Alfa’s guidebook

Alfa
Alfa’s guidebook

Welcome to our Guidebook!

Franklin and our cottage on Webster Lake is a perfect location to visit great restaurants, hikes, kayaking, rafting, mountain biking, skiing, wineries, holiday events, concerts, motorsports, ice fishing, snowmobiling, sledding, skating, live theatre and performances, wildlife exhibits and shows, outlet shopping, and more. In town dining includes Casamigos, The Franklin Studio, Asian Delight and The Waterhorse Irish Pub. Hiking, biking, atv and snowmobiling opportunities at The Northern Rail Trail just across the road, also direct access to the lake. Terrific mountain biker’s dream, 20 minutes to lift operated Highland Mountain Bike Park, and right in Franklin is Franklin Falls trails where there are great trails planned and designed by bikers! Profile Falls, The Upside Down Covered Bridge and the City “Where Three Rivers Meet”. New England’s first whitewater park, Mill Falls has even more to offer kayakers and watersports enthusiasts. Several close by wineries and breweries. Webster Lake Ice Fishing Derby. 4th of July Boat Parade. Veteran’s Memorial Recreation Area with the closest skiing to the cottage. Close to Ragged Mountain. Less than an hour to Gunstock, Loon, Cannon, Sunapee, Pat’s Peak and Tenney Mountain Skiing. Franconia Notch State Park, White Mountains attractions like The Flume Gorge, Basin, Clarks Bears, Ice Castles and other Lakes Region attractions like the Polar Caves, Lost River Gorge, Weir’s Beach and the Winnipesaukee Pier, hikes and sights less than an hour and an easy day trip. About 25 minutes to Concord, too!
Webster Lake, Franklin, NH 03235, USA
Franklin and our cottage on Webster Lake is a perfect location to visit great restaurants, hikes, kayaking, rafting, mountain biking, skiing, wineries, holiday events, concerts, motorsports, ice fishing, snowmobiling, sledding, skating, live theatre and performances, wildlife exhibits and shows, outlet shopping, and more. In town dining includes Casamigos, The Franklin Studio, Asian Delight and The Waterhorse Irish Pub. Hiking, biking, atv and snowmobiling opportunities at The Northern Rail Trail just across the road, also direct access to the lake. Terrific mountain biker’s dream, 20 minutes to lift operated Highland Mountain Bike Park, and right in Franklin is Franklin Falls trails where there are great trails planned and designed by bikers! Profile Falls, The Upside Down Covered Bridge and the City “Where Three Rivers Meet”. New England’s first whitewater park, Mill Falls has even more to offer kayakers and watersports enthusiasts. Several close by wineries and breweries. Webster Lake Ice Fishing Derby. 4th of July Boat Parade. Veteran’s Memorial Recreation Area with the closest skiing to the cottage. Close to Ragged Mountain. Less than an hour to Gunstock, Loon, Cannon, Sunapee, Pat’s Peak and Tenney Mountain Skiing. Franconia Notch State Park, White Mountains attractions like The Flume Gorge, Basin, Clarks Bears, Ice Castles and other Lakes Region attractions like the Polar Caves, Lost River Gorge, Weir’s Beach and the Winnipesaukee Pier, hikes and sights less than an hour and an easy day trip. About 25 minutes to Concord, too!

Dining, we recommend these:

