snowmobile Adventures

White Mountain ATV Rental (Near Campton)

Offers UTV rentals and guided tours through forest roads, ridgelines, and wildlife areas. Great for both beginners and experienced riders.

DirtVentures ATV / Snowmobile Tours (Lincoln, 20 minutes)

Professionally guided snowmobile and ATV experiences on scenic trails in the heart of the White Mountains.

Out Back Kayak & Snowmobile Adventures (Lincoln, 20 minutes)

Provides year-round motorized tours with a strong focus on family-friendly guiding.

Northern Extremes Snowmobiling (Bretton Woods / Bartlett, 35–40 minutes)

Guided snowmobile tours with groomed trails and mountain scenery. Excellent for groups or first-timers.

Fishing & Water Adventures

Pemigewasset River Access (Campton & Woodstock)

Multiple easy-to-reach fishing points for trout, swimming, tubing, and kayaking.

Mad River (Campton & Waterville Valley)

A favorite for fly fishing, wading, and exploring shallow pools with kids.

Perch Pond & Campton Pond

Local ponds ideal for quiet fishing and wildlife viewing. No motorboats allowed.

Guided Fishing Options

• White Mountain Anglers Guide Service – Fly-fishing specialists offering wading and drift boat trips.
• Hill Country Guides – Fly-fishing in rivers throughout the White Mountains, suitable for beginners and veterans.

Rock Climbing & Adventure Activities

Rumney Rocks (Rumney, 20 minutes)

One of the most famous rock-climbing destinations in the Northeast. Offers climbs for beginners to experts. Some local guide services are available for instruction and equipment.

Loon Mountain Adventure Center (Lincoln, 20 minutes)

Features an indoor climbing wall, Aerial Forest Adventure Park, zipline, gondola skyride, and summit observation tower.

Waterville Valley Adventure Center (Waterville Valley, 20 minutes)

Offers mountain biking, cross-country skiing, fat biking, and lessons depending on season.