Take A Great Summer Vacation At Lake Winnepesaukee

Lake Winnepesaukee, located in the mountain area of New Hampshire, is the largest lake in the Granite State. It spans a massive 21 miles in length and ranges up to 9 miles in width.

This is one of my favorite spots in this great state, and is one of the most popular of all New Hampshire vacation spots. Summer brings tourists from all parts of the country, anxious to have fun in the sun.

The beauty here is amazing. Surrounded by mountains, charming New England towns, and evergreens, this area offers a certain peace that only nature can provide. The lake is still and very calm in the early morning hours and at dusk, and the sunset is spectacular.

During the day, Lake Winnepesaukee becomes an active playground with much to offer. Naturally, water activities are popular here. Jetskis and boats of all sizes take over the lake, and waterskiing, wakeboarding, and tubing are favorite sports. Anchored boats are scattered throughout the waters as vacationers fish, sunbathe, and swim in the clean New England water.

Whether you prefer sand bars or beach bars, Lake Winnepesaukee has it. You can dock your boat and spend the day shopping in a quaint waterfront town, go out for dinner, stop for ice cream, or just spend the day cruising and taking in the hot summer sun.

Boaters who visit here during the summer holidays are in for a special treat. The Fourth of July festivities on the "big lake" include many fireworks displays, which are great when viewed on land but absolutely incredible when viewed by boat. And the annual Labor Day party at Green's basin brings beautiful yachts into this northern section of the lake.

For those who love to frolic in the sand, there are many public and private beaches. The water is clean, and the view is breathtaking. Weirs Beach, known for its boardwalk, is a great place to swim, sunbathe, and watch the parade of boats that pass under the bridge to Paugus Bay. Here you can take a charter for a sunset cruise on the lake, or jump on the Mount Washington for an evening of dining and dancing. Railroad fans can enjoy a round trip excursion on the ice cream train.

If you're looking for family activities, you won't be disappointed. Fun adventures along the lake include mini golf courses (our favorite, Pirate's Cove), arcades (FunSpot has the best value), laser tag (available at Weir's Beach), horseback riding (Castle in the Clouds has a beautiful mountain trail), and the Weirs Beach drive in theatre. Dining choices range from fast food to fine restaurants, and there are several places where you can make your own sundae.

Daytrip options are bountiful in the lakes region. Families with small children are delighted by StoryLand in Glen, NH, a mini theme park based on classic children's stories. Clark's Trading Post is also a favorite. The dancing bear show fascinates children and adults alike. For those who like to make the most of their days, I recommend a morning visit to Clark's, followed by an afternoon ride along the nearby Kangamagus Highway. Here you can stop to picnic, hike, swim in the river, and enjoy the serenity and beauty of this White Mountains area.

If you're awed by the incredible majesty of the White Mountains, be sure to plan a day to "climb" Mount Washington. We find the auto road to be the best method for us, but you can also arrive at the top via the Cog Railway or the old fashioned way, by foot! Once you've arrived you can visit the museum, shop at the gift shop, and enjoy a meal at the restaurant. What you will most remember, though, is the time spent "on top of the world". Mount Washington is the highest peak in the Northeast, and boasts 100 mile views.

A daytrip to Mount Washington takes a bit of planning. Regardless of the weather at the base of the mountain, you should be prepared for anything at the top, including snow. This mountain is home to the fastest winds ever recorded on earth, and has the reputed "world's worst weather". But don't let that deter you from taking this trip; trust me when I tell you that you'll love it!

Cascading waterfalls are a highlight of the Flume Gorge, where visitors are able to stroll along bridges that have been built within a breathtaking natural gorge. This is a self guided trip that offers gorgeous mountain views and spectacular forest scenery.

Shoppers flock to North Conway, about an hour from Lake Winnipesaukee, to the huge outlet mall area. Those who prefer quaint New England specialty and gift shops will find much to choose from along the shores of the lake. Be sure to visit Wolfeboro, the oldest summer resort area in America, for unique shops and a charming experience. The town docks enable boaters a chance to get off the water to grab a bite to eat or shop.

Visitors to Lake Winnipesaukee have many choices for accommodations. There are many bed and breakfast facilities, luxurious resorts, hotels, cottages, and campgrounds. Be sure to make reservations for your trip, as many of these fill to their capacity during the summer months.

With so much to offer, it's no wonder that Lake Winnipesaukee is a popular summer vacation destination. Once you try it you'll most likely want to return year after year.