Also see Wineries, Breweries, and Farms for more dining and food
Authentic tasty Mexican food, dine in and takeout reasonable prices and excellent service, cozy yet lively atmosphere. Decent vegetarian options. Great family booth seating, nice people. 13min/5.9 miles away
10 locals recommend
Casamigos
276 Main St
10 locals recommend
Authentic tasty Mexican food, dine in and takeout reasonable prices and excellent service, cozy yet lively atmosphere. Decent vegetarian options. Great family booth seating, nice people. 13min/5.9 miles away
Nice atmosphere with mountain views and a fireplace. Regular gourmet specials and upscale pub grub. Live music and food also served at the bar. About 20 minutes away in Andover.
77 locals recommend
Flying Goose Brew Pub
40 Andover Road
77 locals recommend
Nice atmosphere with mountain views and a fireplace. Regular gourmet specials and upscale pub grub. Live music and food also served at the bar. About 20 minutes away in Andover.
Extra fresh seafood counter, raw bar, fresh Live Maine lobster, raw and steamed shellfish and fish. Outdoor seating or takeout. Awesome lobster rolls and fried sea scallops, plus much more. Owner Mark is a great guy. 12miles/24 minutes away. Seasonal.
16 locals recommend
Lobster Connection
1007 Laconia Rd
16 locals recommend
Extra fresh seafood counter, raw bar, fresh Live Maine lobster, raw and steamed shellfish and fish. Outdoor seating or takeout. Awesome lobster rolls and fried sea scallops, plus much more. Owner Mark is a great guy. 12miles/24 minutes away. Seasonal.
Upscale quality BBQ food, great takeaway items and meat counter. Bbq packages hot and ready for pickup (call to order). The brisket and fries for 13 bucks or the family takeout pkg for 6 for $96 do NOT disappoint. Brisket, ribs, chicken, pulled pork, steaks, shrimp. 11miles/16 minutes away in Andover
23 locals recommend
The Refinery
4 Mill Rd
23 locals recommend
Upscale quality BBQ food, great takeaway items and meat counter. Bbq packages hot and ready for pickup (call to order). The brisket and fries for 13 bucks or the family takeout pkg for 6 for $96 do NOT disappoint. Brisket, ribs, chicken, pulled pork, steaks, shrimp. 11miles/16 minutes away in Andover
Right in town, this is a good food! We like the crispy pad Thai, the Bim bam bop, crispy rolls, crab rangoon, and mango fried rice. Good curries and Thai iced tea. Good vegetarian options. They have Thai, Chinese, Japanese, and Korean options and do dine in or take out. Service is good and it is pleasant, clean, reasonably priced and family owned/operated. 6 min./2.9 miles away
10 locals recommend
Asian Delight NH
330 Central St
10 locals recommend
Right in town, this is a good food! We like the crispy pad Thai, the Bim bam bop, crispy rolls, crab rangoon, and mango fried rice. Good curries and Thai iced tea. Good vegetarian options. They have Thai, Chinese, Japanese, and Korean options and do dine in or take out. Service is good and it is pleasant, clean, reasonably priced and family owned/operated. 6 min./2.9 miles away
Menu changes frequently, farm to table, nice outdoor dining on a quaint street near theatres shopping and the water. Great for a date night. Mixed cuisine: New England/ American/ Italian. Good vegetarian and gluten free options. Locally sourced food. We love the coconut shrimp, osso bucco, and filet mignon. Really every dish we have tried has been fresh, well prepared and delicious. About 11.5 miles away in Laconia (app. 30 minutes). Online ordering available.
22 locals recommend
Laconia Local Eatery
21 Veterans Square
22 locals recommend
Menu changes frequently, farm to table, nice outdoor dining on a quaint street near theatres shopping and the water. Great for a date night. Mixed cuisine: New England/ American/ Italian. Good vegetarian and gluten free options. Locally sourced food. We love the coconut shrimp, osso bucco, and filet mignon. Really every dish we have tried has been fresh, well prepared and delicious. About 11.5 miles away in Laconia (app. 30 minutes). Online ordering available.
Neat little place in town serving unique crepes (both savory and sweet) to take away or eat in. High quality and locally sourced coffee, delicious smoothies and milkshakes. Macarons too!
Downtown Crepes
Neat little place in town serving unique crepes (both savory and sweet) to take away or eat in. High quality and locally sourced coffee, delicious smoothies and milkshakes. Macarons too!
Close by with a welcoming pub atmosphere near the Opera House and local shops. Good lamb Shepherd’s pie and fish and chips. Irish Whiskey assortment of choices and beers.
Waterhorse Irish Pub
Close by with a welcoming pub atmosphere near the Opera House and local shops. Good lamb Shepherd’s pie and fish and chips. Irish Whiskey assortment of choices and beers.
Nice Vietnamese place in small town NH! the pho, caramalized pork sandwich and spring rolls are yum! Takeout only. 4.7 miles away in Tilton.
V's Sandwich
285 Main St
Nice Vietnamese place in small town NH! the pho, caramalized pork sandwich and spring rolls are yum! Takeout only. 4.7 miles away in Tilton.
Good kind of sports pub vibe, good American food. Prime rib, baked shrimp, clam chowder, specialty drinks. 4.6 miles away
10 locals recommend
Park Street Pub and Tavern
41 Park St
10 locals recommend
Good kind of sports pub vibe, good American food. Prime rib, baked shrimp, clam chowder, specialty drinks. 4.6 miles away
Hands down best breakfast place around. Great lunch with burgers, fresh pork chop, etc. About 6 miles away in Salisbury. “The Grain Box features foods prepared whenever possible from local product, eggs from farms in Salisbury NH, maple syrup from trees along your drive to get to the store, meats home grown and lean, boasting one of the best burgers you’ll ever have!” Recommend!
The Grainbox Restaurant at the Barn Store
Hands down best breakfast place around. Great lunch with burgers, fresh pork chop, etc. About 6 miles away in Salisbury. “The Grain Box features foods prepared whenever possible from local product, eggs from farms in Salisbury NH, maple syrup from trees along your drive to get to the store, meats home grown and lean, boasting one of the best burgers you’ll ever have!” Recommend!
New restaurant, very fresh Maine lobster, live music. 8.6 miles away in Tilton.
Dox on Winnisquam
New restaurant, very fresh Maine lobster, live music. 8.6 miles away in Tilton.
Fresh homemade ice cream and homemade waffle cones. Farm animals. 7.2 miles/13 minutes away. Open Fri-Sun 10-6 in fall.
Milltuck Farm & Creamery
Fresh homemade ice cream and homemade waffle cones. Farm animals. 7.2 miles/13 minutes away. Open Fri-Sun 10-6 in fall.
The BEST handcut fresh donuts you could want: they are special! Particularly the yeast donuts, maple bacon, fritters and crullers. Old school kind of place. Get there early or order ahead because they do sell out as the day goes on, or check them on fb for daily specials and limited delivery. 2.1 miles away in Franklin.
6 locals recommend
Brothers Donuts & Deli Shop
426 Central St
6 locals recommend
The BEST handcut fresh donuts you could want: they are special! Particularly the yeast donuts, maple bacon, fritters and crullers. Old school kind of place. Get there early or order ahead because they do sell out as the day goes on, or check them on fb for daily specials and limited delivery. 2.1 miles away in Franklin.
4.7 miles away, this is the best pizza around here. (Actually voted best in NH). You can eat on the patio overlooking the river which is nice. Great subs and greek style pies too!
16 locals recommend
Tilton House of Pizza
298 Main St
16 locals recommend
4.7 miles away, this is the best pizza around here. (Actually voted best in NH). You can eat on the patio overlooking the river which is nice. Great subs and greek style pies too!
Haus made chocolates candies and ice cream. Special place with a long history and worth a visit! We love the ice cream, turtles, fudge and holiday selections. 40 minutes away in Laconia. Open year round, closed Tuesdays.
39 locals recommend
Kellerhaus
259 Endicott St N
39 locals recommend
Haus made chocolates candies and ice cream. Special place with a long history and worth a visit! We love the ice cream, turtles, fudge and holiday selections. 40 minutes away in Laconia. Open year round, closed Tuesdays.

