Sugar River Region Destination Guide 2026-2027

New Hampshire’s best-kept secret in all seasons

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Welcome to the Sugar River Region

If you’ve spent time in western New Hampshire, you may have passed through our region without realizing just how much is here.

The Sugar River Region has been shaped by the farms, mills, and small communities that grew up along both the Sugar and Connecticut rivers and in the valleys of Mount Ascutney and Mount Sunapee. It hasn’t always been thought of as a destination. But for those who take the time to look a little closer, there’s a genuine experience waiting to be found.

Meet local producers at you-pick farms and farm stands. Experience something delicious at local restaurants, bakeries, breweries, ice cream spots, and cafés— some well-known, others newly opened. Take on a hike from the Sugar River Region Hiking Challenge, enjoy a round on one of our three scenic golf courses, or paddle at an easy pace on one of our many lakes.

And at the end of the day, our inns and campgrounds will welcome you with genuine hospitality.

In these pages, you’ll meet some of the people who give this place its character—from a chef who has built a following over nearly two decades in a historic courthouse setting to a historian helping preserve the stories behind our covered bridges. You’ll also hear from

Warmly,

Penelope Whitman Executive Director

Discover Sugar River Region

five locals who share how they enjoy our outdoor playground.

Whether you’re here for a few days or considering a longer stay, this guide is meant to help you find your way into the experiences, businesses, and gathering places that shape daily life here. The best approach is simple: take your time, stop often, and discover what’s here. We look forward to seeing you!

Photo by Beth Rexford

This 2026/2027 guide is published by Discover Sugar River Region.

DISCOVER SUGAR RIVER REGION

Penelope Whitman Executive Director

director@sugarriverregion.org P.O. Box 165, Claremont, NH 03743 603-843-7630

sugarriverregion.org

EDITORIAL, DESIGN & PRODUCTION SERVICES

Yankee Publishing Inc.

Ernesto Burden, Publisher

Jodie Hall, Associate Publisher

Sarah Pearson, Editor of Custom Publishing

Mike Cote, Editor of NH Group

Emily Reily, Assistant Editor Nicole Huot, Senior Production Artist Christian Seyster, Production Artist

Main cover photo by Beth Rexford. Lower cover photos and table of contents photo by Zach Wallace. Paid in part by:

in this

the publisher disclaims all responsibility for

or errors.

SNEAK PEEK

Comedian Bob Marley

Blizzard of Ozz

Viva Las Elvis

The Sugar River Region

Find the path less traveled on

New Hampshire welcomes millions of visitors to its mountains and waterways each year. But if you’re looking for a destination that offers just as many opportunities with more room to breathe, the Sugar River Region is where the experience opens up.

Here there is no line for a summit view, and you’ll find plenty of parking at the boat ramp. The experience is shaped by a community commitment to the outdoors and a love of adventure. Uncover the hidden gems in the Sugar River Region with the locals who use them most. Does your perfect day include paddling quiet stretches of the Connecticut River, carving through singletrack or zipping past snow-covered pines along miles of snowmobile trails? The Play Like a Local series will guide you. Local insights include tips for getting started, navigating the local terrain and planning your trip.

All you have to do is decide what to do first.

Q&A with Kyle Harris of Newport

Quality views within hiking distance

How did you get into hiking?

I started hiking with my dad when I was probably five or six years old in the pine barrens in New Jersey. I started hiking more and more as I got older, all across the United States and around the world. I’ve done big climbs like Kilimanjaro in Africa, Mount Rainier in Washington State, the 46 peaks in the Adirondacks, which are 46 4,000-footers there. Hiking is probably one of my favorite things to do. When I decided to move out of New Jersey about two years ago, it was really important to me to find an area of the country that gave me access to a lot of hiking.

What makes hiking in the Sugar River area special?

There are a bunch of hidden gems throughout this region. While the area is not well known for hiking, there are a lot of quality trails here that you don’t see a lot of people. The spots here are just as beautiful as the more well-known hiking areas. But it’s a lot more peaceful and quiet on these trails than if you’re in the White Mountains or some of the busier areas.

The Sugar River Region Hiking Challenge

Explore 10 Sugar River Region Trails

The Sugar River Region Hiking Challenge invites you to explore 10 local hikes, each chosen for the rewarding views waiting at the top and the journey it takes to get there. You’ll enjoy quiet forest paths, climb to scenic overlooks and discover corners of the region you might never otherwise find.

Complete all 10 hikes to earn a commemorative patch! Learn about the Hiking Challenge and find more detailed trail guides at sugarriverregion.org/hiking-challenge.

Silver Mountain, Lempster

At the Ashuelot River Headwaters Forest, the trail winds through quiet woods toward open ledges speckled with quartz. The summit is broad with

sweeping views. On clear days, the Green Mountains of Vermont stretch across the western horizon, while Mount Ascutney and Monadnock appear in the distance.

Little Mount Washington, Grantham

A quiet route with a rewarding overlook, the hike to Little Mount Washington winds through the Grantham Town Forest along old logging roads and snowmobile trails. The wide, gently rolling path makes for an easy, steady climb toward the summit.

Coit Mountain and Pinnacle Loop, Newport

This 4.4-mile loop trail in Newport climbs Coit Mountain and offers two great viewpoints: the Pinnacle and the Ledge. Enjoy peace and serenity while you walk amongst the trees and old foundations.

Andrew Brook Trailhead, Newbury

A steady climb with a beautiful payoff, the Andrew Brook Trail follows the sound of moving water as it rises along the eastern slopes of Mount Sunapee. The trail weaves through forest and over rocky, root-filled terrain that keeps the hike engaging from the start.

French’s Ledges, Plainfield

A climb that builds to a wide-open reward, the French’s Ledges Trail leads to one of the region’s most expansive viewpoints. A short scramble brings you to the bald summit ledges, where sweeping views stretch wide.

Crown Point Trail, Charlestown

This short out-and-back trail commemorates the historic Crown Point Road, built in 1759-60 by the British Army and colonial militia forces commanded Gen. John Stark to connect Fort Crown Point to the Fort at No. 4.

PHOTO:

Courtesy of Kyle Harris

Kyle Harris on a hike with his dog, Cascade.

Where are your favorite local hikes?

When I initially moved to Newport, I lived across the street from the town forest, so I’d go out there with my dog for our morning walk. It’s so peaceful and quiet you don’t see a lot of people, but you get the feel of being remote when you’re really just a few blocks from downtown.

One of my favorite after-work hikes is Ledge Pond, a two-mile loop that goes around this beautiful pond in Sunapee. It’s a mix of privately owned preserved land and public land. The trail does have some rocks and roots, but the pond is just absolutely beautiful. It’s quiet, very peaceful, with a good swimming hole and a lot of old-growth trees.

Green Mountain in Claremont has a great view. It is a pretty easy hike on a maintained road that goes to some communication towers up there, but you have a great view of the city of Claremont and the valley.

French’s Ledges is also a really beautiful spot that’s pretty easy to get up to a great view as well.

A lot of these spots are at really good heights, because the amount of work to a good view is minimal. You’re going to sweat a little bit, but it’s not like you’re going to be hiking for two or three hours to get to that lookout point. It’s maybe a half hour and you’re at a really good view.

How would you describe the terrain that’s here?

It’s a real mixture. There’s some flatter sections that go around lakes and ponds that are easy hikes. Then, there are some steep trails that are really rocky and that you’re working hard to get to the top.

Then, you have the Sugar River Rail Trail that is a great trail that goes through Newport down to Claremont, which is an almost completely flat gravel trail that people of all ages and

abilities can access. And within a couple 100 yards, you’re in a remote area along a beautiful river.

When you’re going out for a hike here, what are you bringing?

I’ll be just bringing a water bottle, bug spray in the summer, and then proper footwear, because a lot of the trails are muddy and wet. If it’s been rainy, I want to make sure I have my boots on, opposed to just hiking sneakers.

What resources are available for planning a hike?

I use a couple of apps, AllTrails and Pocket Earth, to look at a lot of the trails. Sometimes I might use Google Maps just try to find the trailhead — sometimes the parking and trailheads are not well marked.

Be prepared that you might not have phone service everywhere as you go.

Unity Mountain Trail, Claremont

The Unity Mountain Trail is a 4-mile long path from the Sullivan County Complex, past a small pond and along the flanks of Unity Mountain. A scenic overlook near the summit of Unity Mountain affords hikers a spectacular view.

Five Summers Trail, Goshen

A longer, quieter outing through the heart of Pillsbury State Park, the Five Summers Trail offers a steady journey through forest before climbing to a well-earned view at Lucia’s Lookout. The rolling trail follows a wide corridor through stands of yellow birch, but becomes rockier as you near the lookout. The reward for a tough finish is an open viewpoint looking east.

Gunnison Lake/Ruth LeClair Memorial Trail, Goshen

A gentle loop around the water makes the Ruth LeClair Memorial Trail one of the Sugar River Region’s most peaceful

walks. Beginning at the parking area at the end of Gunnison Lake Access Road in Goshen, this easy trail circles the shoreline of Gunnison Lake — affectionately known by locals as the “Goshen Ocean.”

