Discover the 7 Most Remote Spots in New Hampshire And How to Get There Safely

New Hampshire is a tiny state packed with some of the most beautiful natural spots a person can find. It is breathtakingly peaceful, and the air is crisp and clean. Obviously, our secluded spots mentioned in this article will never hold a candle to those known only to locals, and it should remain that way. After all, if too many people go flocking to a secluded place, it isn’t quite so secluded any longer. The remote New Hampshire places discussed in this article are definitely some of the most secluded spots in the state, though you will need to determine exactly what the exact locations are that you find the most comforting and secluded and also how to sefly get there. Everyone is a bit different when it comes to their ideas of peace and relaxation. We hope this article helps you find yours. Happy hiking!

7. Umbagog Lake State Park

Location: 235 East Route 26 Cambridge, Errol, NH 03579

*Before deciding to visit the park, check out the linked website. The park is “at your own risk” at all times, but especially in the offseason when the gates may be closed, and the park is not staffed in case of emergencies.

Within the state park during the open season, there are remote camping sites, cabins, and typical electrical hookup sites available. If visitors crave a truly remote experience, there is plenty to choose from. Make sure to always proceed with an experienced camper and hiker familiar with the wilderness. It is easy to get turned around once you leave the trail. Transportation is offered for those choosing to camp at a remote site. Boats and kayaks can also be rented in the more public areas of the park.

6. Star Island and the Isles of the Shoals

Location: In order to spend the night on Star Island, you must either be attending a conference or be part of the retreat program in which you stay at a motel with shared bathrooms. The island is accessible by ferry from Portsmouth or Rye. There is also a boat that leaves from Gosport Harbor.

*Star Island is remote due to the fact that it is only accessible by boat. This does not mean it is without people. Many people enjoy vacationing on the lake in warmer weather, but caution must be used. It is a far trip to the nearest medical facility, and the island is without mainland comforts. It is not remote, like many of the wildernesses discussed in this article, but definitely worth mentioning. Make sure to follow the protocol in order to be able to spend the night on the island. Otherwise, you will be headed back to the mainland or fined.

Star Island was built on Unitarian Universalism and the United Church of Christ. It has plenty of nature conventions and summer work programs available. It is seven miles off the coast of New Hampshire and Maine in the Isle of Shoals, which has a total of nine islands, with four of those falling in the New Hampshire area. Appledor Island may be the largest of the islands, but it has a lot to offer those interested in nature.

5. Sheldrick Forest

Location: 26-198 Town Farm Rd, Wilton, NH 03086

This is a great place for an escape day. They do not allow camping, bikes, or pets. You must only bring what you need and go on foot. The forest is protected and maintained by the Nature Conservancy. Inside the forest are 3 miles of trails on 227 acres of forest. The trees in the forest are untouched by logging companies with the help of conservationists. Some of the trees reach 30 inches in diameter and are well over 200 years old. This may not be the farthest you can get from civilization in remote New Hampshire, but it is certainly filled with seclusion.

4. Squam Lake

Location: 534 US Route 3, Holderness, New Hampshire

At times, the lake can get some tourist action due to its Hollywood debut in The Golden Lake, but there are plenty of opportunities to experience the lake in a more remote way. There are islands within the large lake that allow camping. This is your best bet to enjoy remote New Hampshire on the lake. Be sure to check out the sites and reservations before making the trip. The most scenic way to enjoy the lake and islands is to bring your kayak, though small motorized boats are permitted.

3. Mink Brook Nature Preserve

Location: 11 Brook Rd, Hanover, NH 03755

The nature wonderland of Minkbrook Nature Preserve isn’t as big as many parks, but it is worthwhile. It is not a popular park, except with people who love a scenic day hike. The long, narrow bridge on one of the trails is really neat, and on the trail sites online, it has received rave reviews from all who’ve made the trip. The thick forest is alive with owls, hawks, deer, and other wildlife. The trail is also accessible for wheelchairs and strollers, making it easier for most to enjoy it.

2. Pondicherry Wildlife Refuge

Location: 89 Airport Road, Whitefield, NH 03598

There are nine miles of beautiful trails within the wildlife refuge, and the views from the pond and swamps are amazing. It was named the first important bird area in New Hampshire in 1973. The tranquility of the lowland spruce and fir forests can breathe life into anyone’s tired soul. They do not permit camping, but it makes for an amazing day hike destination in remote New Hampshire.

1. Pemigewasset Wilderness Area

Location: Start at the Lincoln Woods Visitors Center and trailhead on Kancamagus Hwy, Lincoln, NH 03251

This is the ultimate and most remote location in New Hampshire. The park is a massive 45,000 acres and has 60 miles of maintained hiking trails. This area was once the largest logging area of White Mountain but has since become a majestic hiking area for the best hikers out there. There are also some shorter trails if being deep in a remote wilderness for days isn’t your idea of fun. Make sure to do your homework and bring a map and a backup map in case you find yourself lost. The views from the peaks are absolutely amazing and well worth the trouble of the trip’s tenacious hike. It truly is a wonderful place but go when the weather is decent.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Corey T. Burns/iStock via Getty Images