Entertainment

17 locals recommend
Smitty's Cinema Tilton
630 W Main St
17 locals recommend
Check out their website for show schedules. Live concerts and shows, beautiful theatre.
6 locals recommend
Colonial Theatre
609 Main St
6 locals recommend
Check out their website for show schedules. Live concerts and shows, beautiful theatre.
Upscale boutique venue, shows and concerts
Lakeport Opera House
781 Union Ave
Upscale boutique venue, shows and concerts
In Concord, two venues (Chubb theatre and Bank of NH). Looking ahead, Red Hot Chili Peppers Mar. 3, Celtic Woman Mar. 22.
29 locals recommend
Capitol Center for the Arts
44 S Main St
29 locals recommend
In Concord, two venues (Chubb theatre and Bank of NH). Looking ahead, Red Hot Chili Peppers Mar. 3, Celtic Woman Mar. 22.
63 locals recommend
The Flying Monkey
39 Main St
63 locals recommend
7 locals recommend
Interlakes Summer Theatre
One Laker Ln
7 locals recommend
Neat little Laconia theatre across from Local Eatery and Train station.
The CAKE Theatre
12 Veterans Square
Neat little Laconia theatre across from Local Eatery and Train station.
Currently under much awaited restoration, 2023 Scheduled shows are mostly at the public library this year.
6 locals recommend
Franklin Opera House Inc
316 Central St
6 locals recommend
Currently under much awaited restoration, 2023 Scheduled shows are mostly at the public library this year.

