Attractions and Places To See in Grafton County - Top 20

Grafton County is renowned for its natural beauty. Highly popular spots include Arethusa Falls, considered the highest single-stage waterfall accessible by hiking trail in New England. Visitors also frequently enjoy Lonesome Lake, a pristine lake nestled within Franconia Notch State Park, and the expansive views from Mount Cardigan summit.

Yes, Grafton County offers several family-friendly attractions. The Flume Gorge Visitor Center provides access to the deep stream gorge with educational exhibits. The Basin (Pemigewasset River) is another natural monument suitable for families. Additionally, attractions like Clark's Bears and Lost River Gorge & Boulder Caves are popular choices for all ages.

Grafton County has a rich history. You can explore the Enfield Shaker Historic District, which showcases a Shaker community's history, or visit The Frost Place, the former home of poet Robert Frost. Dartmouth College in Hanover is also a significant cultural and educational landmark. The county is also home to several historic covered bridges, including the Bath Covered Bridge.

Grafton County is a hiker's paradise. You can find numerous trails, including the popular hike to Arethusa Falls. The Falling Waters Trail features several waterfalls, including Cloudland Falls. For more challenging hikes with stunning views, consider trails leading to Mount Lafayette Summit or Mount Lincoln. You can find more detailed hiking guides, including easy walks and waterfall hikes, on our dedicated pages for easy hikes and waterfall hikes in Grafton County.

Many of Grafton County's outdoor trails are dog-friendly, allowing you to bring your canine companion. The hike to Arethusa Falls is a popular dog-friendly option. Always ensure your dog is on a leash and that you clean up after them to preserve the natural environment for everyone.

The best time to visit Grafton County largely depends on your preferred activities. Summer is ideal for hiking and exploring waterfalls, though it can be crowded. Fall offers spectacular foliage for scenic drives and hikes. Winter transforms the region into a snowy wonderland, perfect for skiing at resorts like Loon Mountain or visiting the Ice Castles in Woodstock.

Yes, for those undertaking longer hikes, facilities like the Greenleaf Hut, managed by the Appalachian Mountain Club, offer amenities such as snacks, toilets, and water. These huts are situated in the White Mountain National Forest and can even be reserved for overnight stays, providing a welcome respite on challenging trails.

Absolutely! Grafton County offers scenic routes for road cycling. You can explore various loops around lakes like Squam Lake or Newfound Lake, and enjoy rides through charming towns. For detailed routes and difficulty levels, check out our guide to Road Cycling Routes in Grafton County.

Beyond its mountains and lakes, Grafton County boasts unique natural features like the deep granite walls of the Flume Gorge and the impressive Basin (Pemigewasset River), a glacial pothole. The region is also home to several prominent peaks such as Mount Moosilauke, and the iconic Appalachian Trail passes through parts of the county.

Grafton County is a fantastic winter destination. Popular ski resorts like Loon Mountain Resort and Waterville Valley Resort offer skiing and snowboarding. A unique winter attraction is the Ice Castles in Woodstock, featuring breathtaking ice sculptures and tunnels. The New England Ski Museum at the base of Cannon Mountain also provides insight into the history of winter sports.

The mountain summits in Grafton County offer truly spectacular panoramic views. From the 3,121-foot, treeless granite peak of Mount Cardigan summit, you can see Mount Monadnock and the White Mountains. Mount Lafayette Summit and Mount Lincoln, part of the Franconia Ridge, provide stunning 360-degree vistas of the surrounding mountain ranges and valleys.