New Hampshire is an outdoorsy state, but it isn’t always the most accessible. Our great hikes and water opportunities can be tricky for people who are older, have young kids, or are a bit less mobile. But no fear! New Hampshire offers plenty of accessible outdoor options that make sure that everyone can enjoy the outdoors in the Granite State. Here are 9 of our favorite accessible outdoor adventures that anyone can do!
- Stare in awe at Beaver Brook Falls.
James Walsh/flickr These cascades in Kinsman Notch are viewable from the parking lot, giving everyone access to the stunning views that usually only hikers can access.
- Make it to the top of Mount Washington.
Ppdiorama/flickr The tallest mountain in New England is also one of the most accessible. You can drive to the summit or take the Cog Railway. That means that anyone – regardless of their physical health – can take in sights from the top of the region.
- Go on a whale watch.
Edward Falkner/flickr Whale Watch day trips offer you the chance to see the splendor of the New Hampshire seashore without having to do too much walking. Plenty of boats leave from Rye and Portsmouth getting you up close and personal with sea life including whales, porpoises, and seals. If fishing is more your fancy, deep sea fishing expeditions are also available.
- Take in the views from The Kancamagus Highway.
Jim Pennucci/flickr This highway that cuts through the heart of the White Mountain National Forest is a wonderful drive and offers breathtaking views of the wilderness. The highway has numerous turnoffs that are a perfect place for a picnic lunch and picture-taking opportunities. If you’re up for a walk, there are numerous trails that cross the highway, leading to waterfalls and other hidden treasures.
- Drive up the New Hampshire Coast.
Kevin Oliver/flickr The New Hampshire coast is short – just about 18 miles – but it is sweet. A drive from Hampton to Portsmouth is beautiful, and plenty of beaches and pull-offs along the way mean that you can make a day of it.
- Have a state park picnic.
Jasperdo/flickr The state parks through New Hampshire protect some of our greatest outdoor spaces, but they are also very accessible. Many state parks offer drive-in camping and picnic spaces along lakes and streams, where you can enjoy the outdoors without too much effort.
- See the lovely lower falls in Albany.
Kimon Berlin/flickr These falls are easily viewable from the parking lot, giving everyone a glimpse into the New Hampshire wilderness right from the roadside.
- Walk the rail trails.
Kelly Jackson/flickr Where railroads once crisscrossed New Hampshire, the state is now covered in rail trails. Many of these rail trails are along rivers or brooks, and the flat surfaces make them easy for most people
- Take a paddle.
Bengarrison/flickr Canoe and kayak trips are great, but those boats can be a bit tippy. Paddle boats, on the other hand, are super accessible, durable, and virtually impossible to tip. Many places around the state rent paddle boats, which are perfect for smooth, calm bodies of water. You just peddle like a bike!
Where is your favorite place to access nature with everyone you love?
James Walsh/flickr
These cascades in Kinsman Notch are viewable from the parking lot, giving everyone access to the stunning views that usually only hikers can access.
Ppdiorama/flickr
The tallest mountain in New England is also one of the most accessible. You can drive to the summit or take the Cog Railway. That means that anyone – regardless of their physical health – can take in sights from the top of the region.
Edward Falkner/flickr
Whale Watch day trips offer you the chance to see the splendor of the New Hampshire seashore without having to do too much walking. Plenty of boats leave from Rye and Portsmouth getting you up close and personal with sea life including whales, porpoises, and seals. If fishing is more your fancy, deep sea fishing expeditions are also available.
Jim Pennucci/flickr
This highway that cuts through the heart of the White Mountain National Forest is a wonderful drive and offers breathtaking views of the wilderness. The highway has numerous turnoffs that are a perfect place for a picnic lunch and picture-taking opportunities. If you’re up for a walk, there are numerous trails that cross the highway, leading to waterfalls and other hidden treasures.
Kevin Oliver/flickr
The New Hampshire coast is short – just about 18 miles – but it is sweet. A drive from Hampton to Portsmouth is beautiful, and plenty of beaches and pull-offs along the way mean that you can make a day of it.
Jasperdo/flickr
The state parks through New Hampshire protect some of our greatest outdoor spaces, but they are also very accessible. Many state parks offer drive-in camping and picnic spaces along lakes and streams, where you can enjoy the outdoors without too much effort.
Kimon Berlin/flickr
These falls are easily viewable from the parking lot, giving everyone a glimpse into the New Hampshire wilderness right from the roadside.
Kelly Jackson/flickr
Where railroads once crisscrossed New Hampshire, the state is now covered in rail trails. Many of these rail trails are along rivers or brooks, and the flat surfaces make them easy for most people
Bengarrison/flickr
Canoe and kayak trips are great, but those boats can be a bit tippy. Paddle boats, on the other hand, are super accessible, durable, and virtually impossible to tip. Many places around the state rent paddle boats, which are perfect for smooth, calm bodies of water. You just peddle like a bike!
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