When you’re in need of an unplugged road trip, look no further than New Hampshire’s Great North Woods. This densely forested locale is an idyllic blend of natural solitude and quaint small town vibes. Couple that with adventure options like snowmobiling and moose spotting and you have the recipe for a righteous road trek.
Must See
Thirteen Mile Woods (Errol, NH) ‘Wallows’ are little ditches where moose like to hang out, and this wilderness has bunches of them. That’s why it’s one of the best places to spot these furry creatures on your North Woods trip.
Pro tip: Cruise an area of the woods called ‘Success Street’. Your chances of spying the majestic beasts are pretty good here.
Beaver Brook Falls Wayside (Colebrook, NH) This 80 foot cascade is one of New Hampshire’s most iconic. It’s also an easy stop on a North Woods road trip because you can see it right off Route 145. Pull off for a pit stop to enjoy the trails, picnic area, and stair-stepping falls.
45th Parallel Marker (Clarksville Pond Road) This marks the spot that puts you halfway between the Equator and the North Pole. You can’t not stop at a place like that!
Pittsburg-Clarksville Covered Bridge New Hampshire is famous for covered bridges. That’s why any North Woods road trip should roll through this one outside Pittsburg, NH.
Lake Francis State Park (Pittsburg, NH) — Lake lovers will love that the North Woods is home to a glistening chain of lakes. Lake Francis serves as the gateway to water bound adventures. Be sure to also check out the Connecticut Lakes while you’re up there.
Can’t-Miss Towns
Boasting a population of more moose than people, Pittsburg is a four season resort area that knows how to welcome travelers. Dubbed the ‘Snowmobiling Capital of New England’, this is the place where North Woods adventures are at their finest. Pittsburgh features a vast ATV trail system and fishing folk will enjoy a pristine network of streams, rivers, and lakes swimming with salmon and trout. In town, you’ll find several gift and specialty shops like the General Store, Moose Landing, and Lakeshore Crafts. Check out Grampy’s Drive-In for some roadside grub (snowmobiles and ATVs welcome).
For a main street full of North Woods charm, check out Berlin. This picturesque New England town sits on the banks of the Androscoggin River and offers restaurants, shops, and outfitting along an easy-to-walk main road. If you’re there in the summer, be sure to check out free music in the park for some riverside rhythms. Head to nearby Jericho Mountain State Park for ATV and outdoor adventures.
Other North Woods Notables
Here are other big things to think about when roadtripping through the Great North Woods:
- Camping and RVing — Because the wilderness is best enjoyed when you can experience every minute of it. Check out this campground locator to find your perfect North Woods spot.
- Hiking — This part of New Hampshire is home to some of the nation’s best hiking trails. Paths like the Falls In River Trail, The Cohos Trail, and the trails in Table Rock show off some spectacular vistas.
- Snowmobiling — If you’re here in the winter, snowmobiling is an epically fun North Woods activity. Outfitters in the region rent out snowmobiles and lead guided tours. P.S. While not technically in the North Woods Region, we can’t help mentioning that Suncook, NH is home to a Snowmobile Museum!
- Mountains — Spots like Magalloway Mountain outside Pittsburg will show you North Woods as far as the eye can see.
Looking for even more to explore? Check out these additional North Woods road trip resources:
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