The best walks and hikes in Ellacoya State Park

The wider area around Ellacoya State Park offers over 30 hiking routes. These trails vary in difficulty, providing options for different experience levels, from easy loops to more challenging mountain ascents within the Belknap Mountain Range.

You'll primarily find forested terrain, with many trails winding through the Belknap Mountain State Forest. A key feature is the panoramic views of Lake Winnipesaukee and the surrounding mountains, especially from elevated points like those found on routes around Gunstock Mountain Resort or Piper Mountain.

Yes, there are several easy trails suitable for families. For instance, the Cobble Mountain loop — Gunstock Mountain Resort is an easy 2.5-mile (4.1 km) trail through forested slopes, often completed in just over an hour, making it a great choice for a shorter outing with children.

While Ellacoya State Park itself has specific rules regarding pets, many of the surrounding trails in areas like the Belknap Mountain State Forest and Gunstock Mountain Resort are generally dog-friendly. It's always best to check specific trail regulations or park websites for the most current pet policies before heading out.

Parking is typically available at trailheads within the Belknap Mountain State Forest and at Gunstock Mountain Resort. Ellacoya State Park itself has parking facilities for day-use visitors, which can serve as a base for exploring the wider region. Specific parking details can often be found on individual route pages or local park information.

Ellacoya State Park charges an entrance fee for day use, which covers access to its facilities, including the beach. However, many trails in the surrounding Belknap Mountain State Forest or Gunstock Mountain Resort may have different access requirements or fees. It's advisable to check with the specific land management authority for the trail you plan to hike.

The region offers great hiking opportunities throughout the year. Spring and fall provide comfortable temperatures and beautiful foliage, especially in autumn. Summer is popular for combining hiking with lake activities. Winter hiking is also possible, with trails like the Cobble Crown Trail offering unique overlooks, but requires appropriate gear for snow and ice.

Yes, for those seeking a more strenuous adventure, the Western Belknap Range loop — Belknap Mountain State Forest is a difficult 10.9-mile (17.5 km) path. This trail explores extensive forested areas and features significant elevation gain, offering a rewarding challenge.

The trails in the Ellacoya State Park region are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 50 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the diverse forested areas, the stunning panoramic views of Lake Winnipesaukee, and the variety of routes available for different skill levels.

Yes, many trails in the area are designed as loops, offering varied scenery without retracing your steps. Examples include the easy Cobble Mountain loop — Gunstock Mountain Resort and the moderate Gunstock ridge loop — Belknap Mountain State Forest, which provides varied terrain and elevation changes.

Hikers can expect stunning elevated perspectives of New Hampshire's largest lake, Lake Winnipesaukee, and the surrounding Sandwich and Ossipee mountains. Trails leading to peaks like Mount Rowe or overlooks from Gunstock Mountain Resort offer particularly rewarding panoramic vistas.

Yes, the area around Ellacoya State Park, particularly in Gilford and nearby towns, offers various options for dining and accommodation. You can find cafes, restaurants, and pubs, as well as hotels and the well-equipped RV campground within Ellacoya State Park itself, which features 37 sites with full hookups.