Hiking, Biking, Watersports and Cross Country

There are lots of White Mountains hikes too that we recommend: for this we have included our favorite local ones.
Franklin Falls Reservoir Park is alongside the Franklin Falls Dam which was built to control the Pemigewassett River flowing into the Merrimack River. Trails for all abilities, easy to black diamond. The area is very popular area with mountain bikers. Hunting is allowed in the area seasonally, so hikers and bikers should WEAR BLAZE ORANGE during hunting season for safety. MOUNTAIN BIKING: The trails here are famously very fast and flowing with very few rocky sections. Location is on both sides of the Pemigewasset River between Bristol and Franklin, NH. The property consists of more than 2,500 wooded acres and spans five towns. It is managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers. The (free) mountain bike trail system currently consists of approximately 10 miles of multi-use trail, built by mountain bikers for mountain bikers. Much of the terrain is very “un-New England like” with very few rocks. As a result Franklin Falls is known for its flowing, buff single track. It is great venue for group rides with mixed skill levels. Experts can enjoy high speed tree-slaloming, while novices can enjoy the trails at a more relaxed pace without getting in over their heads in difficulty level. Even your roadie friends can have fun here! Some of the fastest flow can be found on trails that include Moose Gully, Pine Snake, Bee, Lost Wall Rusty Bucket, and Stump. Trails on the slightly tighter side include Rogue, Caddywhompus, and Cellar Hole. The newest trail, Sniper is a nice combination of flow and undulating terrain. For advanced riders looking for a more technical challenge, Salmon Brook Trail offers steeper pitches, tight switchbacks, narrow benches, bridges, and rock gardens. It rides best when entering at its intersection with the Rusty Bucket Trail. The signature trail at Franklin Falls is the Mighty Chicken which is a gravity trail, built in a natural half-pipe created by the walls of Chicken Ravine. The trail surfs up and down the ravine walls then finishes out over a series of drops and berms. It continues to be tuned to increase the yeehaw! index. The trail system is open year round, and is a great choice for early spring riding when other trail systems are closed for mud season. Sandy sub-soil keeps the area extremely well drained so mud is virtually non-existent. eMTBs are allowed on these trails.
Franklin Falls Recreational Trails
Franklin Falls Reservoir Park is alongside the Franklin Falls Dam which was built to control the Pemigewassett River flowing into the Merrimack River. Trails for all abilities, easy to black diamond. The area is very popular area with mountain bikers. Hunting is allowed in the area seasonally, so hikers and bikers should WEAR BLAZE ORANGE during hunting season for safety. MOUNTAIN BIKING: The trails here are famously very fast and flowing with very few rocky sections. Location is on both sides of the Pemigewasset River between Bristol and Franklin, NH. The property consists of more than 2,500 wooded acres and spans five towns. It is managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers. The (free) mountain bike trail system currently consists of approximately 10 miles of multi-use trail, built by mountain bikers for mountain bikers. Much of the terrain is very “un-New England like” with very few rocks. As a result Franklin Falls is known for its flowing, buff single track. It is great venue for group rides with mixed skill levels. Experts can enjoy high speed tree-slaloming, while novices can enjoy the trails at a more relaxed pace without getting in over their heads in difficulty level. Even your roadie friends can have fun here! Some of the fastest flow can be found on trails that include Moose Gully, Pine Snake, Bee, Lost Wall Rusty Bucket, and Stump. Trails on the slightly tighter side include Rogue, Caddywhompus, and Cellar Hole. The newest trail, Sniper is a nice combination of flow and undulating terrain. For advanced riders looking for a more technical challenge, Salmon Brook Trail offers steeper pitches, tight switchbacks, narrow benches, bridges, and rock gardens. It rides best when entering at its intersection with the Rusty Bucket Trail. The signature trail at Franklin Falls is the Mighty Chicken which is a gravity trail, built in a natural half-pipe created by the walls of Chicken Ravine. The trail surfs up and down the ravine walls then finishes out over a series of drops and berms. It continues to be tuned to increase the yeehaw! index. The trail system is open year round, and is a great choice for early spring riding when other trail systems are closed for mud season. Sandy sub-soil keeps the area extremely well drained so mud is virtually non-existent. eMTBs are allowed on these trails.
About 20 minutes away. Lift-access mountain bike park with cross-country trails, an indoor training center & a bag jump. Closed Nov.12-June 2.
32 locals recommend
Highland Mountain Bike Park
75 Ski Hill Dr
32 locals recommend
About 20 minutes away. Lift-access mountain bike park with cross-country trails, an indoor training center & a bag jump. Closed Nov.12-June 2.
Ebike rentals, Fat Bikes and trail information. Right in town.
Lakes Region eBikes
419 Central Street
Ebike rentals, Fat Bikes and trail information. Right in town.
