A Family Adventure in New Hampshire’s Monadnock Region

This summer, our family set out to explore New Hampshire’s Monadnock Region as part of a partnership with Visit Monadnock. What we discovered is that this corner of the state is the perfect destination for active families. Between the hiking, biking, farm adventure, and family-friendly attractions, we barely scratched the surface of what the region has to offer.

What is the Monadnock Region?

The Monadnock Region is located in the southwest corner of New Hampshire, centered around the iconic Mount Monadnock, one of the most climbed mountains in the world. But it’s more than just a mountain - this area includes charming small towns like Keene, Jaffrey, and Peterborough, plus countless lakes, forests, and cultural gems. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures or downtown strolls, it’s a beautiful spot for families to slow down and connect.

Our Family-Friendly Itinerary

Friday: Arrival at the Inn at East Hill Farm

We kicked off our trip at East Hill Farm, an all-inclusive, family-focused getaway at the base of Mount Monadnock. From the moment we arrived, the staff made us feel at home. We toured the property, swam in one of their three pools, and sat down to a hearty turkey dinner. That evening, the kids loved the glow party that was fun with dancing, lights, and plenty of energy burned off before bed. 

View from the pool in front of our room at East Hill Farm in Troy, NH

East Hill Farm had animals to meet, amazing meals (all included), and family-friendly activities.

Saturday: Farm Fun and Downtown Keene

After a made-to-order breakfast (literally anything you can dream up), the kids jumped into farm life. They had the option to milk cows and goats, pet bunnies, pet goats, and check in on the chickens. We spent the morning pedaling a boat around the farm’s pond and joining activities like ice cream making and friendship bracelet crafts. Lunch was included before we packed up and headed to Keene.

Our first stop in town was the Keene Bike Park, a pump-track-style park where the kids zipped around on bikes and scooters. Then we checked into the Carriage Barn Inn, a cozy inn right in downtown Keene. We explored the charming shops, grabbed burgers and fries at Fritz, and treated ourselves to frozen yogurt at YOLO Café. To top it all off, we listened to live music at the town bandstand - a perfect summer night in Keene.

Keene had a ton to offer - shops, food, culture, and nature.

Sunday: Mount Monadnock & Spofford Lake

We set alarms for an early start to hike Mount Monadnock. Parking reservations are required ($16) at the park headquarters, so we reserved in advance. We hiked the White Dot Trail up and descended the White Cross Trail. It is a 3.9-mile loop with 1,774 feet of elevation gain. It’s a challenging climb with open slab and spots that require a bit of fancy footwork, but our family made it to the summit and back in about four hours. The views stretched across all of New England and were worth every step.

Afterward, we celebrated with giant portions of ice cream at Kimball Farm in Jaffrey, then headed to Ware’s Grove Beach on Spofford Lake. Non-resident admission costs a small fee, but it was well worth it: a sandy beach, concessions, playground, and warm, clear water with a sandy bottom made it a family favorite.

That evening, we returned to Keene and had dinner at Buba Noodle Bar. The kids devoured bao dumpling sandwiches and crab rangoon spring rolls, while Matt and I enjoyed pho and ramen. 

Mt Monadnock is a challenging, yet rewarding climb.

This small ice cream from Kimballs was HUGE!

Monday: Bookshops & Rail Trails

On our final morning, we checked out of the inn and enjoyed a hearty breakfast at Yellow Bell Café. Before heading home, we stopped at Toadstool Bookshop, an independent bookstore where the kids picked out new reads. Our last adventure was biking a section of the Ashuelot Recreational Rail Trail, a flat, scenic path perfect for families. 

Delicious huevos rancheros at Yellow Bell Cafe

Best Things to Do with Kids in the Monadnock Region

If you’re planning your own family trip, here are some highlights we recommend:

• Stay at East Hill Farm – a perfect mix of farm fun, activities, and relaxation for families.

• Hike Mount Monadnock – best for older kids who can handle a moderately challenging hike.

