Recreation
Recreation Activities in the Region
Hiking in the White Mountains
There are over 1,200 miles of hiking trails in the White Mountains, from scenic day hikes to rugged multi-day treks through dense hardwood forest and across barren peaks.
By far the most popular hiking in the region is in the Presidential Range, topped off by the famous Mount Washington. There you will find breathtaking views, and unique above-treeline hiking unlike anything else in New England. In fact, at 6,288-feet above sea-level, Mount Washington is the tallest peak in the
northeastern US.
However, there are many excellent (and less daunting) hikes closer to Danforth Bay as well. Another popular hike in the region is beautiful Mt. Chocorua, via the Piper Trail. The Piper Trail is an attractive trail that offers maximum walking on open ledges to the summit of Mt. Chocorua.
The trailhead is found six miles south of Conway on Rt. 16, behind the Piper Trail Cabins. The rocky summit of Mt. Chocorua is a 4.5 mile, 3 hours and 35 minute hike, which is rated moderate to difficult. Hikers gain 2,700 feet in elevation to take in the views from the summit.
There are also many great nearby family hikes, like Diana’s Bath, Green Mountain and Foss Mountain. Stop by the Depot and our staff will be happy to give you directions.
Neighboring Lakes and Rivers
Ossipee Lake
Just downstream from Danforth Bay is popular Ossipee Lake. 3,092-acre Ossipee Lake has many inlets and bays, making it fun to explore! Ossipee Lake is accessible from Danforth Bay (21 foot maximum boat length) via a short trip through a shallow channel. Boats larger than 21 feet should use either the Ossipee Lake Marina's launch (fee is charged), just 1/2 mile away from our entrance on Ossipee Lake Road, or a public boat ramp can be found on Route 25 in Center Ossipee, approximately 7 miles from Danforth Bay.
Lake Winnipesaukee
The largest lake in the state and the 6th largest lake in the United States that lies completely within the borders of the United States. Its 44,586 acres allow for some fantastic pleasure-boating and exploration. The historic M/S Mount Washington ship offers daytime scenic cruises, evening dinner dance cruises, and a jazz champagne brunch on Winnipesaukee.
Sebago Lake (ME)
Just 30 miles from Danforth Bay, just over the Maine line, is the wonderfully scenic Sebago Lake. The second largest lake in the state of Maine, Sebago covers 45 square miles. Sebago is an excellent fishing lake, and it’s known as the "home of the land-locked salmon."
Saco River
The Saco is a popular recreational river that runs through North Conway and Conway, NH and into Fryeburg, ME. Paddle down the river in a canoe or kayak or let the current take you while you relax in a tube. Everyone enjoys the Saco, from swimming on one of its clean sandy beaches to fishing as you leisurely paddle along.
Recreational Businesses in the Area
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Canoe King – 1799 White Mountain Highway, Tamworth, NH (603) 323-7442 www.canoeking.com
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The Ham Arena – (603) 447-5886 www.hamarena.com
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Indian Mound Golf Club - Old Rt 16, Center Ossipee, NH (603) 539-7733 www.indianmoundgc.com
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King Pine Ski Area -Winter Only - Route 153, Madison, NH (603) 367-8896 www.kingpine.com
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Ossipee Lake Marina – 65 Marina Rd, Freedom, NH (603) 539-8456 www.ossipeelakemarina.com
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Saco Valley Sports Center – (207) 935-3777 www.sacovalleysportscenter.com
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Ski Works – Rt. 16, West Ossipee, NH (603) 539-2246 www.skiworksnh.com
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White Lake Speedway - 1799B White Mountain Hwy, Tamworth, NH (603) 323-8882 www.whitelakespeedway.com