Accessible from Franklin Falls Recreational Trails. A short hike brings you to lovely scenic waterfalls. Picnic tables. 0.2-mile out-and-back trail near Bristol, New Hampshire. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 4 min to complete. This trail is great for walking, and it's unlikely you'll encounter many other people while exploring.
Profile Falls
Accessible from Franklin Falls Recreational Trails. A short hike brings you to lovely scenic waterfalls. Picnic tables. 0.2-mile out-and-back trail near Bristol, New Hampshire. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 4 min to complete. This trail is great for walking, and it's unlikely you'll encounter many other people while exploring.
This is also where Veteran’s Memorial Recreation Area is (skiing/eats/skating/events). It is 3 miles/2 hours (500 feet up) hike via Shaw Pond and Elks trails. To get to the trail take Chance Pond Road across from the cottage, (2 miles) then right onto Flaghole Rd (1.2 miles).
Great Gains Memorial Forest
This is also where Veteran’s Memorial Recreation Area is (skiing/eats/skating/events). It is 3 miles/2 hours (500 feet up) hike via Shaw Pond and Elks trails. To get to the trail take Chance Pond Road across from the cottage, (2 miles) then right onto Flaghole Rd (1.2 miles).
At Winslow State Park climb to a shortcut to the White Mountains! The views are comparable to Mt. Monadnock, Mt. Cardigan, Welch Dickey Loop, but the hike is 10 times easier (if you drive up from the south). The fire tower is also a plus. The top is smooth granite with nearly 360 deg views, on a clear day you can see Mt. Washington. If you want a longer hike you can walk up on the north side. The best views are from the top 500 feet so you get them from either approach.
Mt Kearsarge Trailhead
Kearsarge Mountain Road
At Winslow State Park climb to a shortcut to the White Mountains! The views are comparable to Mt. Monadnock, Mt. Cardigan, Welch Dickey Loop, but the hike is 10 times easier (if you drive up from the south). The fire tower is also a plus. The top is smooth granite with nearly 360 deg views, on a clear day you can see Mt. Washington. If you want a longer hike you can walk up on the north side. The best views are from the top 500 feet so you get them from either approach.
$4/adult, $2/youth. Mount Kearsarge is a must-do hike for anyone living in the Kearsarge area. The summit has a fire tower (which is occasionally open to enter). The top is very exposed and offers 360-degree views of the surrounding area. Check to see if your GPS is leading you to Kearsarge Mountain Rd before departing if you're using Maps. Sometimes there are seasonal road closures. Winslow/Barlow 2.5-mile loop near Wilmot, New Hampshire. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 1 h 54 min to complete. This is a very popular area for hiking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring
23 locals recommend
Winslow State Park
475 Kearsarge Mountain Rd
23 locals recommend
$4/adult, $2/youth. Mount Kearsarge is a must-do hike for anyone living in the Kearsarge area. The summit has a fire tower (which is occasionally open to enter). The top is very exposed and offers 360-degree views of the surrounding area. Check to see if your GPS is leading you to Kearsarge Mountain Rd before departing if you're using Maps. Sometimes there are seasonal road closures. Winslow/Barlow 2.5-mile loop near Wilmot, New Hampshire. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 1 h 54 min to complete. This is a very popular area for hiking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring
$4/adult, $2/youth. This short trail starts from the parking lot at the end of the Rollins State Park auto road and climbs to meet the Lincoln Trail just below the summit of Mount Kearsarge. The Rollins trail is the easiest way to the summit and the total distance from the parking lot to the summit is about 0.6 mile. The trail starts as a crushed gravel path, crossing a few small bridges as it passes through the picnic area. It then ascends via easy to moderate grades as it climbs along the old route of a carriage path. It meets the Lincoln Trail, which ascends 0.1 mile to the open summit over bare ledge.
18 locals recommend
Rollins State Park
1066 Kearsarge Mountain Rd
18 locals recommend
$4/adult, $2/youth. This short trail starts from the parking lot at the end of the Rollins State Park auto road and climbs to meet the Lincoln Trail just below the summit of Mount Kearsarge. The Rollins trail is the easiest way to the summit and the total distance from the parking lot to the summit is about 0.6 mile. The trail starts as a crushed gravel path, crossing a few small bridges as it passes through the picnic area. It then ascends via easy to moderate grades as it climbs along the old route of a carriage path. It meets the Lincoln Trail, which ascends 0.1 mile to the open summit over bare ledge.
Explore this 8.9-mile out-and-back trail near North Sutton, New Hampshire. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 5 h 3 min to complete. This is a popular trail for birding, hiking, and snowshoeing, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. The best times to visit this trail are April through September. Trail is about 25 minutes away.
10 locals recommend
Mount Kearsarge State Forest Park
10 locals recommend
Explore this 8.9-mile out-and-back trail near North Sutton, New Hampshire. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 5 h 3 min to complete. This is a popular trail for birding, hiking, and snowshoeing, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. The best times to visit this trail are April through September. Trail is about 25 minutes away.