• Swim at Ware’s Grove Beach – sandy shores, playground, and clear lake water.

• Bike the Keene Rail Trail – flat and family-friendly, great for all ages.

• Visit Keene Bike Park – a fun spot for kids on bikes or scooters.

• Explore downtown Keene – from live music on the green to shops and kid-approved eats like Fritz and YOLO Café.

• Pick out books at Toadstool Bookshop – a cozy local spot perfect for rainy-day browsing.

• NEXT TIME - We didn't get a chance to visit the Keene Children's Museum, participate in the rail trail passport program, or visit some of the other, small hikes in the area. I'd also love to go back and visit the town of Peterborough because I've heard such good things! 

  

  Swimming at Ware's Grove Beach was a big hit.

  
  

  

  We could have easily spent a week at East Hill Farm - so many activities!

  
  

Why Families Will Love the Monadnock Region

This trip proved that the Monadnock Region is a playground for active families. From swimming and biking to hiking one of the most famous peaks in the world, there’s something for every age and ability level. Add in charming towns, delicious food, and family-friendly accommodations, and it’s a destination we can’t wait to return to.

We only just began to uncover all that this region has to offer, and we’re already planning our next trip back.  Visit Freelance Adventurer or Visit Monadnock instagram for more photos and videos!

You might also enjoy these similar adventures:

- Family Friendly Northern White Mountains Weekend 

- 24 Hour Affordable Getaway in the White Mountains with Kids

- Ogunquit Maine for Families

A Trip to Greenleaf Hut with Appalachian Mountain Club

I was lucky enough to take part in a guided hut trip with the Appalachian Mountain Club!  This is not my first trip to the high huts.  I worked for AMC from 2007-2010 and regularly took groups to the area.  This felt like a coming home as well as a reawakening to the many possibilities of the mountains and how much the AMC contributes to my hiking happiness.  

Check out the three day guided trip to Greenleaf Hut
 with Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC) in the White Mountains.

If you'd like to do a guided trip, check out both the free (day hikes) and pay (overnight) trips offered by the club here.

Don't need a guide?  Book your own stay at Greenleaf Hut or another AMC facility.

Before you book, become a member.  Members get 20% off their stay as well as other discounts and benefits!

Read on to learn how to have a memorable 
adventure with AMC at Greenleaf Hut in 
the White Mountains of New Hampshire.

Here's how to recreate this adventure...

Day 1:  The AMC Highland Center at Crawford Notch.

I arrived at AMC Highland Center in the heart of the White Mountains of New Hampshire around 5:30 pm.  Just in time for happy hour in the living room!  It was a rainy night, but the field of lupine in front of the lodge made for a welcome site.  I was given a name tag, checked into my private room/private bath, and mingled and met the rest of the group at happy hour.  

Enjoyed my first night at the Highland Center in Crawford Notch.

At 6 pm, we moved to the dining room where we enjoyed a delicious lodge dinner - served buffet style.  After dinner, we convened in one of the classrooms.  Our guides facilitated introductions, went over the hiking plan, and what we needed to pack.  Next, we were shown to the basement LL Bean gear room.  This is available to guests and participants.  It has everything from high quality hiking boots, fleeces, sleeping bags, backpacks, and more.  Many of the participants borrowed packs, boots, and rain gear.  Around 8:30 pm, we departed to our personal rooms to pack, shower, and rest up for the next day's hike.

All your gear needs will be met in the LL Bean room
available free for guests at AMC facilities.

Day 2: Hiking to Greenleaf Hut

I woke up and packed, then headed downstairs for a hearty breakfast from the lodge cafeteria. We got a weather update and set out.  Our trailhead was a short drive away.  We were offered to either be transported by van or travel alone.  I took my car to cut down on the next day's drive.

We arrived at the Old Bridle Path trailhead in Franconia Notch around 8 am.  Our lead naturalist, Nancy, gave a rundown on some of the flora and fauna we might see on the trail and we took off at a moderate pace. 

