Fall Foliage Around Lake Winnipesaukee

Lake Winnipesaukee's fall foliage is extraordinarily beautiful.  I just love looking at the bright reds, oranges and gold around the lake.  There are so many ways to view the beauty in the lakes region.

One of the most popular ways to see the fall foliage is on a boat.  Whether you go on your own boat or take a cruise on the M/S Mount Washington, you'll be amazed at the beauty in the surrounding hills.

If you don't have a boat, you can rent one and cruise around the lake at your own pace.  There are many marinas and boat rental places on Lake Winnipesaukee. 

Another option is to cruise Lake Winnisquam.  This is a smaller lake but still a fun place to boat.

If you're more rugged and want to paddle around, try canoeing or kayaking.  Lake Winnipesaukee has many quiet coves and islands that are perfect for either canoeing or kayaking.  You can get up close to the foliage and take some spectacular photos.

Another popular foliage viewing area is on top of Gunstock Mountain.  Take the chair lift to the Summit for some breathtaking views.  Some of the best photos can be taken from the top.

Don't forget the foliage train tours with the Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad.  This tour takes you along Lake Winnipesaukee for a different view of the fall foliage.  You can take a short afternoon jaunt, all day tour or even a dinner trip.  It's a fun way to enjoy the beauty of the lakes region for the whole family.

By Trail...

Hiking is another way to experience the beauty of the fall foliage in and around Lake Winnipesaukee.

One of the most popular hiking trails is Belknap Mountain.  It's an easy hike up and there are great views of Lake Winnipesaukee along the  way.  At the top, there are little stone benches to sit and rest before the trek down.

Mount Major in Alton Bay, is another popular hike.  This one is more challenging but once you're at the top, the view of Lake Winnipesaukee is spectacular. 

Other hiking trails include Red Hill  (route 25) in Center Harbor, Gunstock in Gilford and various trails on Belknap Mountain.

Of course, we can't forget the scenic drives.  You can drive around the lake and stop at different places to peek at the beauty of the lake from different towns.  As you drive, there are an abundance of places to eat.  You can even stop at some local town to pick up a souvenir or two.  This is just another fun way to view the fall foliage around Lake Winnipesaukee.

Another fun way that's different to view the fall foliage in the Lake Winnipesaukee area is in an airplane.  You can get some beautiful aerial photographs in the fall.  Yes, Laconia, NH does have an airport!  If you know how to fly, you can rent a plane or take a scenic plane ride with someone else as a pilot.  Either way, it's a fun experience.

Are you into horseback riding?  Fall foliage viewing on horseback will bring you to some colorful places.  You can enjoy the wildlife at the same time.

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