Top Hiking Trails Outside of Boston: Breathtaking Views Await
Mount Willard - NH
It's finally spring in New England, and I'm so excited to get back outside and explore!
If you live in the Northeastern USA, chances are you've been hibernating for the past 6 months. But now that the days are getting longer, the weather is warming up, and the snow is melting from the mountain peaks, it's the perfect time to hit the trails and maybe even do some camping. And there's no better place to do that than beautiful New Hampshire, where nature is still untouched and the forests are dense.
New Hampshire, it's just a short 30-minute drive from Boston. However, you may need to drive a bit farther north (to the White Mountains) to find some of the most beautiful trails. In this post, I'll be sharing a few of my favorite trails and recommendations - so keep on reading!
What you need to Pack when you go for a Hike
If there's one thing you take away from this post, let it be this: packing the right items is crucial for any hiker, especially if you're new to hiking
First off, make sure to download the map offline using Google Maps. Chances are, you won't have a cell signal once you're out in the woods (it's close to 2%). I also recommend using the "All Trails" app for picking the trails and mapping out your hike (or any other mapping app) so you're familiar with the route you're taking.
Battery Bank and charger cable, since you will be relying on your phone, your cell phone battery may run out, be prepared to ensure you stay powered up
Bring enough water to stay hydrated- especially when you hike on hot days
Packs some food- especially if you are hiking a long steep trail. I usually pack sandwiches fruits, protein bars, dates, nuts, and jerky.
Ladies, you might want to consider a urination funnel- This might not be for everyone, but you need to be prepared when you don’t have a choice. And don't forget to pack hand sanitizer or dry soap, along with tissues or napkins.
Bag for your waste- make sure to leave to trace
Bug spray
Good hiking shoes. Also, some people may need hiking poles.
For safety, pack whistles and a flashlight. I also would give your location to a friend (this is especially important if you are hiking alone). You never know what might happen
How To pick the Trail
Choosing the right trail is important, especially if you're new to hiking. It's essential to know your limits, so I suggest starting with a short, moderate trail if you're a beginner. The "All Trails" app has different hiking levels (easy, moderate, and hard), and I recommend starting with a moderate and short trail. Once you're familiar with hiking, you can move on to longer trails.
Top Hiking Mountains trails with nice views outside of Boston
Franconia Notch
This easily marked trail is located in Franconia State Park in NH, about 2 hours from Boston. It's ideal for a day trip and suitable for kids.
Mount Monadnock
One of My favorites. I started my hiking journey with it. It is located in NH- less than 2 hours away from Boston and the view from the top is breathtaking, and depending on the trail you choose, it's about a 3.8-mile round trip.
Mount Major
Very beautiful view from the top overlooking Lake Winnipesaukee. it is a moderate hike and about 3.6 miles. It is also a 1.5 from Boston
Beehive Trail (ME)
This is in Acadia National Park- Bar Harbor, Maine. One of my favorite of all time. The view along the hike is breathtaking. overlooking the Beehive Laggon and the ocean. It is about 5 hours from Boston
Mount Willard
Easy, short, and amazing view! located in the heart of the White Mountains in NH, less than 3 hours from Boston. Ideal for a day trip. The trail is 3.1 miles. the beauty of it is indescribable.
Mount Cannon
Hard long but beautiful. Located in NH, less than 2.5 hours from Boston. I have done the “Cannon Mountain Vian Lonesome Lake Trail”. This trail has a lake in the middle of the mountain. It's a 5.7-mile round trip and took us about 8 hours to complete. The elevation is 2,378 with a beautiful view, but I would not recommend this for beginners.
Mount Percival
Fun and moderate hike. 4.8 miles round trip with some fun going up the ladder into a cave in order to reach the top. Amazing view overlooking Squam Lake. About 2 hours from Boston
Easy Hiking Trail in Boston Area
The following are some of Massachusetts reservations and national parks for easy fun outdoor activities
Middlesex Fells Reservation
BluevHills Reservation
Harold Parker State Forest
Wompatuck State Park
Spring is a wonderful time to explore the great outdoors and go hiking in New England. With its beautiful forests, mountains, and trails, New Hampshire is the perfect place to start your hiking journey. But before you head out, make sure to pack the essentials, such as a map, water, food, bug spray, good hiking shoes, and safety equipment. And when choosing a trail, start with a short, moderate one and work your way up. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a beginner, there are plenty of hiking options in New England that will take your breath away. So get outside, embrace the beauty of nature, and happy hiking!
