Sightseeing in New Hampshire's Monadnock Region

The Monadnock region of Southwestern New Hampshire provides a wide variety of sightseeing opportunities. From mountain vistas, to unspoiled New England villages, to scenic waterways, the Monadnock region offers something for everyone.

Mountains

Any sightseeing trip to the Monadnock region must start with the mountain that gives the region its name. At just over 3,000 feet, Mount Monadnock is accessible to even unexperienced climbers. This, combined with its proximity to Northeastern population centers and the remarkable view from the summit, has helped make Mount Monadnock one of the world's most climbed mountains.

If the hike up Monadnock seems daunting, consider Pack Monadnock instead. This smaller mountain offers great views of Mount Monadnock, and its summit can be accessed by car from Miller State Park. Also accessible from Miller State Park is the 21-mile Wapack trail, a truly great hike.

Villages

Located in the heart of the Monadnock region, Hancock is a remarkably well-preserved New England village. In addition to its postcard-perfect village green and quintessential white-clapboard meeting house, Hancock offers hundreds of acres of pristine conservation land for hiking and bird-watching.

Just south of Hancock on New Hampshire Route 202 is Peterborough. Peterborough is the business and cultural hub of the region. Check out the many small shops and boutiques, enjoy lunch at 12 Pine in Depot Square, and be sure to stop in at the Peterboro Basket Company's factory and outlet for great deals on high-quality basketry.

Southeast of Peterborough lies the tiny town of Temple, home to the country's oldest town band. If you are visiting on a summer evening, be sure to take in a concert at the bandstand on the town common. Afterward, an excellent dinner is just steps away at the Birchwood Inn.

Waterways

The Monadnock region is a land of many streams and rivers. Consider a picnic lunch on the banks of the Contoocook River. Waterfront parks and riverwalks in Peterborough and Jaffrey offer the easiest access. Another attractive riverfront park can be found in Antrim, along Great Brook.

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