Errol includes half of Umbagog Lake, and the Androscoggin River begins at the lake in Errol. This connection between lake and river shapes the range of activities: swimming, canoeing, and boat access are available alongside winter options such as snowmobiling. When planning your trip, it’s worth considering your preferred focus first, followed by the relevant access and seasonal conditions.
Between Umbagog Lake and the Androscoggin River
The NH State boat launch on the Androscoggin River is accessible via North Mountain Pond Road in Errol. Conditions and access restrictions may change, so check the official access information before using it. Umbagog Lake State Park has a beach area for swimming; seasonal operations may vary.
Androscoggin Wayside Park is a scenic place to picnic, and canoeing is possible there. Mollidgewock State Park is on the banks of the Androscoggin River in the Thirteen Mile Woods Scenic Area; canoes and kayaks can be rented there. Rental services may vary seasonally.
The difference in offerings is what matters when choosing: Wayside Park combines picnicking and canoeing; Mollidgewock offers canoe and kayak rentals, and Umbagog Lake State Park has a beach area for swimming. The NH State boat launch is a separate access point on the Androscoggin River.
Staying overnight at Umbagog Lake
Umbagog Lake State Park offers a distinctive overnight option, with 33 remote campsites and four remote cabins around the lake. These campsites and cabins are accessible only by boat.
Snowmobiles and trail conditions
The 2024 town plan describes Errol as a popular vacation destination for snowmobilers. Trail conditions and access may change. The L.L. Cote store in Errol sells snowmobiles; the specific inventory may change. The Umbagog-Millsfield ATV Club trail system also includes Errol; routes and club agreements may change.
An official trail grant document from 2024 notes that approximately 1.25 miles of the Long Pond Trail in Errol require a material overlay due to large rocks. The 2024 document states that more than 18 inches of snow is required to groom the trail. This information adds specific details about a trail to help orient visitors interested in winter activities, without conflating it with the ATV trail system.
Nature nearby
Umbagog National Wildlife Refuge is near Errol. Popular activities there include fishing, hunting, wildlife viewing, and hiking. Regulations and seasonal conditions may change; check the current conditions before visiting.
The best time to visit depends on your interests: the beach and canoe and kayak rentals may operate seasonally, while access and trail conditions can also change. Check the relevant park and trail information before planning your trip.
Discover more destinations: Dummer, Gorham, Lancaster, Whitefield, Berlin, Dixville Notch, Colebrook, Milan.
For the main travel overview: Coos.
