The second item on our list is haunted attractions. Believe it or not, NH boasts numerous, well-established “haunted” venues for the Halloween thrill-seekers who are too old for trick-or-treating. Last year a group of VISTAs and I went to Haunted Acres in Candia NH. There were five attractions and lots of spooky actors in costumes. I have heard that Spooky World in Litchfield is even bigger and better than Haunted Acres, though I have never been. Check out all of NH’s haunted attractions and hayrides at the link below: http://www.nh.com/fall-fun
The third item on our list is fall hiking. This is my favorite time of year to go hiking. It’s not too hot and the views are spectacular when the foliage is in full bloom. Having grown up in Keene, I am admittedly biased about this topic because I think nearby Mt. Monadnock is the best fall hike around. Located in Jaffrey, NH, Monadnock has at times topped the charts as the most frequently climbed mountain in the world. I can see why people come from all over to visit. There are numerous trails to the peak with varying difficulties, and the top of the mountain is not so high that it freezes early in the year as do many of the mountains in the Whites. Be warned though, it will be chilly at the top this time of year, so bring an extra layer if you are headed up this season. Despite my biased love for Mt. Monadnock, there are other amazing trails and hidden places to explore on foot in NH. Definitely check out this link below to find the best hikes in NH. http://www.everytrail.com/best/hiking-new-hampshire
The is a photo I took approaching the summit of Mt. Monadnock on a late-fall hike. If you are planning to climb in November or later I would suggest bringing Yaktrax or some other icetraction device for your boots.
No matter what you choose to spend your time doing this season, remember to enjoy yourself. Being a VISTA can be stressful at times and finding a little bit of time to unwind with an inexpensive activity can go a long way toward keeping you healthy. In any case, these last few glimpses of fall sunshine will have to tide you over for the next five months as the days begin to shorten and the cold weather sets in, so consider making the most of it while fall is still here!