Top Ten Lists

Picturesque New England Nature Experiences

 
New England is the most heavily forested area of the US. With this natural beauty comes the opportunity for endless recreational activities. No matter the season, you are bound to find fun ways to explore the great outdoors. From hiking to biking to cross country skiing, you can have it all in New England!
 
 
  • 1. Hike to Mt. Battie at Maine's Camden Hills State Park
    Hike to Mt. Battie at Maine's Camden Hills State Park
    280 Belfast Rd, , 04843
    Beautiful Camden, a coastal town in Mid-Coast Maine, is home to an amazing 5700 acre state park. The park features over 30 miles of hiking trails, including several featuring panoramic views of Penobscot Bay and the surrounding mountains. Be sure to hike up to Mt. Battie to take in panoramic views of the bay!
  • 2. Enjoy the fall foliage at Blue Hills Reservation
    Enjoy the fall foliage at Blue Hills Reservation
    695 Hillside St, , 02186
    This popular 7000 acre park, located just 20 minutes outside of Boston, features amazing views of both the Boston skyline and the surrounding hilly New England landscape. This park is at its' best during New England's colorful autumn season.

    With over 125 miles of hiking trails, camping, fishing, swimming, mountain climbing, ice skating, and more, you will be able to find an activity to suit your interest no matter the season. Not sure where to start? The Skyline trail features an amazing overlook of the Boston cityscape.

    The popular hike up to Great Blue Hill features outstanding views, both of Boston and rural New England. Additionally, along the way you will pass The Blue Hill Observatory, which is the oldest continuous weather record in the US.
  • 3. Cross country skiing in New Hampshire's White Mountains
    Cross country skiing in New Hampshire's White Mountains
    99 Ski Area Rd, , 03575
    A winter trip to Bretton Woods to ski within the beautiful forests of the White Mountains should be on every exercise enthusiasts' winter New England to-do list.

    The serenity and beauty of skiing through this amazing area can't be beat. You will find over 100km of trails, making Bretton Woods one of the largest cross country skiing destinations in the East. If you feel like splurging, a stay at the Omni Mt. Washington is highly recommended.
  • 4. Bike along the beautiful tree-lined Cape Cod Rail Trail
    Bike along the beautiful tree-lined Cape Cod Rail Trail
    Rt 134, , 02660
    The Cape Cod Rail trail has been rated one of the country's best rail trails. This 22 mile paved path along a former railroad route takes you through forested land the entire route. How's that for motivation?! The route follows a former railroad, hence leading to a mostly flat, easy ride.

    There are plenty of opportunities along the way to take a quick detour over to one of the beautiful local beaches. Coast Guard is located just path the ending point of the trail. This beauty has been rated one of the most scenic beaches in the US! In addition, you will find a handful of delicious seasonal restaurants along the way. Be sure to try out some seafood at Cobie's!
  • 5. Explore nature and solitude at New Hampshire's White Mountains National Forest
    Explore nature and solitude at New Hampshire's White Mountains National Forest
    71 White Mountain Dr, , 03223
    The White Mountains are one of the best parks in the country for recreational activities because they tend to see a lot less traffic than other national parks. Any activity in the White Mountains National Forest is a one-of-a-kind kind experience: peaceful, beautiful, and energizing all at the same time.

    Besides hiking, there are numerous scenic drives and beautiful overlooks to enjoy. Staying in a rustic cabin is always a wonderful experience. And a drive or guided tour up the beautiful Mt. Washington Auto Road offers the most amazing mountain views via the highest point in the Northeast.
  • 6. Take in the beauty of Devil's Hopyard State Park during fall foliage season
    Take in the beauty of Devil's Hopyard State Park during fall foliage season
    366 Hopyard Rd, , 06423
    The ideal time to visit this Connecticut state park is during the beautiful fall foliage season. In addition to numerous hiking trails, you will also find biking, camping, and picnicking opportunities.

    Photo opportunities exist at every turn, including scenic river views, a beautiful waterfall (Chapman Falls) and a covered bridge (Comstock Bridge).
  • 7. Enjoy a whale watching trip in historic Plymouth, Massachusetts
    Enjoy a whale watching trip in historic Plymouth, Massachusetts
    10 Town Wharf, , 02360
    Massachusetts is well known for being one of the best whale watching areas in the world. In fact, The World Wildlife Fund listed Massachusetts as one of the top ten places in the world for spotting whales.

    Whale watching season typically runs from April-October, with summertime being the prime time. One of the best places in the state for whale watching is aboard Captain John's sightseeing boat in Plymouth, Massachusetts.

    The opportunities for spotting whales, dolphins, and other marine life are plentiful. Best of all, whale sightings are guaranteed. If no whales are spotted during your voyage, you will receive a complimentary 2nd visit.

    Whale watching is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that everyone should add to their bucket list.
  • 8. Take a scenic ocean walk along Rhode Island's Cliffwalk
    Take a scenic ocean walk along Rhode Island's Cliffwalk
    Cliff Walk, , 02840
    Skip the Newport Mansions and head over to Cliffwalk, an amazing 3.5 mile walk along the coast. The views are amongst the best in Rhode Island, if not the entire Southern New England area.

    The views of the ocean and historic Newport Mansions are absolutely breathtaking. You will want to bring your camera with for this attraction. If you only have time for one activity in Rhode Island, Cliffwalk is the way to go! After your walk, there are many activities to enjoy in historic Newport including restaurants, shops, museums, and cruises.
  • 9. Get back to nature at Rhode Island's Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge
    Get back to nature at Rhode Island's Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge
    769 Sachuest Point Rd, , 02842
    Sachuest Point Wildlife Refuge in Middletown, Rhode Island (right on the edge of Newport) offers beautiful trails, wildlife spotting opportunities (deer are common),and endless views of the ocean.

    This peaceful escape is much less crowded than other trails in the area. Visiting is a great experience for bird enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone else looking for a little peace and quiet in a beautiful natural setting.
  • 10. Spend the day at Southeast Massachusetts's beautiful West Island Town Beach
    Spend the day at Southeast Massachusetts's beautiful West Island Town Beach
    [1-43] Fir St, , 02719
    West Island is the perfect escape for locals or visitors to Southeast Massachusetts as it tends to get much less crowded than other area beaches. This peaceful beach is perfect for photography, searching for seaglass, or just relaxing for the afternoon.