Trailhead - 2.9 miles to our destination.

 A ways up the trail, we reached a section that was being worked on by the Appalachian Mountain Club's professional trail crew.  I was amazed to see their beautiful work and learned about the "Restoring the Ridge" project - a collaboration between the federal government and Appalachian Mountain club - to preserve this iconic loop hike for generations to come.  We also learned that our AMC membership helps this project!  

AMC professional trail crew makes steps
that will last generations and handle thousands
of yearly visitors and harsh weather.

This project combines federal dollars with
AMC funds from your membership.

Soon, we popped out onto a ledge.  While the Franconia ridge above was still in the clouds, we were able to see views of the valley below.  While taking a restful snack break, our naturalist brought our attention to various bird calls.

We take a break along Old Bridle Path.

The trail got steeper as we approached the hut.  When we got to Greenleaf hut, it was hugged by a cloud.  Now, around 1 pm, we were ready for our trail lunch (given/packed by the Highland Center kitchen).  After choosing a bunk in the hut, we sat on the porch and enjoyed our lunch.  

Bunks come with a pillow and three wool blankets. 
Bring sheets or sleeping sack/bag.

We still had plenty of time until dinner, so even though the visibility wasn't great, we decided to summit Mt Lafayette.  Hoping the clouds would clear by the time we got up there, we continued up into the alpine zone.  Nancy pointed out new plants off the trail.  In about an hour, we reached the ridgeline.  Unfortunately, there was no view due to clouds and mist, but that's ok.  We descended off Lafayette, back to the hut.  

We were treated to an informative talk about the climate science done by AMC scientists as well as their citizen science programs.  We also learned about the hut systems that makes it sustainable in the peaks.

Greenleaf Hut is run by Appalachian Mountain Club. 
In summer, it is a full service hut with bathrooms, meals, and beds.  Reserve online.

Dinner was multiple courses - served family style at long tables. You won't go hungry!  The food was both delicious and plentiful.  After dinner, guests read from the library, played games, and chatted before quiet hours at 9:30 pm.  Around sunset, the clouds cleared and we were treated to views of the magnificent Franconia Ridge!  It was a welcome site for guests and staff!

Day 3: Summit views and hiking down

The hut croo (yes, that's how they spell it), woke us up to some soft singing at 6:30 am.  We got up, dressed, and packed and then had a delicious breakfast in the dining room at 7 am.  After breakfast, the group discussed our goals.  Half of the group was ready to take Bridle Path down to return home before noon.  Some of us (me included), wanted to summit Mt Lafayette once more to get a summit view.  With multiple leaders, we were able to split the group.

Morning light streams in at Greenleaf hut -
laid out for breakfast.

As our group moved up the mountain, the clouds came rolling back in.  Fortunately for us, however, we were able to get a ridge view (with clouds) from the top.  

Arguably Mt Lafayette is one of the best views in the White Mountains.

After a leisurely summit break, our small group worked our way back to the hut.  After a bathroom break, we chose to take a different trail down - the Greenleaf Trail.  Some highlights of this trail included mossy "fairy forest" and Eagle cliff.  

Our guides brought us back to our cars two exits down the road.  It was a sunny, warm summer day and couldn't have been a better end to the trip.

Eagle Cliff along the Greenleaf Trail

Want to try this experience?

Go to AMC activities, and check out the backpacking options.

or

Hike yourself without a guide!  Book your hut stay!

and

Become a member to support the trail work, science, and recreation by Appalachian Mountain Club.

Want to see more video and photos from this trip? Check out more on my instagram account the @freelanceadventurer

Highly recommend going on a guided trip with Appalachian Mountain Club.