Green Mountain Trail, Claremont

The route up Green Mountain follows a gravel road through the woods, gaining elevation at an easy, consistent grade. Continue past the towers to the marked viewpoint where sweeping vistas look across eastern Vermont and southern New Hampshire. It’s the kind of view that feels unexpected after such a gentle climb.

sugarriverregion.org/hiking-challenge

Q&A with Rob Taylor of Plainfield

Explore pristine rivers and lakes bursting with wildlife

How long have you been paddling in the Sugar River region?

It began when my parents got my brothers and me a canoe for Christmas way back. We enjoyed pulling that boat out and dropping it in almost any water body we could find, including our own little backyard pond. I think that getting comfortable in a boat in a safe place was important for my future on the water.

My brothers and I would intentionally flip that canoe to practice our exit and entry skills. I also taught swim lessons during college, where we would do a boat safety unit with that same canoe. This would make it so that youngsters from my town would have lots of familiarity with water sports and recreation.

What are good areas to put in a boat?

We live in a paddler’s paradise! Some of the best paddling, in my opinion, is on the Connecticut River. There are many launches to be found from source to sea, especially in the Sugar River Region. I love

to put in at the Cornish-Windsor Covered Bridge. There is also a wonderful new ramp in Claremont on the river at Ashley Park.

I have also put in Lake Sunapee at the Harbor or at the state park beach. Last year, my girlfriend and I explored the “Goshen Ocean” (Gunnison Lake)!

Do you have any favorite paddling routes?

The Connecticut River Paddler’s Trail is a favorite of mine. I have done long, multiday routes/segments up and down the river. The trail features primitive campsites for overnight trips with friends and family. There is nothing better than relaxing on the water while taking in the breathtaking views and scenery.

What is the coolest natural feature you’ve spotted while paddling?

The stretch of the Connecticut River from Plainfield to Charlestown is unmatched for wildlife. I have seen more bald eagles here than anywhere else. A sharp eye can see several nesting pairs atop great pine trees hanging out

over the water. It is now common for an eagle to put on a show while they fish or scavenge as you paddle by.

What makes the Sullivan County area notable for paddling?

For me, it is the combination of three elements: fields, forests and the manmade (or “built”) environment. The Sugar River Region has a nice mix of all these elements, such as gorgeous farm meadows as well as great woodlands that come right to the water’s edge. Then you top it off with historic covered bridges, mills and farms, and you have a recipe for an interesting day out on the water!

What places locally would you recommend for gear, rentals or paddling guidance?

If you want someone to help you with getting boats into place and some simple safety training and gear, I recommend an “outfitter” type business such as LL Bean in Lebanon or Great River Outfitters in Windsor, Vt.

Connecticut River Paddlers’ Trail

Explore a series of primitive campsites and river access points spanning from the Connecticut River headwaters to Long Island Sound. Information, maps, recommendations and nearby outfitters can be found at connecticutriverpaddlerstrail.org

Rob Taylor and girlfriend Karyn Swett on Lake Gunnison.

PHOTOS: Courtesy of Rob Taylor

SULLIVAN COUNTY HEALTH CARE

Where Community and Caring Make the Difference

NOW OPEN: our newly rebuilt 156-bed Medicare/Medicaid facility, offering short-term rehab, long-term care, and secure memory care — all in a peaceful country setting with scenic views.

Residents enjoy a welcoming environment with amenities including a salon, chapel, library, rehab gym, medical suite, and recreation room — plus robust therapeutic recreation programming that brings joy and connection to each day.

Come take a tour, explore our services, and see what makes Sullivan County Health Care feel like home.

Derek Ferland and his children hit the snowy trails.

Q&A with Derek Ferland of Claremont

Snowmobiling an escape from cabin fever

What is the appeal of snowmobiling?

Riding a sled is a lot of fun. They are fast, and the modern equipment makes for a smoother ride with great handling on the narrower and twistier trails we have around here. It’s a great activity to make you get outside in the wintertime with friends. Being out in the deep woods and the wildlife and scenery you get to experience are also a big part of the experience.

How did you get started snowmobiling?

My older brother started tinkering around on an old 1969 or 1970 Ski-Doo Olympic that belonged to one of our uncles. We would ride in the woods on our grandparents’ property, which was adjacent to our home in Claremont. That machine was an absolute monster

for a young kid to ride … but it didn’t matter: We were hooked.

Do you have a favorite trail or route?

I love all of our local trails when the snow conditions are good.

Do any memories of something that happened while snowmobiling that really stand out to you?

Snowmobiling is weather dependent, but what month do you generally find trails in their best condition? February is probably the safest bet.

What are some of the cool scenic places a snowmobiler can access in Sullivan County?

The covered bridges on the Sugar River Rail Trail are fantastic. The outlook from Flat Rock on top of Arrowhead in Claremont is also great. There are also some great views in Unity on the Crescent Lake Sno Riders trail system.

Memories with family and friends; it’s quality time spent together with no distractions. And when you see a moose, because that is a pretty rare occurrence.

What resources do you recommend?

The best resources are the local clubs. Joining a club gets you connected to others in the area who know the trails and the small businesses that can do repairs or sell parts, supplies, clothing and other equipment you need to take care of your sled. They will also help you get connected with experienced riders who can help show you the ropes if you’ve never ridden a sled before.

Riding in Sullivan County

The Sled NH offers a digital trail map by snowmobilers for snowmobilers. Local clubs update availability and condition of the trails they manage. Plan your ride at slednh.evtrails.com

Blow-Me-Down Snow Riders

50 miles of trails in Plainfield and Cornish, which connect with Lebanon, Grantham and Claremont systems blowmedownsnowriders.com

Blue Mountain Snow Dusters

65 miles of trails in Grantham and neighboring towns facebook.com/BlueMountainSnowdusters

Crescent Lake Regional Sno-Riders

65 miles of trails in Unity and Acworth that connect to five area club systems and the statewide trail system facebook.com/groups/242138526837

Hidden Valley Sno-Riders Trails in Marlow and Lempster facebook.com/groups/407886473083632

Lake Sunapee Snowmobile Club

80 miles of trails in the Lake Sunapee region lakesunapeesnowmobileclub.org

Mascoma Valley Snow Travelers

Trails in Springfield, Wilmot and Grafton facebook.com/MascomaValleySnowTravelers

Old #4 Rod, Gun and Snowmobile Club

35 miles of trails in Charlestown old4sportsmen.com

Shugah Valley Snow Riders

65 miles of trails between Mt. Ascutney and Green Mountain in Claremont facebook.com/ShugahValleySnowRiders

Tri-Town Trailblazers

Trails in Alstead, Acworth and Langdon tritowntrailblazers.com

Twin Ridge Mountaineers Trails in Goshen twinridgemountaineers.org

Washington Snow Riders Trails in Washington, plus warming hut at Camp Morgan washingtonsnowriders.org

Q&A with Daniel Whitmoyer of Sunapee

Glide along fresh-packed snow

How did you get into cross-country skiing?

I’ve been skiing since I was a little kid in Pennsylvania. I love running, but you can’t just run 12 months out of the year. So, in order to stay active and stay fit in winter, I picked up classic and skateskiing, both disciplines. Skate-skiing is a really good workout; it’s going to be a hard workout, but then, classic is pretty amazing, too. Skating is a very different way you can do a very hard workout. You can go very fast in a different way than running. You’re not using as much exertion to go fast, so that is an awesome way to stay active in the winter and really enjoy the season.

What do you enjoy about cross-country skiing?

It is very refreshing to go out in fresh snow. I ski a lot in the woods. It’s very therapeutic. You’re out there, and it’s very quiet; it’s just very nice.

Where do you like to go skiing locally?

One of the best places near Sunapee is Pine Hill Ski Club in New London. There’s private land there that is open to the public. They have skis and boots for people to be able to use. You don’t need to have an extensive background and gear to be able to go there and enjoy skiing. You can try it and see what it’s like, which I think is an awesome thing that they do.

I chaired the Sunapee Ragged Kearsarge Greenway board for a number of years. There’s plenty of really great publicly accessible trails there you can use. It is a 75-mile loop that connects Sunapee, Ragged and Kearsarge mountains and has spur trails.

I use Webb Forest quite a bit, which is on Harding Hill Road in Sunapee (and

managed by the Ausbon Sargent Land Trust).

I go to Wendell Marsh, which is behind the treatment plant. There are some snowmobile trails that go around there, but then there’s also some spur trails that are really fantastic. That’s another one of my favorites.

Ledge Pond is another really cool spot that’s on a snowmobile trail, which has public parking. What’s really cool about there is when the snow is so plentiful and it’s so cold — like it was this past winter — you can ski over the frozen pond.

Some of those are snowmobile trails in the winter, and some are not, but even the snowmobile trails usually encourage multi-use access for skiing or snowshoeing. As long as there’s natural snow — which this past year was amazing for that — those are great places to go.

I’ve not been to Eastman in Grantham, but I know it’s a very popular

spot and that people love to go over there.

What are some cool features you’ve seen while skiing?

One thing you get to see in the winter quite a bit are tons of Snowshoe Hare prints, which is pretty amazing. I had this amazing ski at the end of this year where, everywhere I went, was Snowshoe Hare prints and then spots where they’d actually burrowed in the snow. It was really cool.

