The Connecticut River provides the centerpiece of New Hampshire's Upper Valley, carving a broad path through the northern Appalachian Mountains. Known for its vast outdoor resources, the Upper Valley straddles the border between New Hampshire and Vermont, and is a major recreation destination in both states. The New Hampshire side of the valley is home to excellent fishing, hundreds of miles of hiking trails and countless opportunities for skiing and snowboarding.
Miles and Miles of Trails
- Hikers in the Upper Valley have plenty of trails to choose from, but the Appalachian Trail is by far the most well-known. Stretching 2,180 miles from Georgia to Maine, the Appalachian Trail follows the crests of the Appalachian Mountains, dipping into the Upper Valley as it crosses the Connecticut River and then continuing north into the White Mountains. The trail includes some rough terrain and steep climbs, but it rewards hikers with panoramic views of the valley and the mountains beyond. Thru-hikers on their way north from Georgia are a common sight in summer, but numerous access points make it easy to sample a smaller section of the trail. Trail shelters every few miles provide a place to spend the night on a longer hike. If you're interested in a less strenuous hike, the Northern Rail Trail -- also open to bicyclists -- runs for 60 miles between Lebanon and Boscawen.
History and Culture
- The Upper Valley has a rich history, and you can learn more about it at the Enfield Shaker Museum. The Shakers arrived to the area in the 1700s, seeking religious freedom. The museum is located in the largest stone Shaker house ever constructed, where four families lived during the 19th century and, at one point, farmed 3,000 acres of land. You can also visit the Billings Farm and Museum, home to an authentic dairy farm that operates today just as it did in the 19th century. Even the farmhouse and barns from the 1890s have been restored. For more modern culture, visit the Hood Museum of Art in Dartmouth, home to a rotating schedule of exhibits, or the Lebanon Opera House, which regularly hosts plays and concerts.
Out on the Water
- The Connecticut River is relatively placid and slow-moving, making it perfect for exploring by canoe or kayak. Access points include Ledyard Canoe Club, Bloods Brook and two portages above and below the Wilder Dam. You can launch a larger craft at the E. Wilder Boat Launch, less than half a mile above the dam. Fall is a particularly scenic time to explore the river. As you drift by quiet New England towns and shady hillsides, you can also cast a line in the river. The Connecticut River -- along with smaller tributaries like the Mascoma River and Mink Brook -- provides excellent fishing for walleye, smallmouth bass and trout. A current New Hampshire fishing license is required, or a Vermont license to fish from the opposite bank. Licenses are available at the New Hampshire Department of Fish and Game website.
Winter Adventure
- Recreation in the Upper Valley doesn't end when the leaves fall, and skiing and snowboarding opportunities abound when the snow arrives. There's usually enough snow on the slopes to get things started by early December, and Whaleback Mountain, just east of Lebanon, includes 30 trails for novices and expert skiers alike. Terrain parks and glades are also available, along with lessons and camps. Whaleback Mountain is maintained by the Upper Valley Snow Sports Foundation. The Dartmouth Skiway offers 31 additional slopes on the face of Holt's Ledge and Winslow Ledge. The Northern Rail Trail stays open all winter for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
