The best walks and hikes in Sunapee State Park

Yes, dogs are generally welcome on the hiking trails in Sunapee State Park, provided they are on a leash. The Newbury Trail is a popular choice for dog walkers. However, please be aware that dogs are not permitted at Lake Solitude or on the State Park beach to protect the sensitive ecosystem.

Yes, the park offers several easier options perfect for families. For a short and rewarding walk, consider the Eagle's Nest Trail via Lake Sunapee — Sunapee State Park. It's a relatively short loop with minimal elevation gain that leads to a lovely viewpoint overlooking the lake.

The trail to Lake Solitude is a highlight for many hikers. It leads to a serene, remote highland tarn near the summit of Mount Sunapee. The path meanders through dense, mossy forests. From the summit, the Solitude Trail continues for about a mile to White Ledges, which offers a spectacular overlook of the lake below. Due to its unique ecology, swimming is not allowed in Lake Solitude.

For those seeking a more strenuous hike, the Andrew Brook Trail is considered one of the more challenging routes to the summit. It's a 6.5-mile trail that follows a brook, involving a steeper and more rugged ascent compared to the main Summit Trail.

Yes, hiking is possible in the winter, but you must be prepared for snow and ice. Trails are not maintained for winter hiking, so proper gear such as microspikes, snowshoes, and warm, waterproof layers is essential. Always check weather forecasts and trail conditions before you go, as they can change rapidly.

The main parking area is at the Mount Sunapee Resort, located at 86 Beach Access Rd, Newbury, NH. This is the starting point for several key trails, including the Summit Trail. Some other trailheads, like the one for the Newbury Trail, have smaller parking areas. It's recommended to arrive early, especially on weekends and holidays, as lots can fill up.

Yes, there is typically a small entrance fee per person to access the park, which includes the beach area. This fee is collected during the main season. It's best to bring cash, although payment policies can vary. The fee helps maintain the park's facilities and trails.

The park is renowned for its stunning vistas. From the 2,743-foot summit of Mount Sunapee, you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding region. Specific overlooks like White Ledges provide a breathtaking view down to Lake Solitude, while Eagle's Nest offers closer views of Lake Sunapee and Newbury Harbor.

The trails in Sunapee State Park are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.8 stars. Hikers frequently praise the well-marked paths, the beautiful mixed forests, and the rewarding views from the summit and various overlooks. The serene atmosphere of Lake Solitude is often mentioned as a unique highlight.

Sunapee State Park features a network of over 10 miles of marked trails. Komoot has over a dozen curated routes available, ranging from easy lakeside walks to moderate mountain ascents, ensuring there are options for various fitness and experience levels.

The park is a year-round destination. In the summer, you can enjoy swimming and boating at Lake Sunapee, which has a public beach and boat launch. The Mount Sunapee Resort also offers activities like scenic chairlift rides, a canopy zip-line tour, and disc golf. In winter, the resort is a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding.

Yes, Sunapee State Park is a key point on two long-distance greenways. Both the Monadnock-Sunapee Greenway, a 48-mile trail, and the Sunapee-Ragged-Kearsarge Greenway intersect within the park, with their meeting point at the beautiful Lake Solitude. This makes the park a great spot for section hiking these longer routes.