Each of New England’s states is home to several enticing options that should appeal to outdoor enthusiasts. Let’s look at some of the top outdoor destinations that visitors should experience across the region.
Acadia National Park, ME
The roughly 45,000-acre Acadia National Park is on the coast of Maine. It is one of the most scenic and untouched natural wonders in the U.S. and the perfect place to experience Maine’s stunning scenery. This vast park has a rocky coast that passes through forests and mountains filled with native wildlife, including bears, moose, and bobcats.
Baxter State Park, ME
Baxter State Park, encompassing nearly 210,000 acres of wilderness, highlights Maine’s unspoiled natural beauty. This massive park in northern Maine features more than 40 peaks and ridges, more than 215 miles of hiking trails to explore, and hundreds of campsites for overnight visitors.
Lakes of the Clouds, NH
Lakes of the Clouds are a set of mountainous lakes based in New Hampshire’s famous White Mountains. The journey to reach these scenic lakes is spectacular. Once at the lakes, many visitors love fishing, paddling out on their calm waters, or relaxing in the one-of-a-kind natural setting.
Franconia Notch State Park, NH
Franconia Notch State Park, found in the White Mountains, might be New Hampshire’s best-known natural destination. This stunning park has excellent hiking and biking trails for visitors to explore its rugged terrain, which includes jagged peaks, vibrant forests, and picturesque waterfalls.
Green Mountain National Forest, VT
Green Mountain National Forest contains just under 400,000 acres of protected land and includes much of Vermont’s renowned Green Mountains. This expansive, protected wilderness is home to an abundance of native species, including bears, moose, and many more. Hiking trails, camping grounds, and waterways allow visitors to immerse themselves in this vibrant atmosphere.
Mount Mansfield State Forest, VT
Mount Mansfield State Forest is a massive, protected natural area encompassing more than 44,000 acres in Vermont with four state parks within. It is home to the highest peak in the state: Mount Mansfield. It is also one of Vermont’s outdoor recreation centers, with two alpine ski resorts within its limits, two nearby Nordic ski centers, hiking trails, lakes, and more.
Mattabesett Trail, CT
If you are looking for a place to experience Connecticut’s natural beauty, Mattabesett Trail is a top option. Part of the New England National Scenic Trail, Mattabesett Trail winds 62 miles across the state and is often undertaken as a several-day journey. The remote trail has caves, rocky hills, and waterfalls that can be explored along the way.
Talcott Mountain State Park, CT
Talcott Mountain State Park comprises more than 500 acres on Talcott Mountain. A scenic and winding trail leads up the mountain to the Heublein Tower. Visitors can explore the former home, now a museum featuring local history, and ascend the stairs to the top of the renowned 165-foot observation tower, where they can enjoy incredible views of the surrounding area.