I mentioned the frozen ponds, too. It’s pretty magical to be able to do a loop where you go over Ledges Pond. I did a big loop on the “big lake” this year — actually on Sunapee — because it was so cold and beautiful this year. It is pretty cool to be able to go out and ski past where the lighthouses are.

Sunrises and sunsets are awesome in the winter after fresh snow. It’s just amazing the amount of colors you can see.

Daniel Whitmoyer

PHOTO: Courtesy of Daniel Whitmoyer

Eastman Cross Country Center

Hit the Trails

Eastman Cross Country Center

6 Club House Lane, Grantham

Eastman maintains 24 miles of trails for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Public passes allow entry to trails, the sledding hill and skating rink. Skis package, snowshoes and skates are available to rent, and the ski shop also offers waxing. Lessons available by appointment only. eastmannh.org/ski

French’s Ledges

The French’s Ledges Trail Committee grooms trails in the winter for cross-country skiing. frenchsledges.org

Pine Hill Ski Club

220 Mountain Road, New London

Volunteers maintain 12 miles of trails and a weekend warming hut. pinehillskiclub.com

Nordic Skater

4 Route 103A, Newbury

Buy or rent gear for skiing, roller skiing and ice skating. nordicskater.com

Sunapee-Ragged-Kearsarge Greenway

There are multiple trailheads for access to the 75-mile loop. A trail guide with full color maps is available from area bookstores or online ordering. srkg.org

Sugar River Rail Trail

This 9-mile trail from Newport to Claremont is pleasant for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing. It’s managed by the NH Trails Bureau. nhstateparks.org

Hannux and Devon Johnson

Q&A with Jennifer Hannux and Devon Johnson

Mountain biking merits a move

This summer, you’re relocating to Claremont. What went into that decision?

Jennifer Hannux: We live in Hartland, Vermont, just across the river, but we’re not really close to any riding. It’s 20 minutes from like 11 different trail systems, but that adds up. We really love riding in Claremont, particularly at Arrowhead. We also ride a lot at Moody Park with our kids. We specifically were looking for something right near Arrowhead in Claremont, where we could ride from the house, because we don’t want that travel time interfering with our ability to get out on the trails.

Devon Johnson: We’re excited with where we’re going to be at in relation to Arrowhead. The kids will be able to go ride during the day over a summer break. When we’re in Claremont, they’ll be able to go right from the house and go do a little bit of riding.

Jennifer Hannux: Moody’s a bit farther, but it’s less than a mile. What we haven’t even gotten to do yet is a ride on the Sugar River Rail Trail, which is something we want to do. That is also pretty close to Arrowhead and the bike shop.

What is your background in mountain biking?

Devon Johnson: I went to college at Michigan Tech, and they own their own trails, and so that really is what launched me off. Near Michigan Tech, there’s a bunch of other trail centers as well, so I got into the gravity side of things, and really enjoying the wet, rocky, ruddy type of terrain, which is what Arrowhead offers as well.

Jennifer Hannux: I started biking after

I went through divorce. I had some friends that were into mountain biking, part of this group called Glorious Ladies on Wheels (GLOW). This Upper Valley riding group, they predominantly ride at Boston Lot in Lebanon, but they go around to a lot of different trail centers in the Upper Valley area. Every Thursday, they go to different places to ride, and occasionally, on the weekend, they’ll go away somewhere for a downhill day.

Once you start riding a little bit, you realize what type of riding you gravitate towards. I was always trying to be like: How far can I go? How good can I get? How far can I push myself?

This is my fourth season; I feel pretty awesome that, even just two years ago, I could ride confidently on only one trail at Arrowhead, because it’s really technical, and now I can run like eight of the 13 trails.

How did Arrowhead become your home mountain?

Devon Johnson: The Wheelhouse guys put on a ride every Thursday night. And Jennifer would ride with GLOW on Thursday. So, one of the Thursdays I had time, I ran over to Arrowhead. My first experience at Arrowhead was riding with the bike shop guys.

Jennifer Hannux: I had to have a season under my belt before I felt comfortable tackling Arrowhead. I had ridden Moody Park a couple of times, because that’s more green trails, some blue trails. With GLOW in 2023 was my first time, and there was a bunch of us that just rode up, and we did a couple of laps. I remember being really scared though, unnecessarily. Arrowhead has

Jennifer

a reputation of being really tough — there are parts that are challenging — but you can always walk, or you can always get off and scope something out.

How would you compare Arrowhead to some of the other places that you’ve done mountain biking?

Jennifer Hannux: We ride a lot, and we ride all over. We were in West Virginia in March riding. I would describe it as the Pacific Northwest of New England. It’s very loamy, it’s very steep, it’s very technical. It is a hidden gem that you have to earn your laps for. The main trails, the side hits, there’s so many different trail options and trail types. It’s very natural, and makes really good use of the features of the mountain. Rob (Walker) and his crew really know what they’re doing when they build trails; they make very good use of the existing topography.

Devon Johnson: The challenge is the pitch. Not just of the trail, but everywhere on the mountain is steep.

Jennifer Hannux: It’s so close to Mt. Ascutney, but it’s so different than Ascutney. The mud is different, the ground is different, how the water drains is different. Ascutney is very sprawling and a lot more pedal-ly, and Arrowhead is very consolidated.

What are some of your favorite routes?

Devon Johnson: It’s tough to pick a favorite, because one of the unique things is each trail offers something a little bit different. Even though it’s on the same mountain, each one is built a little bit different to showcase something a little different. Waka Waka has a very long technical rock garden. Fistful of Cake has a really fun slab, but mixes in high speed and some other technical features, but it’s a pretty high-speed trail. Fixer is like just raw descent, steep, loamy, oftentimes wet. G Spot is a massive rock slab that’s just super steep. Conway has the weird waterfall feature and a bunch of steep rollers. It’s like each trail is built to showcase something else on the mountain, which is really neat.

What recommendations do you have for Arrowhead first-timers?

Jennifer Hannux: I always say, go to the flagpole. There’s an amazing view. I always say it doesn’t count as an Arrowhead lap unless you go to the summit. Also, bring snacks and take breaks, because it’s a lot of work. It’s like 500 feet of elevation to go up for a lap.

Devon Johnson: Most importantly, stop in and say hi to the guys at the Wheelhouse. It’s one of the most unique places in the United States. There are not too many places where there’s a bike shop right at the trails, and all the trails are maintained by the bike shop. They’re the steward of the trails, and so they’re more than happy to give recommendations. They put in a lot of hard work — hard manual labor — into the trails, and would love to hear what people have to say as well. Go up, do a lap, tell the shop guys what you thought of the trails.

What is biking like at Moody Park?

Jennifer Hannux: Moody is a lot more chill. It’s much more entry level. When my daughter was five, she was riding on some of the trails there with her little 20-inch bike. Then there’s a bigger flow trail. There’s like a climbing trail there. There are other technical single-track trails to graduate onto. Once you feel good on this, then you could probably do some at Arrowhead. You don’t have to climb very much at all, depending on what trails you ride.

Devon Johnson: A lot of the folks that we know that like cross-country riding, really like riding Moody, because it’s very fun. You’re almost always pedaling, but you’ve got constant switchbacks through the trees.

Jennifer Hannux: We have brought our kids to Arrowhead as well, and particularly the bottom third of the mountain, there’s a couple of trails that cross near the bottom. My youngest was about seven when we started doing this. The lower sections of the trail built their confidence to see how they handle a little bit more steepness and how their stamina is with pushing the bike up.

Where to ride

The Wheelhouse

18 Robert Easter Way, Claremont (603) 542-2453

thewheelhousebikes.com

Arrowhead Recreation Area

Arrowhead hosts year-round activities, including tubing, skiing, snowboarding, hiking, biking and community events.

18 Robert Easter Way, Claremont (603) 542-7016

arrowheadnh.com

Moody Park

152 Maple Ave., Claremont (603) 542-7019

claremontparks.com

Sugar River Rail Trail

A 9-mile trail that runs from the Newport Recreation Department on Belknap Avenue in Newport and ends at Washington Street in Claremont along a state-owned former railbed. nhstateparks.org

Fresh from the farm

Sink your boots into the soil, pluck sun-ripened fruits and run your fingers over woolly sheep while you experience the living legacy of agriculture in the Sugar River Region. Farms are more than a place to pick up fresh, delicious products; they offer hands-on connection to the work of growing and animal care. With abundant pick-your-own opportunities and farmstands, no visit to the area is complete without the multisensory experience of a New England farm.

Farm-fresh Food

Bardo Farm

92 Forehand Road, Croydon (603) 276-9205

bardofarm.com

Beef and pork at farmers markets

Bartlett’s Blueberry Farm

648 Bradford Road, Newport

bartlettsblueberryfarm.com

Pick-your-own berries and farm stay

Bascom Road Blueberry Farm

371 Bascom Road, Newport (603) 359-7703

bascomroadblueberryfarm.com

Pick-your-own blueberries, apples and pumpkins, or shop the farm store for a variety of produce, farm-fresh eggs,

local honey, maple syrup and items from other nearby farms.

Beaver Pond Farm

1047 John Stark Highway, Newport (603) 543-1107

beaverpondfarm.com

Pick-your-own raspberries, blueberries and apples, plus a farm store with a variety of produce, grass-fed beef and baked goods.

