Umbagog, Errol and Other New Hampshire Spots for Great Dates in the Middle of Nowhere

I grew up in Maine, and in high school, soon after I got my license, my stomping grounds consisted of the White Mountains around Bethel, Maine - home of the Sunday River Ski Resort, and parts of New Hampshire. Whether you're a tourist or a local, the farmland, mountains and notch-roads create a beautiful backdrop, and I spent a lot of time exploring the region. When I got a girlfriend, she joined me on these excursions, and a happy accident turned into one of the best dates of my life. If you're in the area, you may want to pretend to "discover" this sequence of events, too - you'll have an unforgettable day.

Route 26 crosses the Maine/New Hampshire border near Umbagog Lake. The mountainous road, while narrow and quaint, is well-maintained and frequented by logging trucks. I'd avoid it if you're in a hurry, as the road turns frequently, and there's no way to get past one of these lumbering behemoths - if you're following my advice, though, you're not on the road in a hurry, but for the drive. Craggy outcroppings and scenic vistas abound. Take the time to get out and explore one of the many overlooks or trailheads along the road. Perhaps you'll want to pack a snack or a bottle of wine to enjoy here int eh great outdoors - don't pack a lunch, though, I've got that covered. The signs regarding moose don't lie - people die when they hit these beasts, so drive carefully and keep a sharp eye out.

Umbagog is well-known by boaters, campers, and hunters as a wilderness paradise, and 26 follows the shoreline and abuts the Umbagog State Park. Campers might want to consider spending a couple days here, where deer, bear, and moose abound. If you have time, a short detour along the Mountain Pond Road will bring you right up to the edge of this pristine lake, and is a beautiful diversion.