Hiking and Biking, “magical river walk” Get to know this 6.1-mile out-and-back trail right in town. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 2 h 0 min to complete. This is a popular trail for birding, paddle sports, and walking, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day.
Winnipesaukee River Trail - Franklin Trailhead
Hiking and Biking, “magical river walk” Get to know this 6.1-mile out-and-back trail right in town. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 2 h 0 min to complete. This is a popular trail for birding, paddle sports, and walking, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day.
4 season 59 mile scenic rail trail from Boscawen to Franklin at Webster Place and on to Lebanon Nh. Hiking, Biking, snowmobiling. There is a trailhead just across from the cottage giving you direct access. Bikes may be rented from EBikes in town.
Northern Rail Trail, Franklin, NH, USA
4 season 59 mile scenic rail trail from Boscawen to Franklin at Webster Place and on to Lebanon Nh. Hiking, Biking, snowmobiling. There is a trailhead just across from the cottage giving you direct access. Bikes may be rented from EBikes in town.
Discover this 4.7-mile out-and-back trail near Wilmot, New Hampshire. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 2 h 40 min to complete. This is a popular trail for birding and hiking, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. The best times to visit this trail are March through October. About 19 minutes/13 miles away to the trailhead on New Canada Rd. In Wilmot.
Ragged Mt. Trailhead
Discover this 4.7-mile out-and-back trail near Wilmot, New Hampshire. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 2 h 40 min to complete. This is a popular trail for birding and hiking, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. The best times to visit this trail are March through October. About 19 minutes/13 miles away to the trailhead on New Canada Rd. In Wilmot.
Mt. Sunapee via Andrew Brook Trail. This route passes Lake Solitude before it reaches the popular White Cliffs Overlook and the summit of Mount Sunapee. The summit is wooded so some hikers choose to turn around after the overlook. The trail is rocky and has plenty of exposed roots, some hikers might find trekking poles useful to help navigate the uneven terrain. Trailhead is about 40 minutes away. Get to know this 5.8-mile out-and-back trail near Newbury, New Hampshire. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 3 h 26 min to complete. This is a very popular area for hiking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. The best times to visit this trail are May through October
Andrew Brook Trail
Mountain Road
Mt. Sunapee via Andrew Brook Trail. This route passes Lake Solitude before it reaches the popular White Cliffs Overlook and the summit of Mount Sunapee. The summit is wooded so some hikers choose to turn around after the overlook. The trail is rocky and has plenty of exposed roots, some hikers might find trekking poles useful to help navigate the uneven terrain. Trailhead is about 40 minutes away. Get to know this 5.8-mile out-and-back trail near Newbury, New Hampshire. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 3 h 26 min to complete. This is a very popular area for hiking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. The best times to visit this trail are May through October
Another option for the Northern Rail Trail is to take the trail from Highland Lake Inn or Tucker Mountain Rd in Andover. Explore this 13.1-mile out-and-back section of trail. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 4 h 6 min to complete. This is a popular trail for mountain biking, road biking, and running,
Northern Rail Trail Parking
Another option for the Northern Rail Trail is to take the trail from Highland Lake Inn or Tucker Mountain Rd in Andover. Explore this 13.1-mile out-and-back section of trail. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 4 h 6 min to complete. This is a popular trail for mountain biking, road biking, and running,
In Franklin. Rentals (they deliver to the lake and rail trail) of standup paddleboards, solo and tandem kayaks, canoes, mountain bikes. Also tours and lessons, including wild and scenic river kayaking, river tubing, white water rafting (year round). River tubing and whitewater rafting on the Winnipesaukee River, Kayaking on the Merrimack, Guided Kayak Fishing Trips. They also offer beginner to intermediate whitewater kayak lessons, and Roll, Gripper to Ripper, and Swiftwater Rescue sessions.
6 locals recommend
Outdoor New England
376 Central St
6 locals recommend
In Franklin. Rentals (they deliver to the lake and rail trail) of standup paddleboards, solo and tandem kayaks, canoes, mountain bikes. Also tours and lessons, including wild and scenic river kayaking, river tubing, white water rafting (year round). River tubing and whitewater rafting on the Winnipesaukee River, Kayaking on the Merrimack, Guided Kayak Fishing Trips. They also offer beginner to intermediate whitewater kayak lessons, and Roll, Gripper to Ripper, and Swiftwater Rescue sessions.
47 minutes away, 4.4 mile loop relatively easy access to some great views. Welch and Dickey Mountains, Waterville Valley.
29 locals recommend
Welch-Dickey Trailhead
Orris Road
29 locals recommend
47 minutes away, 4.4 mile loop relatively easy access to some great views. Welch and Dickey Mountains, Waterville Valley.