Blueberry Acres

283 Derry Hill Road, Acworth (603) 762-9976 facebook.com/blueberrystand

Pick-your-own berries

Dancing Bear Farm

379 Jarvis Hill Road, Claremont dancingbearfarmnh.com

Farm store and workshops

Eccardt Farm

2766 E. Washington Road

Washington eccardtfarm.com

Farm store

Edgewater Farm

246 Route 12A, Plainfield edgewaterfarm.com

Pick-your-own berries and farm store

Five Sisters Farm

986 Route 12A, Plainfield nh5sistersfarm.com

This family farm has been raising Shetland sheep since 2007. Come visit the barn and get to know each animal’s personality. Shetland are known for their long, crimped wool. The Five Sister Farm shop sells roving and Shetland yarn at its summer shop and online year-round. Don’t miss your chance to meet the sheep on select event days.

Four Generations Farm Stand

172 Thrasher Road, Claremont facebook.com/mama.creates.4Gen Homestead bakery farmstand

Future Apple Farm and Orchard 489 Unity Road, Newport

Find on Facebook Farmstand

Grow a Pear Farm

279 Borough Road, Charlestown (603) 558-0069

growapearfarmnh.com Farm store, tour orchard

Harding Hill Farm

524 Stagecoach Road, Sunapee (603) 863-6493

hardinghillfarm.com

Find at farmers markets, tours by appointment

Hemingway Farms

1815 Claremont Road, Charlestown

hemingwayfarms.com

Hemingway Farms’ store showcases fresh vegetables, greens and berries grown on-site, along with products from talented local artisans, nearby farms and other businesses.

King Blossom Farm

834 Dunbar Hill Road, Grantham (603) 863-6125

kingblossomfarm.com

Farmstand

LaClair Acres

130 Piper Hill Road, Claremont (603) 542-6428

Find on Facebook Farmstand

Mac’s Maple/McNamara Dairy

259 River Road, Plainfield (603) 298-8008

macsmaple.com

Farm store, ice cream service

MacGlaflin Farm

Case Hill Road, Claremont macglaflinfarm.com

Farm tours by appointment

Peachblow Farm

29 Strawberry Row, Charlestown (603) 826-3980

peachblowfarm.com

Pick-your-own strawberries at this three-generation Frizzell family farm. The farm also sells asparagus, hay, straw and blueberries.

Riverview Farm

141 River Road, Plainfield (603) 298-8519

riverviewnh.com

Barn store, pick-your-own, corn maze and dinners in the orchard

Sanctuary Dairy Farm

209 Route 103, Sunapee (603) 863-8940

sanctuarydairyfarmicecream.com

Farm tours and ice cream service

Soggy Hill Farm

332 Ball Park Road, Goshen (603) 680-1390

Find on Facebook Homestead bakery

Sugar Creek Farm

744 Washington St., Claremont (978) 880-3332

sugarcreekfarmnh.com Farm stand and bakery

The Bakery on Bible Hill

Bible Hill Road, Claremont (802) 546-2746

thebakeryonbiblehill.com

Microbakery

Winter Street Farm

344 Winter St., Claremont (774) 454-7637

winterstreetfarm.com

Farmstand

Farmers Markets

Sunapee Farmers Market

Ben Mere Park, Sunapee sunapeefarmersmarket.com

Saturdays, 9 a.m. to noon, from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend. Vendors sell only items grown, raised, baked, created or prepared within 75 miles of Sunapee.

Newport Farmers Market

17 N. Main St., Newport newportfarmersmarketnh.com

Fridays, 3 to 6 p.m., from the end

of May to the end of September. All farm vendors are located within 50 miles of Newport.

Morningside Summer Market

3607 Claremont Road

Charlestown (603) 542-2218

morningsidemarketplace.com

Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., from May to October. Morningside Marketplace hosts outdoor market with fresh produce, handmade goods, local food and sometimes live music.

Meetinghouse Farmers Market

7 Halfmoon Pond Road

Washington (603) 495-2124

Find on Facebook

Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Memorial Day to Columbus Day. Don’t miss fresh produce, baked goods and a huge variety of handcrafted items.

Claremont Growers Collective claremontgrowers.org

While not a market itself, the Claremont Growers Collective is a group of farmers, gardeners and food advocates looking to connect shoppers with the local food-producing community. Visit claremontgrowers.org to see an interactive map detailing producers within a 15-mile radius of Claremont.

BY SARAH PEARSON

PHOTOS BY BETH REXFORD

Meet Chef Robert Steele

For nearly 20 years, his thoughtful balance of classic and creative flavors has defined the Old Courthouse Restaurant

In the heart of Newport’s downtown area, tucked behind the Newport Opera House and Historical Society, is

The Old Courthouse. No longer an institution of justice, for the past 22 years, it has been a home for fine dining.

The Old Courthouse restaurant is not just notable for its historic building with brick walls and tables covered in crisp white cloth, but also for its menu, which changes monthly, with high-quality dishes you won’t find anywhere else.

That’s a point of pride for Robert Steele, who has been the executive chef of the restaurant since October 2007.

“We have favorite dishes that come around once or twice a year,” Steele said. “Then, we try to put something new and original on every iteration of the menu as well.”

Each menu, typically released on the first Wednesday of the month, features a curated experience that highlights seasonal ingredients.

“I prefer to do a little bit less food better, as opposed to trying to please everybody,” he said. “We do everything from scratch as much as possible.”

Growing up in Lebanon, Steele said he got his start cooking by making

dinner for himself, his sister and his mom, before his mother got home from working late. His wife — his high school sweetheart — had less cooking experience. It wasn’t long into his marriage that he took over cooking and she did the bookkeeping.

Cooking was still a hobby for Steele into his 20s, but he was looking for something that would be a career. Someone suggested cooking.

Steele realized he couldn’t build his skills on the fly; he would have to go to school. His wife encouraged him.

Steele enrolled in the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, New York. After graduating, he worked at the Greenwich, Conn., country clubs.

As their widowed mothers aged, Steele and his wife decided to move back to New Hampshire. Steele spent the next several years working at the Millstone at 74 Main and then the Colonial Farm Inn, both in New London.

Steele said he was not interested in being a chef-owner, so as the Colonial Farm Inn was changing hands, he trained his replacement. Meanwhile, he happened upon an ad in the newspaper.

Mother and daughter Jane Rastallis and Karen Doucette were looking for a chef for The Old Courthouse.

“They said ‘creative American cuisine,’ which is sort of carte blanche to do whatever you want,” Steele said. “It’s a fine dining experience, but it’s supposed to be relaxed and comfortable.”

And what Steele wants is unique and exceptional quality food.

“We figured out things that people really enjoy … or the stuff they might not get at home,” he said. “Very few people cook rack of lamb at home, so we always have a version of lamb on the menu. We

“It’s a fine dining experience, but it’s supposed to be relaxed and comfortable.”

— Robert Steele

do pan-seared sea scallops. A lot of people will do bay scallops, but not a lot of people do sea scallops at home.”

While many people find comfort in familiar dishes, Steele wants to differentiate them, whether that’s doing a parmesan-crusted chicken rather than a run-of-the-mill chicken parmesan, or adding Spanish influences with Manchego cheese and oregano.

“I always try to put something more creative in there,” Steele said. It is fitting that a distinctive restaurant with a one-of-a-kind menu would be found in Newport, a town that Steele sees as equally unique.

“When I got the job at the Courthouse, it was two weeks before Halloween, and so my second weekend here, there was this humongous dance party at the Opera House, then came Winter Carnival,” Steele said. “The longer I lived here, (and) the more I saw the Winter Carnival and the block parties and the farmers market, and what a big deal it was, I realized that this is the coolest town. I’ve never experienced anything like it before, and I don’t know of any other communities in the area that have as strong a support as this.”

The Old Courthouse is open for lunch and dinner Wednesday through Saturday, with a brunch buffet on Sundays.

Reservations are appreciated.

GOURMET INGREDIENTS FOR A DIY MEAL

While Sugar River Region is home to a variety of restaurants with delicious dishes, sometimes what you’re looking for is just a quiet night in. You can bring locally sourced ingredients home from one of the many farm stores (see page 18) in the region, or stop by an artisan market specializing in high-end food products. When you’re looking for a gorgeously marbled steak to grill or some wine and charcuterie items for a romantic picnic, these shops deliver on the Sugar River Region’s foodie legacy.

Sunapee Cellar & Pantry

5 Garnet St., Sunapee (802) 236-3021

sunapeecellarandpantry.com

Sunapee Cellar & Pantry is an upscale market offering a curated selection of high-quality foods, specialty cheeses, fine wines, locally roasted coffee and artisanal goods. Serving locals, visitors and boaters, it provides a unique shopping experience that celebrates quality and convenience. Check its website for regular wine tasting events, too.

The Apiary

84 Pleasant St., Claremont (802) 478-4788

facebook.com/TheApiary603

30 Main St., Newport (603) 863-8360

eatatthecourthouse.com

For more than 50 years, Liberal Beef has been slicing up high-quality meat for the Claremont community. Pick up a single order for a delicious dinner or stock up for the week with one of their meat bundle options. You can also find an array of spice rubs and sauces to make dinner easily delicious. Old Courthouse

The Apiary is one of Claremont’s newest shops offering curated selection of local products. You can find baked goods from artisan bakeries including The Bakery on Bible Hill, Morrigan’s Walk Farm, Dipped by Hope and Baking Me Crazy. Try some loose-leaf tea and Busy Bee’s jams, pickles and other jarred products. It is 2026 New Hampshire Magazine Best of NH editor’s pick for best new artisan marketplace.