You might also like these adventures:

Carter Notch Hut in Winter
Lonesome Lake - Perfect Family Hike
24 Hour Affordable Getaway in the White Mountains

24 Hour Affordable Family Getaway to White Mountains

 

I've been trying to squeeze the very last leaf drop out of fall in the Whites.  Fall foliage "season" is my favorite time of the year, so it probably was surprising that I spent three consecutive weekends in the White Moutains in October.  For our last, and final, weekend of the foliage season - the kids and I made a quick one-nighter.  To save dollars, I booked a private room at the Conway Hostel.  I paired this with playground, hikes, nature trail, and kid (and parent) friendly food.  

Here's how to recreate this adventure:  

Adventure: 24 Hour Affordable Family Getaway in the White Mountains

Saturday Drive

11:30 am - We left our home in Seacoast, New Hampshire around 11:30 am.  On fall weekends, my son has soccer.  So we enjoyed a leisurely morning, returned home from soccer and packed up the car and took off.  We took Highway 16 north and stopped at the Ossipee McDonalds for lunch.  There was still leaves on many of the trees (October 22), however the colors were mainly yellows and browns, and not the reds and oranges people love the most.

Hike Arethusa Falls

1:30 pm - We arrived at the parking lot for Arethusa Falls.  This is a highly trafficked hike in Crawford Notch State Park.  I was prepared for overflow parking and had warned the kids we might have to go to Plan B if the parking was all full.  We were fine.  The later day arrival ensured most people had already hiked it and there was plenty of parking.  There is a $5 fee payed to the "iron ranger" for use of this state park lot.  Bring cash in exact change!

The kids did an awesome job on this hike.  It is 2.8 miles and 780 feet of elevation gain.  To date, this is the biggest hike my four year old has done without assistance.  She rocked it!  We took a lot of breaks and I had snacks and treats for the way up.  Arethusa Falls is the largest waterfall in New Hampshire and one of my favorite kid friendly hikes in the Whites.  We reached the falls around 3:30 pm - just as the sun set behind the canyon - leaving the falls in the shadows.

The kids loved the waterfall and flew back down the trail.  We were back to the car by 4:30 pm.

Arethusa Falls, October 22, 2022

Dinner at Moat Mountain Smokehouse and Brewery

"The Moat" is my favorite post-hike spot in the Whites.  However, it's a favorite of many and long waits are expected.  However, we hit the sweet spot arriving at 5:15pm.  We snagged one of the last free tables.  The kids enjoyed hot dogs off the kids menu, while I savored one of my favorite beers and a delicious sandwich.  When we left around 6:15 pm, there was a line out the door. 

Conway Hostel

I wasn't sure what to expect with the Conway Hostel.  I had hosteled quite a bit in my twenties and knew it could be a crap shoot.  However, for $100, guests at CoHo can get a private family room.  It was worth a try.  We were greeted by employee Brad who checked us in, gave us a tour, and showed us our room.  It was WONDERFUL!  We had a beautiful room, with comfy made beds, and fresh towels.  The shared bathroom was clean and bright.  The kids adored the common living room where they could play foosball, do a coloring sheet, or play one of the many board games.  A few quiet guests were making dinner in the communal kitchen.  I realized making dinner at the hostel would have been a way to make this stay even more affordable!

Conway Hostel had a private room with a
queen and bunk beds.  We loved it!

We snuggled into our beds around 8:30pm and had a great night sleep.  In the morning, the kids wanted to hang out in the living room again, spin on the porch hammock seats, and finish their coloring pages.  I took advantage of the complimentary coffee and breakfast (breakfast bars, oatmeal, toast, etc).

We packed up and left CoHo, all hoping we would be back soon.

Conway Hostel was clean, welcoming, and comfortable!

The Met and Playground

10:30 am - I drove us into downtown North Conway.  We parked right on the White Mountain Highway (main drag) near the Conway Scenic Train Station.  This way, we were walking distance to coffee and playground.  We went into The Met Coffeehouse for "second breakfast".  The kids got fruit and bagels and I got a bagel sandwich and a large coffee.  After our food was done, we walked over the the playground.  My kids really love this spot.  They played happily while I finished my coffee and watched the trains from a distance.  