Sightseeing and Nature

Leaves, Lake cruises, live animal exhibits natural wonders, moose tours, caves gorges and waterfalls
15 locals recommend
Loon Preservation Committee
183 Lees Mill Rd
15 locals recommend
North Conway Moose Safari Moose Tour
40 Norcross Cir
About 45 minutes away.
Sculptured Rocks, Groton, NH 03266, USA
About 45 minutes away.

Franklin

There are many spectacular sights in the Lakes Region and the White Mountains of NH. Please ask for info on day trips, dining, or anything else that interests you.
Winni River days June 14-16, outdoor concerts, New England’s first whitewater park and much more. Franklin’s Veteran’s Ski Area very close by too, winter carnival activities in February and March, including the downhill kayak event, “Boat Bash Snow Crash” in March.
Franklin
Winni River days June 14-16, outdoor concerts, New England’s first whitewater park and much more. Franklin’s Veteran’s Ski Area very close by too, winter carnival activities in February and March, including the downhill kayak event, “Boat Bash Snow Crash” in March.
In Franklin. Closest whitewater rafting to Boston. Also Winter whitewater rafting with warm toasty gear and lots of thrills. Offers paddleboard and kayak rentals, wild and scenic river kayaking, river tubing trips, whitewater kayak lessons, bike and paddleboard combo trips, moving water and swift water kayak fishing lessons and more. One delivers rentals/does lessons at the lake as well, including stand up paddle boarding. Boogie boarding is easily accessible at Franklin’s whitewater park and ONE rents them as well. Located in town. Outdoor adventures where the Winnepesaukee and Pemigewasset Rivers form the Merrimack River.
6 locals recommend
Outdoor New England
376 Central St
6 locals recommend
In Franklin. Closest whitewater rafting to Boston. Also Winter whitewater rafting with warm toasty gear and lots of thrills. Offers paddleboard and kayak rentals, wild and scenic river kayaking, river tubing trips, whitewater kayak lessons, bike and paddleboard combo trips, moving water and swift water kayak fishing lessons and more. One delivers rentals/does lessons at the lake as well, including stand up paddle boarding. Boogie boarding is easily accessible at Franklin’s whitewater park and ONE rents them as well. Located in town. Outdoor adventures where the Winnepesaukee and Pemigewasset Rivers form the Merrimack River.
In Franklin. New England’s first whitewater park on the Winnipesaukee River. Whitewater features include the “standing wave”, also viewing areas, water play area, mountain bike course, climbing wall and more. Located in town. Boogie board in the river for non-stop surfing fun.
Mill City Park
6 Willow Street
In Franklin. New England’s first whitewater park on the Winnipesaukee River. Whitewater features include the “standing wave”, also viewing areas, water play area, mountain bike course, climbing wall and more. Located in town. Boogie board in the river for non-stop surfing fun.
Webster Lake Independence Day Parade will be July 6 this year! We always participate and shoreline audience participation is encouraged. There are always fireworks to be seen on this special day. You may enjoy visiting the Webster Lake Wildlife Management Area while you are here, which Comprises 1,660 feet of frontage along the predominantly developed shoreline of Webster Lake. The upland portion of the Webster Lake WMA is primarily made up of hemlock/hardwood/pine forest. Hardwoods include red oak, red maple, and beech. Approximately thirteen acres of a 17.5 acre wetland falls within the WMA along the southern border. A steep oak-pine dominated hill with rock outcrops dominates the eastern half of the property. Common Wildlife: Common wildlife species include white-tailed deer, turkey, and fisher. Wood ducks and mallards commonly use the wetland. Bald eagles frequent the shoreline on the WMA. Webster Lake is stocked by the NH Fish and Game Department with rainbow and brown trout. (The most heavily stocked lake in NH). Typical warm water species occurring in the lake include smallmouth and largemouth bass, chain pickerel, hornpout and white perch. Directions: Webster Lake WMA can be accessed from Lake Shore Drive off either NH Route 11 or NH Route 3A in Franklin. Although the property contains significant lake frontage, there is no boat or canoe access. The lakeshore is nearly 0.5 mile across the property from Lake Shore Drive. We also have Loon Island which is quite a paddle but can be reached by canoe or kayak. It is on the opposite side of the lake and to the left when you are standing on the cottage beach. When you look across and see Griffin Beach the island is to the left. We have breeding Loons on the lake and a protected nest was installed by the Loon Preservation Society in 2022 to help with eagle predation. Awesome eagle sightings and photo ops all along the wildlife area.
Webster Lake
Webster Lake Independence Day Parade will be July 6 this year! We always participate and shoreline audience participation is encouraged. There are always fireworks to be seen on this special day. You may enjoy visiting the Webster Lake Wildlife Management Area while you are here, which Comprises 1,660 feet of frontage along the predominantly developed shoreline of Webster Lake. The upland portion of the Webster Lake WMA is primarily made up of hemlock/hardwood/pine forest. Hardwoods include red oak, red maple, and beech. Approximately thirteen acres of a 17.5 acre wetland falls within the WMA along the southern border. A steep oak-pine dominated hill with rock outcrops dominates the eastern half of the property. Common Wildlife: Common wildlife species include white-tailed deer, turkey, and fisher. Wood ducks and mallards commonly use the wetland. Bald eagles frequent the shoreline on the WMA. Webster Lake is stocked by the NH Fish and Game Department with rainbow and brown trout. (The most heavily stocked lake in NH). Typical warm water species occurring in the lake include smallmouth and largemouth bass, chain pickerel, hornpout and white perch. Directions: Webster Lake WMA can be accessed from Lake Shore Drive off either NH Route 11 or NH Route 3A in Franklin. Although the property contains significant lake frontage, there is no boat or canoe access. The lakeshore is nearly 0.5 mile across the property from Lake Shore Drive. We also have Loon Island which is quite a paddle but can be reached by canoe or kayak. It is on the opposite side of the lake and to the left when you are standing on the cottage beach. When you look across and see Griffin Beach the island is to the left. We have breeding Loons on the lake and a protected nest was installed by the Loon Preservation Society in 2022 to help with eagle predation. Awesome eagle sightings and photo ops all along the wildlife area.