Liberal Beef

14 West Terrace St., Claremont (603) 543-9921

liberalbeef.com

Eat like a local

Dining here is rooted in variety, quality and a strong sense of place. From town to town, you’ll find everything from casual cafés, bakeries and country stores to white tablecloth restaurants and places serving globally inspired cuisine. Many menus highlight local ingredients and the creativity of cooks who shape the region’s food scene. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite, stocking up for a picnic or settling in for a memorable meal, these spots offer a flavorful introduction to the communities that define the Sugar River Region.

Acworth

The Village Store

1068 Route 123A, Acworth (603) 835-6547

acworthvillagestore.com

Charlestown

Charlestown House of Pizza

203 Main St., Charlestown (603) 826-3700 chopizza.com

For 30 years, this cherished, family-owned pizzeria has been crafting mouth-watering pizzas and a welcoming atmosphere. Each pizza is lovingly prepared with the finest ingredients and time-tested techniques. Don’t miss your favorite scoop in an ice cream cone when you’ve finished dinner.

Clubhouse Bar and Grill

32 Hastings Court Charlestown (603) 826-3381

Find on Facebook

Crux & Crumb featuring the Ice Cream Machine

213 Main St.

Charlestown (603) 826-5900

cruxandcrumb.shop

Indulge in baked goods, breakfast sandwiches, light lunches and handmade ice cream. You can also shop products sourced from local farms.

The Sumner House

122 Main St. Charlestown (603) 826-0003 thesumnerhouse.com

Claremont

Casa Jalisco Bar & Grill

163 Washington St. Claremont (603) 504-6862 casajalisconh.com

Common Man Restaurant

6 Mill Road, Claremont (603) 542-6171 thecmaninnclaremont.com

Kouzoku Japanese Steakhouse

236 Washington St. Claremont (603) 542-8866

Find on Facebook

For sushi, hibachi and more, Kouzoku Steakhouse has you covered.

Imperial Buffet

154 Washington St. Claremont (603) 542-8833

Find on Facebook

Sunshine Cookshop 37 Pleasant St. Claremont (603) 543-0003 sunshinecookshopjsr.com

Sweet Fire Barbecue 116 Mulberry St. Claremont (603) 542-9227 sweetfire-bbq.com

Taverne on the Square 2 Pleasant St., Claremont (603) 287-4416 taverneonthesquare.com

The Barn Café 39 Main St., Claremont (603) 287-8098 friendsofthebarn.com

Salt Hill Pub, Newport

Your taste buds will be watering when you spy the cinnamon rolls and pastries baked fresh daily at the Barn Café. Looking for something a bit heartier? There are soups, quiche, sandwiches and salads on the menu. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with plenty of tables to relax while you sip freshly brewed coffee and nibble on a muffin.

Time-Out American Grill

101 Mulberry St. Claremont (603) 504-6653 pirateminigolfnh.com

Tremont House of Pizza

134 Pleasant St. Claremont (603) 542-8017 tremonthouseofpizza.com

Goshen

Balthazar’s Ice Shack

367 Washington Road Goshen (603) 309-7795 balthazarsiceshack.com

Goshen Country Store

7 Brook Road, Goshen (603) 863-6331 facebook.com/goshencountrystore

Grantham

Helen’s Place

249 Route 10 N., Suite 4 Grantham (603) 865-5492

Find on Facebook

Forbes Tavern and Events

6 Club House Lane Grantham (603) 863-8000 forbestavernevents.com

Rum Brook Market

249 Route 10 N., Grantham (603) 863-5471

Find on Facebook

Find grab-and-go sandwiches for breakfast or lunch and a variety of grocery items.

Meriden

Meriden Deli Mart

809 Route 120, Meriden (603) 469-3222 facebook.com/MeridenDeliMart

Newport

Breaking Bread

63 Main St., Newport (603) 678-1212

portcitypop-ups.com

Jalisco Bar and Grill

339 Sunapee St. Newport (603) 865-5692 jaliscobarandgrillnh.com

Sakana Japanese Cuisine

239 Sunapee St. Newport (603) 865-5027 sakanasunapee.com

Salt Hill Pub

58 Main St., Newport (603) 863-7774 salthillpub.com

The Big Spoon Bakery and Cafe

29 Main St., Newport (603) 863-0043 thebigspoon-nh.com

The Old Courthouse

30 Main St., Newport (603) 863-8360 eatatthecourthouse.com (Story on page 22)

Plainfield

Plainfield Country Store 1190 National, NH-12A Plainfield (603) 709-7055

Find on Facebook

Poor Thom’s Tavern

19 Bean Road, Plainfield (603) 469-3400 poorthomstavern.com

Sunapee

Fenton’s Landing

72 Main St., Sunapee (603) 763-6032

fentonslanding.com

Grab grocery basics, coffee, local produce, baked goods, takeout and more at this lakeside deli. Over the past winter, Fenton’s has undergone renovations, so it will be bright and shiny by summer 2026.

The Quack Shack Ice Cream

74 Main St., Sunapee (603) 763-3084

Find on Facebook or Instagram

Cool off with cones of Gifford’s ice cream while enjoying a day on the shores of Lake Sunapee. Some nights, there will be live music on the deck.

Stacy’s Smoothies and Coffee Bar

36 River Road, Sunapee (603) 763-5900

stacyssmoothies.com

Smoothies, bowls, coffee, baked goods, soft-serve, wraps, mixed nuts and more are a pretty sweet (and healthy) way to start your day. Note that it is open seasonally, May to October.

Suna 6 Brook Road, Sunapee (603) 843-8998

sunarestaurantnh.com

The Bend at Sugar River

75 Lower Main St. Sunapee (603) 414-3016 thebenddeli.com

For high-end country store finds, look no farther than around the bend. The deli serves gourmet breakfast, lunch and dinner options with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. Breakfast and lunch menu includes sandwiches, salads, soups and snacks.

The Blue Canoe

71 Main St., Sunapee (603) 414-3050

thebluecanoenh.com

Lakeside dining at its best. The Blue Canoe offers a menu filled with fresh fish, local produce and seasonally crafted dishes that honor the flavors of New England.

Wildwood Smokehouse

45 Main St., Sunapee (603) 763-1178

wildwoodsmokehousesunapee.com

Ziggy’s Pizza 699 Route 103, Sunapee (603) 865-5154 ziggys.pizza

Washington

Washington General Store

29 N. Main St. Washington (603) 495-3131 thewashingtonstore.com

BREWERIES

Hoptimystic Brewing 31 River Road, Sunapee (603) 763-0341 hoptimysticbrewing.com

• Always Friendly Staff

• Sunrise Pavilion Function Facility

• Birdeez Restaurant

• Driving Range

• Indoor Simulator

• Instruction &

newportgolfclub.nh@gmail.com | 603.863.7787 www.NewportGolfClub-NH.com

Sit on the deck overlooking the Sugar River while you sample from a dozen on-tap brews. Last year, it was runner-up for best brewery in the state of New Hampshire by the viewers of WMUR.

Protectworth Brewing

633 John Stark Highway Newport (603) 678-2038

protectworthbrewing.com When it was time to grow, this homegrown brewery put down deeper roots in

PICK YOUR

Newport, opening a taproom with 17 draft lines and a laid-back beer garden. Pour a glass of their ales or lagers, or try one of their gluten-free hard seltzers.

Piggy Bank Taproom by Rockingham Brewing Co.

300 Sunapee St. Newport (603) 216-2324

rockinghambrewing.com

In a former 1977 bank building, Rockingham Brewery pairs eight rotating beers on tap with plenty of cans to go and authentic Mexican fare from neighboring Jalisco Bar & Grill.

AND

371 Bascom Rd., Newport, NH (603) 359-7703 bascomroadblueberryfarm.com

Photo by: Zach Wallace

CLAREMONT, NEW HAMPSHIRE

Where the Outdoors Flow Through the Heart of the City From forest trails to riverside walks, Claremont invites you to explore the outdoors in every season. Whether you’re tubing at Arrowhead, biking wooded hills, or relaxing by the Sugar River, there’s something here for every pace and season.

ARROWHEAD RECREATION AREA

A four-season favorite for tubing, hiking, and mountain biking.

• ATV access

• Tubing

• Mountain biking

• Snowshoeing

• Lodge & trailhead access

• location of The Wheel House Bike Shop

BOBBY WOODMAN RAIL TRAIL

Beginning near the southern end of town, this tree-lined trail winds past Monadnock Park, crosses the Sugar River on a historic trestle, and parallels Claremont’s commercial corridor before connecting to the Sugar River Trail — a 10-mile scenic route with covered bridges, wildlife, and river views.

• Hard-pack surface

• Trailhead near Pleasant St.

• Connects to 10-mile Sugar River Trail

MOODY PARK

255 acres of wooded trails, recreation, and family fun.