Rocky Gorge

11:30 am - I decided to take the kids to one of our favorite pullouts on the Kancamagus Highway - Rocky Gorge Scenic Area.  Parking here is $5 to the national forest.  It is paid to an iron ranger so bring exact change.  We walked down the paved path and crossed the bridge.  From here we walked down toe Falls Pond.  The total distance is probably a quarter mile from the parking lot.  The kids loved throwing stick bits in the pond while I marveled at the perfect reflection.  From there, we returned to the river where the kids enjoyed rock hopping along the edge.  

Falls Pond - less than a half mile from the Rocky Gorge parking area.

12:00 pm  - Around noon, we left!  The kids fell asleep pretty quickly on the ride home.  It was an awesome quick trip!

Recommendations

This trip was a great way to round out our fall foliage season in the Whites.  The highlight was definitely the comfy stay at the Conway Hostel so we plan to return.  For those looking for a single bunk - the shared bunk room is $30.  They also have other private room options for couples, dog owners, and groups.  We could have saved money by bringing food and cooking our dinner in the kitchen.  It was well stocked with cookery, dishes, etc.  

Although we were fine, we passed multiple families on our way down from Arethusa Falls who were not prepared to hike in the dark.  I always carry headlamps as part of the 10 essentials.  We had to warn them that they might now make it.  Although Arethusa Falls is easy-moderate by White Mountain standards, it's still a climb so know your abilities and plan ahead.

Hosteling made this trip very affordable!

For similar posts, check out:

- 24 Hour Getaway in Bretton Woods, White Mountains

- Five Family Friendly Hikes in the White Mountains

- 3 Easy and Stunning Fall Foliage Hikes in the White Mountains

24 hour affordable family stay in North Conway, NH of the White Mountains

White Mountains One Night Backpack: Mount Isolation

Want to check off another 4,000 footer while spending the night in the Presidentials?  So did I!  Tackling Mt. Isolation as an over-nighter turned out to be the perfect one night backpack in the White Mountains.  

Here's how to recreate this adventure...

Adventure

One night backpacking trip on Mt. Isolation in the White Mountains

Getting there

This hike starts from the Rocky Branch Trailhead on Route 16 in Pinkham Notch, New Hampshire.  To get there, take Route 16/White Mountain Highway north through North Conway.  Where 302 and 16 split, take a right and continue on NH-16 into Pinkham Notch.  After about 8 miles, turn left onto Popple Mount Trail.  The parking lot is a good size and is free to park.  It is possible that it will fill on busy summer weekends so plan accordingly.  

Many river crossings on Isolation Trail

Trail

The total mileage for this backpack is 13.3 miles and 3,503 ft of elevation gain.  It is an out and back hike that includes three different trails to summit. Overall, this hike is moderate difficulty. Terrain is not technical.  Although there are many river crossings, in July of 2022 when I did it, water was generally low and it was easy to rock hop across. It is possible to do a similar hike by making it an *almost* loop.  See below under recommendations for this alternate.

Part 1 - Rocky Branch Trail

The first part of this backpack is a stead climb up the Rocky Branch Trail.  The trail is well marked (yellow blazes) and climbs through deciduous hardwood forest.  We saw moose scat and even saw a moose!  I startled it by accident about 20 yards away and never got another look. There is no real water access along this portion of the trail.  At 3.7 miles from the trailhead, Rocky Branch reaches a junction with Isolation Trail.

Part 2 - Isolation Trail

Rocky Branch trail crosses the Rocky Branch River at 3.7 miles.  Immediately after, there is a well marked trail junction sign.  To continue to Mt. Isolation, turn right.  Over the next 2.6 miles of trail, hikers parallel the Rocky Branch River and cross it many times. The trail is well marked and easy to follow will only slight elevation gain.  It is this section of trail that is best for dispersed camping. I noticed many impacted dispersed sites along this section of the trail as well as trodden spur trails that led to other sites.  One of the largest was just after the second river crossing on the opposite side of the river.  Further on, there was an official sign indicating a spot to disperse camp on the west side of the river.  My friend Kelsey and I scoped multiple sites along the way, planning on picking one that would best fit our needs on our descent. 