Wineries

Black Bear Vineyard & Winery spans 18 acres of beautiful rolling hills in Salisbury, New Hampshire and is one of the largest vineyards in the state. Enjoy secluded tours through the vineyard, chill out at the stone patios and outdoor fireplaces, or try some wines in their unique tasting room. They grow 7 varieties of estate wines, including 4 white wines, 3 red wines and several unique blends. They have even won several awards.
Black Bear Vineyard
289 New Rd
Black Bear Vineyard & Winery spans 18 acres of beautiful rolling hills in Salisbury, New Hampshire and is one of the largest vineyards in the state. Enjoy secluded tours through the vineyard, chill out at the stone patios and outdoor fireplaces, or try some wines in their unique tasting room. They grow 7 varieties of estate wines, including 4 white wines, 3 red wines and several unique blends. They have even won several awards.
Born out of our love for fine wines and delicious spirits, Haunting Whisper, LLC has become a great location for enjoying the sweet nectar of NH handcrafted wine & spirits. We have been producing product at our location in Danbury, NH since 2005 and serving the public since 2009.
13 locals recommend
Haunting Whisper Vineyard & Spirits
13 locals recommend
Born out of our love for fine wines and delicious spirits, Haunting Whisper, LLC has become a great location for enjoying the sweet nectar of NH handcrafted wine & spirits. We have been producing product at our location in Danbury, NH since 2005 and serving the public since 2009.
About a half hour away, good restaurant, brunch
25 locals recommend
Gilmanton Winery and Restaurant
528 Meadow Pond Rd
25 locals recommend
About a half hour away, good restaurant, brunch
Tastings, slushys and by the glass service. Outdoor seating in summer by the river. Good cafe menu charcuterie cheese soup sandwiches entrees. About 20 minutes away. This is a fun place with a “Wine should be approachable and never snobby” philosophy.
Crazy Cat Winery
365 Lake St
Tastings, slushys and by the glass service. Outdoor seating in summer by the river. Good cafe menu charcuterie cheese soup sandwiches entrees. About 20 minutes away. This is a fun place with a “Wine should be approachable and never snobby” philosophy.
Coffin Cellars, LLC is a family-run country winery located in Webster, NH. Specializing in wines made from fruits and berries (and a flower and a couple vegetables!), many of which are grown locally or on the property. ​ Currently, Coffin Cellars rotates 15 varieties throughout the year. Wine is available for sale by pickup at the winery. Wine tastings are available by reservation ONLY, Saturday and Sundays from 1-5pm
Coffin Cellars Winery
Coffin Cellars, LLC is a family-run country winery located in Webster, NH. Specializing in wines made from fruits and berries (and a flower and a couple vegetables!), many of which are grown locally or on the property. ​ Currently, Coffin Cellars rotates 15 varieties throughout the year. Wine is available for sale by pickup at the winery. Wine tastings are available by reservation ONLY, Saturday and Sundays from 1-5pm
Featured 2017 in Food and Wine Magazine’s top 500 wineries in America. Charlie Brown Jazz Christmas Nov.30. In Meredith so it is a little drive. The eatery offers a variety of charcuterie, cheese, and salami plates, as well as flatbreads, paninis, sandwiches, and salads. You can enjoy these dishes with a glass, half carafe, or carafe of Hermit Woods wine in the eatery or on the deck. They also have locally brewed beers from small craft breweries in NH available. Tasting Room and Tours. $18 for guided wine tasting, $25 for guided tour (allow an hour). Autumn loft wine tastings, piano music, ticketed live music events.
34 locals recommend
Hermit Woods Winery & Deli
72 Main St
34 locals recommend
Featured 2017 in Food and Wine Magazine’s top 500 wineries in America. Charlie Brown Jazz Christmas Nov.30. In Meredith so it is a little drive. The eatery offers a variety of charcuterie, cheese, and salami plates, as well as flatbreads, paninis, sandwiches, and salads. You can enjoy these dishes with a glass, half carafe, or carafe of Hermit Woods wine in the eatery or on the deck. They also have locally brewed beers from small craft breweries in NH available. Tasting Room and Tours. $18 for guided wine tasting, $25 for guided tour (allow an hour). Autumn loft wine tastings, piano music, ticketed live music events.