• Picnic areas

• Pavilion

• Playground

• Disc golf

• Dog park

• Mountain biking trails

• Snowshoeing & XC skiing

THE SUGAR RIVER

Flowing through downtown, the Sugar River connects Claremont’s past and present.

• Footbridge views

• Picnic spots

• Historic mills & bridges

• Riverside walking paths

HISTORIC DOWNTOWN

Explore downtown’s shops, restaurants, and take in a show at the beautifully restored Claremont Opera House — the cultural heart of the city.

Plan your next day trip or weekend in Claremont — there is more to discover!

Scan to explore more:

Discover Sunapee Harbor

Enjoy the charm of Sunapee Harbor’s waterfront village, which blends a historical legacy as a vacation destination, modern amenities and small-town hospitality. Cool off with an ice cream by the docks, browse locally owned shops or board a lake cruise. Whether you’re looking for a slow-paced summer by the water, or want to take advantage of every activity, Visit Sunapee Harbor can help you find everything from concerts and farmers markets to boat rentals, lodging and dining. There’s always something happening in Sunapee Harbor! Discover more at VisitSunapeeHarbor.com and plan your lakeside getaway.

Sunapee Cruises

Founded 1973

BY SARAH PEARSON

Form & function

The simple beauty of New Hampshire’s historic covered bridges

There is something captivating about covered bridges. Built with natural materials along country roads or spanning rail lines, they feel like an extension of the landscape. They are monuments to history you can touch and explore, a reminder of slower-paced travel. And despite the cost to build and maintain them, communities consider these bridges precious — scenic landmarks worthy of preservation.

“It brings people back to a simpler time, like historic barns and historic homes,” said Kim Varney Chandler, author of “Covered Bridges of New Hampshire” and a presenter on covered bridges for the nonprofit New Hampshire Humanities. “A covered bridge takes you back to a time when travel was different, people were different, the world was different.”

When Chandler and her husband moved back to New Hampshire, they landed in Hancock, which has a covered bridge.

“I decided I was going to set out and photograph all of New Hampshire’s covered bridges,” Chandler said.

She started in 2012, but life slowed the project. It wasn’t until 2020 that she rededicated herself, built a website of her findings and published a book featuring all the bridges in 2022.

“They’re all very different, but they’re all beautiful,” Chandler said. “They add to our landscape in a way that a lot of other things don’t.”

Of the state’s remaining 70 covered bridges, Sullivan County has 11. Chandler’s website offers itineraries for seeing them. The Connecticut River Valley day trip will take you to most of them.

The Corbin Covered Bridge in Newport is featured on her book cover.

“The original bridge was built in 1843, and it was destroyed by arson in 1993,” Chandler said. “It was the same year that two other bridges were destroyed by fire: the Slate Bridge in Swanzey and the Smith Bridge in Plymouth. It was just horrible.”

Cornish-Windsor Covered Bridge, Cornish

Corbin Covered Bridge, Croydon

In the aftermath, Newport had to decide what to do: Take on the expense of reconstructing the covered bridge, which insurance alone wouldn’t cover, or install a more modern steel bridge that would be less costly?

“A group of citizens that ended up becoming named ‘the bridge people’ — which I love — really wanted their covered bridge back,” she said. “They fought hard to convince the townspeople to build a covered bridge.”

The Newport community raised funds, and hired Master Bridgewright Arnold Graton of Ashland, who agreed to help rebuild the bridge for a reduced cost, Chandler explained.

“It’s a very impressive story, because what I’ve learned in this research is the community commitment to the covered bridges is huge,” she said. “These communities that have covered bridges, they do not want to lose them, and they will do whatever it takes to ensure that they’re kept.”

Preserving the bridges is not just about saving a scenic spot, but holding on to its history.

The craftsmanship of the structure and design choices is remarkable. How ever, in true Yankee fashion, adding roofs to bridges was not solely an aesthetic decision.

“If you think about New England thrift: If you’re going to build something, you want it to last,” Chandler said. “Not every wooden bridge ended up covered, but an uncovered bridge won’t last very long. A covered bridge can last up to 200 years or more if it’s taken care of properly.”

James Tasker of Cornish, born in 1826, constructed many durable covered bridges in the Sugar River Region. The Dingleton Hill, Blacksmith and BlowMe-Down bridges in Cornish and the Meriden Bridge in Plainfield are all multiple kingpost truss bridges cred ited to Tasker, and they’re the only four remaining in the state.

“One of the Sugar River bridges, the Pier Covered Bridge, when you stand in it, you realize how massive trains were, and the bridge itself is huge,” Chandler said. “It feels amazing to stand there and think about all of the train traffic that went through and how important the railroad was for such a short time in the state.”

It is one of three covered bridges along the Sugar River, and one of two truss bridges accessible from the Sugar River Recreational Rail Trail.

“There were hundreds of those truss railroad bridges all across the state,” Chandler said. “Now, there are only seven left in North America, and New Hampshire is home to five, and two of them are right there.”

“He was a very complicated man; he’s rumored to have not been able to read or write,” Chandler said. “He had quite a life. I like to think that these were his bridges, built in the late 1800s, and they’re still there today. And they look pretty much the same as they did when he built them. That’s a very unique testament.”

Tasker also was one of two builders of the Cornish-Windsor Bridge, the longest covered bridge in New Hampshire, which crosses the Connecticut River to Vermont.

“I want people to understand how important it is that we value the covered bridges as not just a small community, but as a larger community,” Chandler said.

“That’s the reason why they’re still here, because people understand their history and their value, and we advocate to save them.”

COVERED BRIDGES OF THE SUGAR RIVER REGION

Wright’s Covered Bridge (1906): Sugar River Trail, west of the intersection with Chandlers Mill Road, Newport (Requires a few minutes of walking.)

Pier Covered Bridge (1907): Sugar River Trail, north of Chandlers Mill Road, Newport

Corbin Covered Bridge (1843): Adjacent to Reid-Andrews Riverway Park and the airport, Corbin Road, Croydon

McDermott Covered Bridge (1869): Crane Brook Road, Langdon

Prentiss Covered Bridge (1874): Cheshire Turnpike over Great Brook, Langdon

Cornish-Windsor Covered Bridge (1866): Bridge Street over the Connecticut River, off Route 12A, in Cornish

Dingleton Hill Covered Bridge (1882): Root Hill Road, over Mill Brook, in Cornish

Blacksmith Covered Bridge (1881): Off of Town House Road, Cornish

Blow-Me-Down Covered Bridge (1877): Mill Road, over Blow-MeDown Brook, Plainfield

Meriden Covered Bridge (1880): Colby Hill Road, over Bloods Brook, Plainfield

Sugar River Covered Bridge (2012): Sunapee Harbor, Sunapee

Corbin Covered Bridge, Croydon

Blacksmith Covered Bridge, Cornish

NEW ENGLAND’S HIDDEN COLONIAL GEM: Step into history

The battles of the Revolutionary War affected all of colonial North America. At The Fort at No. 4 in Charlestown, once the northwestern edge of British colonial settlement, those battles were not of minutemen and redcoats – they were the quieter, persistent struggles of daily life on the frontier.

“We are not a Revolutionary War battle site,” said Alissa Bascom, director of The Fort at No. 4. “However, the people here were not isolated from those events. They had access to newspapers, and militias passed through the region. As the nation reflects on this pivotal moment in history, it is important to recognize that communities like this were living through that same period of uncertainty.”

As part of the 250th anniversary of the United States, The Fort at No. 4 is offering a closer look at how everyday people experienced the era of the American Revolution—not on the battlefield, but at home.

Residents of No. 4—merchants, farmers, and craftspeople—may not have lived on the frontlines, but their contributions were essential to the broader war effort.

“They had valuable, practical skills,” Bascom said. “They were growing food, producing materials, and creating the fabric that would ultimately be used to clothe and supply the military.”

While approximately 230,000 colonists served in the Continental Army during the war, the majority of individuals — like those at The Fort at No. 4 — experienced the Revolution from their homes and communities.

Founded along a bend in the Connecticut River in present-day Charlestown, New Hampshire, The Fort at No. 4 continues to serve as a bridge between past and present. Visitors walk the grounds, hear musket fire echo across the landscape, observe meals prepared over open hearths, and encounter history not as something distant, but as something lived.

In addition to the regular events and programming that visitors have come to expect, the 2026 program series, “Echoes of 1776,” builds on the Fort’s immersive programming with monthly Saturday events from May through October, concluding with additional programming in early November.

The series begins May 30 with “Family

Dynamics: Patriot vs. Loyalist,” examining how political allegiances divided households and communities. On June 27, “Hardships, Shortages, and Adaptations” explores how scarcity influenced daily decisions and survival strategies.

July 25th’s “A Call to Muster” focuses on the mobilization of ordinary men into militia service.

On August 29, “Sons and Daughters of Liberty” highlights youth involvement and the ways boycotts, protests, and acts of resistance transformed ordinary individuals into participants in the revolutionary movement. September 26th’s “Voices of Freedom” examines the experiences of free and enslaved Black Americans, offering insight into the complex realities they faced.

From October 30 through November 1, “Women of the Revolution” explores women’s roles both within the household and in supporting the war effort. The series concludes November 7 with “Allies and Frontiers,” which examines the difficult and nuanced decisions faced by Indigenous communities as they navigated alliances and sought to protect their homelands.