Part 3 - Davis Path

After 2.6 miles on the Isolation Trail (6.3 total), the trail reaches an intersection with the Davis Path.  From here, take a left and climb the moderate climb 0.9 miles to the summit of Mt. Isolation. The spur trail to the summit is on the right and not marked so don't miss it!  Climb the sport spur and enjoy expansive views of the Presidentials including Mt. Washington.  

Water break on Isolation Trail

Part 4 - Descend and Find Camp

As we descended, we discussed our favorite places we had scoped to disperse camp.  We ended up deciding on a small plateau about 300 feet off the final river crossing of the Rocky Branch river on the Isolation Trail.  This spot was chosen due to it's proximity to a deep "swimming hole" next to a massive boulder.  My hiking companion, Kelsey, loves to swim when hiking and she was excited to chill out here.  We found an already impacted site and evidence of an old fire ring off trail and a flat spot just big enough for our tent.  We set up camp and did our cooking (using a backcountry stove) down by the river to keep food smells away from where we slept.  At night, we put all food, smelly toiletries like toothpaste, and trash in my Ursack Bear-proof bag and hung it down by the river away from our tent.  In the morning, we had breakfast, packed up and hiked out.

Dispersed campsite on Isolation Trail

Rules and Regulations

Disperse Camping

You do not need a permit to hike and camp in this region. Disperse camping is camping outside a designated campground or tentsite.  It is not allowed everywhere so make sure you know the rules and regulations of the area you are planning to camp.  The section of trail we camped (Isolation Trail) is in the Dry River Wilderness that is part of the White Mountain National Forest.  Rules for this area are:

• Limit group size to 10 people
• Camp at designated sites OR at least 200 feet away from trail, water source, or campground.
• No mechanized equipment is allowed

You can learn more about these rules on the US Forest Service Website.

In addition, it's important to practice Leave No Trace including the proper disposal of human waste and removal of all toilet paper and trash.

Water was easily accessible from the river, but it is important to treat water since it can harbor pathogens and bacteria - even in the wilderness.  I used the Sawyer Squeeze as my main form of water treatment.  

Lastly, I recommend purchasing and carrying a New Hampshire Hike Safe Card.  For $25 a year, you are covered financially if you need to be rescued.

Swimming hole near camp * It was very cold*

Gear and Apparel

For a summer one night backpack in the White Mountains I brought the following:

• 10 Essentials - My choices for products are on my Hiking Necessities List.  This includes first aid, hat, compass, headlamp, and more
• Tent and Tent Accessories
• Trekking Poles
• Sleeping Bag
• Sleeping Pad
• Stove, Pot, Fuel
• Bear Bag
• Food for Dinner, Breakfast, Lunch and Snacks
• Bag with electronics: Charger, cord, lantern
• Clothes: Rain gear, puffy coat/mid layer, sun shirt, base layer/sleeping layer, extra underwear and socks, extra shorts, camp shoes (crocs)
• Trash bag
• Water filter
• Poo trowel, toilet paper, and bags to hike out with it
• Toiletries: Sunscreen, bug spray, toothbrush, toothpaste
• Deck of cards

For questions about gear, DM on my instagram and I'm happy to provide guidance!

