arethusa fallsWhile most popularly thought of as a skiing destination, the charms of White Mountains National Forest extend into summer. New Hampshire's Presidential Mountains come alive during these warmer months with plentiful hiking, gorgeous waterfalls, and endless gape-worthy vistas.

 

Arethusa Falls
The path to Arethusa Falls is easily one of the most rewarding of the many trails tucked away in White Mountains National Forest . Be sure to pack a lunch; you’ll want to spend some time enjoying this natural wonder. Falling 200 feet, these falls are the highest of the White Mountains and in all of New Hampshire. The climb to Arethusa Falls, although rocky at times, is not as challenging as you might imagine; you'll only climb to an elevation of 1,000 feet. Let the intensity of the water in the stream be your guide, as it gets louder, you know you’re getting closer to the prize. About 1.3 miles in, the trail opens up to the most incredible view and the cacaphony of rushing water. Grab a spot on the bank or on the rocks in front of the falls and let the spray cool you off as you enjoy your lunch and the serenity of the setting. 

 

The Sugarloaves
Unlike Mount Washington, and nearby intimidating peaks, Adams and Jefferson, the Sugarloaves’ two summits offer manageable hikes. For relatively little effort, these peaks provide a great way to conquer the Presidential Mountains. The trail follows a crystal clear river, along which you’ll pass huge boulders left behind by thousands of years of glacier movement. View smoky quartz samples in the old quarry en route to the North Summit. At the top, you’re rewarded with bare ledges that offer spectacular 360 degree views of the mighty Presidential Range. Don’t forget to pack the camera!

 

Mount Washington Inn
As a reward for your hiking efforts, enjoy a drink and some nibbles on the terrace of Omni Mountain Washington Resort with the magnificence of Mount Washington and the Presidential Range as your backdrop. Standing nearly 6,300 feet high, Mt. Washington is the tallest of the Presidentials, some 600 feet higher than neighboring Mounts Jefferson and Adams. 

 

Sunset Time
In the late afternoon, bring a blanket and take on one of many trails at Cathedral Ledge. Find a spot to rest and get cozy as you take in the beauty of the sun setting. Afterward, enjoy dinner in the nearby town of North Conway. Wine lovers will appreciate the gourmet cuisine and excellent wine list at Wine Thyme.


Christmas Farm Inn
After a day of exertion, you’ll want to be sure your lodging is equipped to help restore your (pleasantly) worked muscles. I stayed at the Christmas Farm Inn, up the hill from the town of Jackson. The in-room fireplace and hot tub are heaven after a day of hiking the trails. You might want to stop at a liquor store to pick up a bottle of wine; nothing quite beats the relaxed feeling of drinking a glass of wine on your private balcony after a hot soak in the spa.

 

Have you been to the While Mountains National Forest? What tips and trails do you recommend? Share your thoughts in the comments below!


Photo by Laurie DePrete