“The Saturday series focuses on what

Volunteer historical interpreters deliver an immersive experience at this living history museum

a celebration of the turning point in the Revolution.

Earlier conflicts that shaped the region will also be explored. On June 6–7, the Fort will host a French and Indian War reenactment, Allies & Adversaries. Historically, the site served as an important waypoint. The Fort at No. 4 is the start of the Crown Point Road, built to move artillery and men after British forces captured Fort Crown Point, positioning Charlestown as a key link between Boston and the northern frontier.

A full calendar of events is available at fortat4.org. The Fort is open Fridays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Admission sales end one half hour before closing. Please plan accordingly! Visitors are encouraged to allow 90 minutes to two hours for a general visit, with additional time for special events. Picnic areas are available on the grounds overlooking the Connecticut River.

was happening here in New Hampshire and across the frontier,” Bascom said, “not at major battle sites, but within communities.”

Additional Revolutionary-era programming includes a May 9–10 living history event featuring General Burgoyne’s 1777 campaign, with reenactors demonstrating drills of the British Army’s 7th Company, 3rd Regiment of Royal Artillery.

On September 12–13, “Return to No. 4: a Revolutionary War Reenactment” will bring colonial militia and the British regulars together in a clash on the Connecticut River. A full day of visiting the encampments, experiencing camp life, watching the military drills, and seeing the battle complete with cannon and rifle smoke, the sounds of fife and drum, forged alliances and more than a few surprises along the way. Who will raise their flag at the end of the weekend?

In July 2027, the Fort will once again serve as a historical muster point, commemorating General John Stark’s call to the militiamen from the early towns of NH, to gather and begin the march toward what would become the Battle of Bennington in 1777. This event marks a significant milestone for the Fort, as

Daily operations and programming are made possible by a dedicated team of volunteer historical interpreters. Dressed in period clothing, they portray the individuals who might have lived and worked at the Fort. Depending on the day, visitors may encounter a blacksmith, carpenter, merchant, or homemaker, each offering insight into the realities of 18th-century life.

Guests are invited to step inside reconstructed homes and workshops, creating a hands-on connection to the past.

“We encourage visitors to sit on the rope bed, pull up a chair to the table, and walk up to the hearth,” Bascom said. “It allows you to experience, in a very real way, what life might have felt like for a family living here.”

Recent updates to site signage have enhanced accessibility and interpretation, with expanded focus on daily life, material culture, and the diverse experiences of those who lived, worked, and traveled through the Fort.

“The attention surrounding the 250th anniversary has been an important catalyst,” Bascom said. “It’s encouraging people to engage more deeply with our history. We’re committed to continuing to improve how we present not just what happened, but why it matters.”

For more information on the Fort at No. 4, visit fortat4.org.

TRAVEL BACK IN TIME

Step into the imposing palisade, and you’ll be welcomed into the lives of intrepid colonial families. In 1743, the Fort at No. 4 in Charlestown was established as the northwesternmost frontier settlement in the British colonies of America. This fortified village was not a military outpost, but instead a place where English settlers sought out land and forged a new life.

Today, as an open-air museum, the Fort at No. 4 is a reproduction of that walled village, where volunteer historical interpreters bring to life its residents from more than 250 years ago.

Visitors can hear musket fire echo against the hills, watch meals prepared over open hearths and encounter history, not as something distant, but as something tangible.

“We are bringing back that real focus on the colonial family and their drive to survive,” said Alissa Bascom, executive director of the Fort at No. 4. “These people came and they made a place for themselves and their family with nothing but hard work. While we may look at it with a different lens now, we try to bridge who those people were, with what we know now.”

Portrayals by historical interpreters vary based on volunteer availability, but may include a member of a merchant family, a blacksmith, an Indigenous trader, a carpenter, a baker, homemakers and other members of the community.

“You can walk up to the hearth. You can smell the smoke. You can actually feel kind of like what it would be to be in that family, living in that

house, doing the chores,” Bascom said. “You can walk in the gardens, you can touch the herbs, you can look at the dye plants.”

Plan to spend about two hours chatting with historical interpreters, reading recently expanded interpretive signage and exploring interactive exhibits as you work your way around the attached buildings. On the many weekends when the Fort hosts reenactments, you may want to extend your day. Visitors are welcome to pack a picnic lunch to eat on the expansive lawn or sit along the picturesque riverbank.

The Fort at No. 4 is open Fridays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Its main season runs from May through early November, though hours may vary for special events.

FORT AT NO.4 Quick Tips

Don’t miss: On the last Saturday of each month, the Fort at No. 4 will be hosting a special series dedicated to different Revolutionary War topics for the 250th anniversary of the country.

Ideal for: Family-friendly with interactive exhibits. Strollers are allowed. The museum is mostly accessible, but outdoor areas may have uneven terrain. Wear sturdy walking shoes and be prepared for New England weather.

Duration: 90 minutes to 2 hours, or more for special events

Address: 267 Springfield Road, Charlestown

Nearby dining: The Charlestown village center is less than 2 miles away with lunch or dinner available at the Charlestown House of Pizza, and fresh coffee, light lunch, ice cream and pastries available at Crux & Crumb.

More information: fortat4.org (603) 826-5700

You May Also Enjoy

Going for a drive: The Connecticut River Byway is a 140-mile journey stretching from West Chesterfield to Littleton. From the Fort at No. 4, head north on Routes 12A and 12 toward Claremont. You’ll travel under a railroad trestle, see the Cornish-Windsor Bridge and pass by Saint-Gaudens National Historic Park. More details at visitnh.gov/things-to-do/scenic-drives/connecticut-river-byway. Also nearby, the Lake Sunapee Scenic byway is a 39-mile loop around Lake Sunapee. Along the way, it passes through several village centers and sites of historical significance. More details at sites.google. com/view/lakesunapeescenicbyway.

Visiting a craftsman: Watch how Jonathan Gibson carries on the trade of pewter work at his Gibson Pewter studio in Washington. Gibson is a juried member of the League of New Hampshire Craftsmen and recognized as a top maker by Early American Life Magazine. He and his family invite visitors to see how pewter is handshaped using traditional techniques. The shop is open Monday to Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. More details at gibsonpewter.com

Exploring historical markers: New Hampshire has nearly 300 spots identified by the NH Historical Highway Markers program — 16 are in the Sugar River Region. The Fort at No. 4 and Gen. John Stark’s Bennington expedition are marked along Route 12 in Charlestown. New Hampshire’s first Roman Catholic church building and the oldest standing Episcopal church are in Claremont, while the birthplace of the Seventh Day Adventist Church is noted in Washington. The NH Division of Historical Resources has an interactive map for markers and a Marker Quest at nhdhr.dncr.nh.gov. Claremont, Cornish and Newport are home to markers for Lafayette’s Tour, following the route General Lafayette followed in 1825 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the United States. Learn more at thelafayettetrail.org.

ART, MUSIC AND CULTURE AWAIT

Saint-Gaudens National Historical Park and its companion nonprofit, the Saint-Gaudens Memorial, in Cornish, are unique as one of just two national parks dedicated to a visual artist and the only national park focused on a sculptor.

The work of sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens (1848-1907) expressed American Renaissance ideals and represented the Beaux-Arts — an architectural style incorporating French neoclassicism, Renaissance and Baroque characteristics.

Saint-Gaudens’ most famous works include outdoor sculpted bronze monuments depicting Civil War heroes including Abraham Lincoln, Union Gen. John Logan and Union Gen. William Tecumseh Sherman. “The Puritan” has been reproduced several times over, while the “Robert Gould Shaw and the 54th Regiment” memorial appears on Boston Common.

You can get up close and personal with Saint-Gaudens’ work at the park,

said Saint-Gaudens Memorial Executive Director Jackie Rocha.

“The park is also remarkably human in scale — you’re not behind velvet ropes looking at things from a distance. You can stand inches from monumental bronzes in the open air,” Rocha said.

In partnership with the National Park Service, traveling exhibitions are included, with two new exhibitions held each season.

“The outdoor collection is largely permanent, and the galleries display a sampling from the largest collection of Saint-Gaudens’ artwork in the world,” says Rocha.

Rocha suggests a balance of both indoor and outdoor spaces, with the option to raise the heart rate.

“We encourage visitors to pack a picnic lunch and allow time to explore one of the hiking trails,” she said.

Start at the Visitor’s Center for a brief film, then grab a schedule of ranger tours and the day’s activities. Your itinerary can include a visit to the gardens;

Aspet, the family home; the studios and galleries to view Saint-Gaudens’ sculptures; and his students’ works.

On Sunday afternoons in July and August, take in a free summer concert during the Sunday Concert Series.

SAINT-GAUDENS Quick Tips

Don’t miss: The free Art in the Park festival will be Sept. 12 with opportunities to view artists at work and participate in family art activities. Stay late for the Star Party on Sept. 19 for a night sky viewing with the Springfield Telescope Makers.

Ideal for: Families, artists, students and nature enthusiasts. Dogs are allowed in the park but must be leashed; camping not allowed.

Duration: Two to three hours, minimum

Address: 139 Saint Gaudens Road, Cornish

Nearby dining: For sandwiches or to-go bites, try Plainfield Country Store. For a sit-down meal, head to Poor Thom’s Tavern in Plainfield. Downtown

Claremont is your best bet for a wide variety of food options.