Summit of Mt. Isolation

Final Recommendations/Things to Consider

• This was a great one night backpack for someone who wants a quick escape.  Although I list this as a moderate climb, it is still a 4,000 footer in the White Mountains and challenging compared to flatland hiking.  Be prepared and turn around if you are above your ability level.
• Always tell someone your plan.  For safety, carry the 10 essentials.  You will not have cell service for most of this hike although I did have 2 bars on the summit of Mt. Isolation.
• To make this a sort of loop, hikers can ascend via the Glen Boulder Trail and descend on Rocky Branch.  This would mean either having two cars or having a couple mile road walk up NH-16 back to your car.
• In order to reduce weight while summiting, you can set up your camp and then ascend with a "slack pack".  We originally planned to do this but then changed our minds in case we found a better campsite on the Davis Path.  Now we know that all the good camp spots are along the Isolation Trail near the brook.
• Be aware of wildlife.  We startled a moose!

You might also like these adventures:

- One night on Mt Liberty
- Carter Notch One Nighter in Winter
- Mt Garfield One Night Backpack

Spring Family Weekend in the White Mountains

 Spring in the White Mountains is a shoulder season.  While the cherry blossoms and tulips are blooming in southern New England, northern New Hampshire is just beginning to thaw.  As a result, tourists keep their distance until late June and it's a quiet place to visit.  That said, this can be a perfect time to take advantage of low-season accommodations, quiet trails, and an awakening of life in the mountains.  Here's a rundown of my spring family weekend in the White Mountains.

Dates

Early May to late June are off-season in the White Mountains.  If you go when we did, the first weekend in May (Mother's Day weekend), you'll likely beat the black flies, see some great wildflowers, experience rushing waterfalls, and find empty trailheads.  The downside is, trees are usually still bare and trail conditions are unpredictable - with possible mud and even snow.

Location

We LOVED our vacation rental.  This was the second time this year I booked a stay with Bretton Woods Vacations.  This family-owned business manages multiple homes in the White Mountains.  We stayed at Owls Roost - a beautiful cabin on 32 acres - complete with easy trails, mountain views, a river beach and a swimming hole.  It's also pet friendly so we brought Summit!  The house had three bedrooms, kitchen, loft playroom, living room, fire pit, and deck.

Our rental cabin Owls Roost by Bretton Woods Vacations

We ate all our meals at the rental

Activities

Bretton Woods is located just north of Crawford Notch State Park in the White Mountain wilderness.  It's one of my favorite hiking locations.  This is because it is home to my favorite 4000 footer, New Hampshire's tallest waterfall, and a hike that has the best bang for your buck in the Whites. For this trip, I wanted to take advantage of Crawford Notch's easier hikes that my kids would enjoy but still have some awesome views.  Here were our excursions:

Kid-Friendly Hikes

Ripley Falls: Ripley Falls is a 1.2 mile out-and-back hike that climbs about 400 feet in elevation to a tall slabby waterfall.  The hike is moderately difficult - with one narrow part along a gorge that made me nervous with the little kids.  My four and six year old managed the hike totally fine with a couple snack breaks.  They loved climbing the boulders at the base of the falls and feeling the spray.  It was a perfect morning hike.  New Hampshire State Parks charges $5 to an iron ranger for parking at the trailhead.  The AllTrails link to the trailhead is here.

Ripley Falls in Crawford Notch State Park

Elephant Head: Elephant Head is a short 0.6 mile out-and-back up to a cliff in Crawford Notch.  The view is a ton of bang for your buck and a great place if you're short on time and want a view.  The trail climbs up rocks and roots on a moderately difficult trail.  Because of the short distance, my four and six year old handled it fine.  The most challenging parts for my four year old was the prevalence of decaying bog bridges that was a balancing act to traverse.  At the cliff, enjoy views of the notch both ways.  You can even see the red roofs of the iconic Mount Washington Hotel to the north.  If you have a little more time, also tag on the Around The Lake trail that's right next to it!

On Elephant Head in
Crawford Notch State Park

Ammonoosuc River:  Our rental at Bretton Woods Vacations had an easy trail system that took us to beaches and a swimming hole on the Ammonoosuc River.  This trail system is only available to those who rent one of three properties on their Moose Lodge and Cabins properties.  However, even if you aren't staying there, you can enjoy this river and it's short. Try the Ammonoosuc River Loop - a 2 mile, easy trail that grants views and access to the river.

