At Pack Monadnock, you can choose between a seasonal drive and several hiking routes in Miller State Park. The park is located on the 2,290-foot summit and slopes of Pack Monadnock in Peterborough. A winding, 1.3-mile paved road leads to the summit overlook and is open seasonally to visitors arriving by car; official operating conditions apply. Three main routes lead up as hiking trails, and there is an observation tower at the summit. On a clear day, the view from the park stretches to Mount Washington, Boston’s skyscrapers and the hills of Vermont.

Another option is the 21-mile Wapack Trail. It runs from Mt. Watatic in Ashburnham, Massachusetts, to North Pack Monadnock in Greenfield. Those interested in hiking trails in the region will find, alongside the three main routes at Miller State Park, a trail with clearly named endpoints and a stated length.

Ponds, bogs and trails at Greenfield State Park

Ponds, bogs and woodland shape the landscape at Greenfield State Park, where the forest extends to the shore of Otter Lake. Hiking trails lead to ponds and other points of interest in the park. This lets you enjoy the landscape from the trail and combine your hike with a visit to the water.

Picnic Beach offers an opportunity to swim; seasonal operations may change. Kayaks and canoes are also available to rent in the park; rental availability may change. Because parking capacity is limited, visitors can make a reservation before arriving. If you plan to use this option, check the latest park information before your visit.

Experience art and nature on the trails

At the Andres Institute of Art in Brookline, art and nature come together across 140 acres of mountainous landscape, home to more than 107 sculptures. The grounds include 10 miles of hiking trails and more than 400 feet of elevation gain. Currently, the trails are open daily, 365 days a year, from sunrise to sunset. Access conditions may change, so check the latest information before your visit.

Monadnock State Park also combines trails with a striking landscape: it is surrounded by thousands of acres of protected uplands. Mount Monadnock was designated a National Natural Landmark in 1987. The park offers year-round recreational opportunities. The main trails from the park headquarters provide the most direct route to the summit of Mount Monadnock. Because parking capacity is limited, reservations before arrival are strongly recommended; check the latest information. Two camping areas are located at the park headquarters and at Gilson Pond.

History, nature and regional culture

The Franklin Pierce Homestead offers a historic glimpse into the life of the 14th president of the United States: it was his home from infancy until his marriage in 1834. The homestead is also considered an outstanding example of New Hampshire village architecture. His biography and the building’s design offer two different points of reference for understanding the site.

Stark Park is also tied to a family story: it is the final resting place of John Stark, his wife and several of their children. The “Walk in the Woods” trail network offers a range of activities: walking with or without a dog, jogging, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and mountain biking. The park is also home to “Molly Stark’s Wildwoods,” an outdoor nature play area for children.

Amoskeag Fishways offers educational programs and experiences that introduce visitors to the natural world of the Merrimack River and the greater Manchester, New Hampshire, area. Its offerings include museum-quality exhibits, including exhibits featuring live animals. A special seasonal experience is provided by the underwater viewing windows: in May and early June, you can watch migrating fish as they travel upstream.

The Currier Museum of Art offers guided and self-guided tours for private groups. As booking arrangements may change, it is advisable to check them in advance. Another way to experience regional culture is through the Peterborough Farmers’ Market, where you’ll find local produce, meat, fish, eggs, baked goods, jams and jellies, as well as handmade goods from local small businesses.

Discover more destinations: Manchester, Merrimack, Nashua, Bedford, Peterborough, New Boston, Francestown, Belknap.

For the broader travel overview: New Hampshire.