Playing on the sandy beach at the
Ammonoosuc River at our rental property

AMC Highland Center Playscape

One of my kids favorite parts of the trip was playing at the Appalachian Mountain Club's Highland Center Playscape.  The Highland Center is a large lodge for dining, overnight accommodations, and guided trips.  It is a prominent feature in the northern edge of Crawford Notch State Park and the main hub for multiple highly trafficked hikes.  Free to use- the center has a large wood, stone, and rope play structure that blends with the natural landscape.  My children love traversing the suspension bridge, crawling in caves, and climbing the ropes.  This free attraction is perfect for age 4-10.  Plus, there's access to bathrooms, food, and gear store in the center.  Parking is limited in the high season, but May is relatively empty.

AMC Highland Center playscape is free and fun

Pros and Cons of Bretton Woods Location

I'm frequently asked where to stay in the White Mountains region.  It really depends on what you're looking for.  If you want a bustling town with proximity to restaurants, parks, museums, and shopping - stay in North Conway - you'll get the town experience and will be close to hikes.  If you'd like quiet, nature, and don't need town - Bretton Woods is an awesome choice.  We made our own meals at the cabin, had s'mores in the fire pit, listened to the peeper frogs and saw the stars.  It was a perfect weekend for what we where looking for.  

Bretton Woods is perfect if you want to
getaway from town and into the mountains

Crawford Notch offers some great kid-friendly hiking

For more images of my spring family weekend in the White Mountains, visit my instagram for video and photos.  Happy Hiking!

You might also enjoy these posts:

5 Best Family Hikes in the Whites
24 Hour Bretton Woods Getaway
3 Great Spring Mountain Hikes in New England

24 Hour Bretton Woods Getaway

 

View from Bretton Woods Vacation Rental Living Room

Winter is long in northern New England, and I HAVE to have something to look forward to.  For me, that's a trip, but with a full time job, two kids, pets, and endless house projects - it's hard to find the time.  This winter, I decided the least I could do was plan an end-of-winter 24 hour getaway in the Bretton Woods area of the White Mountains.  I brought my sister along for hiking, skiing, margaritas, good coffee, and a hot tub.  I documented it on my social media and here's a rundown of my 24 hour Bretton Woods Getaway.

Day 1 - Drinks and Hiking

12:00 - Coffee and amazing sandwiches at The Met in North Conway.  

Coffee at the Met Coffeehouse in North Conway

1:00-3:30 pm - Hike Mount Willard in Crawford Notch State Park.  Read more about this hike here.  In winter, bring extra (non cotton) layers, snowshoes, and microspikes/snow cleats, in addition to the normal 10 essentials.

Mount Willard in Crawford Notch State Park

4:00 pm - Check into our Bretton Woods Vacation house (called 1800 ML).  Tour the house, pour a margarita and make tacos in the stocked kitchen.  Enjoy the amazing sunset on the mountains and stay up late watching movies.

Day 2 - Hot Tubs and Skiing 

8:00 am - Take a morning dip in the hot tub surrounded by fresh snow!  Sip coffee and check out to hit the slopes for first lift.

Morning dip in the hot tub outside my Bretton Woods Vacation Rental with coffee

9:00 am - Drive 5 minutes to snag a front parking spot at Bretton Woods Ski Resort - the largest ski resort in New Hampshire.  Ski fresh powder with on-and-on snow fall.  With the gondola, you never get cold!

Riding the gondola up in a snowstorm at Bretton Woods

12:00 - After nonstop morning of skiing, it's time to head back home.  

Amazing morning skiing at Bretton Woods in fresh powder

This was the perfect winter "staycation" for me in my home state of New Hampshire and one that I hope to make a early March tradition!

For similar posts to this, check out:

Family Friendly Winter Hikes in the White Mountains

Cross Country Ski in Maine, NH, and VT

Planning Guide for a Maine (or NH) Vacation