More information: nps.gov/ saga, (603) 675-2175

HEART-PUMPING ACTION AROUND EACH BEND

Hear the roar of engines, smell the gasoline and feel the whoosh of air as cars race around the oval of Claremont Motorsports Park.

“The speedway opened in 1947, and we’re entering our 79th season as a racing staple of Claremont,” said general manager Mike Parks. “We’re a NASCAR local racing series track. We race a

variety of different divisions, from one NASCAR Wheel and Modified event to the Granite State Pro Stock Series. Our weekly divisions include late models, outlaw late models and street stocks, throughout the year, from entry-level, four-cylinder and V6 divisions.”

The big night of the week throughout the season is Friday. Gates open for spectators around 5:30 p.m. Grab

the season, including its Spring Fling opening celebration in April, a wrestling show, the Claremont Senior Center Car Show and the Jeffrey Earnhardt Racing Experience.

The environment is family-friendly. “Looking out in the grandstands,” Parks said, “I see people who are 85 years old, and I see people who are 3.”

Since the stands are outdoors, spectators should be prepared for the elements. Bring a blanket for cooler spring and fall evenings. You may want sunscreen and sunglasses with those later sunsets mid-summer. Earplugs offer protection against the volume of a fleet of racecar engines revving at once.

It can be an affordable outing for families. Prices vary for different events, but for the Friday Night Racing Series, kids are $5, seniors or military are $10, adults are $15, and a family pack for two kids and two adults is available for $35.

“There’s always something exciting on the racetrack to keep you on the edge of your seat,” Parks said.

CLAREMONT MOTORSPORTS PARK

Quick Tips

Don’t miss: Go-kart races on Sundays with free grandstand admission, with racing divisions for children as young as 5 up to adults.

Ideal for: Families

Duration: Friday night races take about three hours, but come early to watch the practice runs.

Address: 282 Thrasher Road, Claremont

Nearby dining: Concessions are available on-site — within 3 miles you can find nearly a dozen restaurants in the downtown Claremont area.

More information: claremontmotorsportspark.com (603) 678-2147

You May Also Enjoy

Spreading your wings: Get a bird’seye view of the Connecticut River Valley with a tandem hang-gliding lesson or parasailing lesson at Morningside Flight Park in Charlestown. You’ll feel the rush of the wind as you zip through the skies. “It’s very rare to have people who went up, come back and say, ‘That wasn’t my thing,’” said assistant manager Gisele Diereks. You can get the aerial experience a bit closer to the ground with a zip-line tour or play a match of outdoor laser tag. Camping is available on-site.

flymorningside.kittyhawk.com.

Kicking up the dust: New Hampshire Motocross Park in Lempster hosts a variety of motocross racing events for dirt bikes, ATVs and more. It will also welcome Woodbooger Demolition Derby for a weekend show. nhmotocross.com

Beating the clock: Get your brain churning and your heart pumping as you and your group try one of several escape room options at the Escape Factory Break out of a research facility overrun with zombies, or escape a museum for one last art heist. You have one hour to solve the puzzles to complete the challenge. After that, play 18 holes at Blackbeard’s Cove, a blacklight mini golf experience. Refuel with pub fare favorites at Time-Out Americana Grill All of these are housed in a repurposed mill building in downtown Claremont. escapefactorynh.com.

EXPERIENCE THE REGION IN EVERY SEASON

Lake Sunapee may be New Hampshire’s fifth largest lake, but its narrowness compared with its length gives it a more intimate feeling. The lake is pristine, with clear water visibility some 30 feet down, so it’s no wonder the likes of Aerosmith’s Steven Tyler and history documentarian Ken Burns have vacation homes here. Lake Sunapee is the smallest lake in the country with multiple lighthouses. It has three, two of which saw foundational repairs in 2025.

For a tour of the lake — including the Loon Island Lighthouse, Burkehaven Lighthouse and Lakeside Lighthouse — Sunapee Cruises offers a 1.5-hourlong trip around the lake on the MV MT. Sunapee II, which has an open upper deck and enclosed lower deck. While nearby Mount Kearsarge and Mount Sunapee are in view most of the time, on a clear day you can even see all the way to Mount Ascutney. For a unique experience out, the two-hour dinner cruise offers a similar guided tour with a

buffet dinner on the MV Sunapee Lake Queen, which has two enclosed decks for comfortable climate-controlled dining, plus an open-air walkway along the perimeter. Privately chartered trips are also available. Tours run from late May through foliage season, so you can experience great photo opportunities and fresh lake air for half the year. Cruise schedules and bookings can be found at sunapeecruises.com

If you have your own boat, there are five public boat launches: Blodgett Landing, Burkehaven, Sunapee State Park, Sunapee Harbor and George’s Mills. They are owned by different state and local entities, and as such vary with dock access, regulations and parking space.

For canoeing or kayaking, Burkehaven is a popular cove, as some rocky areas keep out larger motorized watercraft.

Mount Sunapee State Park in Newbury has a beach with bathhouses,

picnic tables and a playground open to all for a daily admission fee, and camping for those looking for an overnight stay.

LAKE

Sunapee Cruises information: sunapeecruises.com

Mount Sunapee State Park information: nhstateparks.org/ find-parks-trails/mt-sunapee-state-park

EXPLORE THE SUGAR RIVER REGION’S GREEN SCENE

An elevated golf experience at Eastman Golf Links

The championship golf course at Eastman Golf Links, designed by Geoffrey Cornish, takes full advantage of its location.

“It provides some beautiful vistas of the surrounding mountain ranges,” said Eastman’s Head Golf Pro Sean Edmonds. “It’s a very playable golf course with elevation changes.”

As for the best spot?

“The 12th hole here is a great hole; it has a very elevated tee, so the vista from up there is amazing, and it’s beautiful,” Edmonds said. “The hole is challenging, but there’s seven different tee sets.”

With Eastman Golf Links’ seven tee positions, it is easier for players of different abilities to play as a group. For someone who’s highly skilled, they may choose to play the tee that is farthest from the hole, while children or lower-skilled players

might choose the shortest. Edmonds said that courses often have two or three, typically split by gender, but today it’s more about ability.

“Choose the one that you feel might challenge you, but you can still have some fun from that tee,” Edmonds said. “That’s been a trend in golf over the last 15 years, to provide more tee options and just let players choose a tee that makes sense for their game.”

As a semi-private course, Eastman opens tee times to members before the general public. However, even during the busier weekend and summer days, there are usually public tee times open unless the course is closed for an event.

Fall can be a great time to visit to take the colorful foliage and take advantage of lighter bookings.

Eastman has a golf shop where you can rent clubs or purchase gear. Forbes Tavern offers a place to relax after your game with a drink and a meal.

EASTMAN GOLF LINKS

At a Glance

Type of course: 18 holes, semi-public

Booking window: Members can reserve tee times 14 days in advance, Eastman residents seven days in advance, and the public has five days

Course time: 4 hours, 10 minutes

Address: 6 Club House Lane, Grantham

Closest dining: On-site at Forbes Tavern

More information: eastmannh.org, (603) 863-4500

Technical diversity at Newport Golf Club

You should not come to Newport Golf Club expecting to approach each hole with the same technique, advises golf pro Keith Marks.

“It’s not super long, but every hole is different,” said Marks. “There are trees or there’s water; there are a lot of hazards, so you really have to pay attention to position play and not try to overpower the course.”

The 151-acre course, designed by Phil Wogan, complements the surrounding mountains, streams and ponds. You can appreciate its natural beauty while playing just minutes from Lake Sunapee.

“Course conditions are important to me,” Marks said. “Our conditions are pristine. The drought we had last summer was tough, but we didn’t lose a green, a tee or a fairway.”

“Our greens are second to none,” he added. “It’s hard to find anywhere in the state with greens as good as ours. They roll true and moderately fast, but not unfair, but they’re in such good shape, and that’s hard to find.”

Marks said that holes 8 and 13 really put your skills to the test.

“I like No. 8, because it’s a drivable par four,” he said. “It should be a birdie hole, but you can easily get a bogey, because there’s enough bunkering, tall grass and fescue protecting it.”

Hole No. 13 requires significant ball control around a water hazard.

“No. 13 is just a fantastic design,” Marks said. “If you put a little too much spin on it, though, you lose the ball in the water. It demands a very good tee shot.”

At the start of the season, Newport offered three tee positions, but plans to add a fourth over the summer.

The course has adopted technology to enhance play with online booking available on its app and website, GPS-enabled golf carts and golfing simulators. They also have a driving range for practicing and club rentals. If looking for an event space to rent, Newport Golf Club has two options: the Sunrise Pavilion for up to 175 guests, and the Divot Room for up to 75 people.

Type of course: 18 holes, public

Booking window: 14 days for members, seven days for public

Course time: 4 hours, 15 minutes

Address: 112 Unity Road, Newport

Closest dining: On-site at Birdeez Restaurant

Surrounded by rolling hills, including a view of Mt. Ascutney from the 5th hole, Claremont Country Club offers a shorter-course golf option with the same fantastic views you’ll find across the Sugar River Region.

“The most notable hole is No. 6, par three over the pond,” said Joe Trabka, board member of the Claremont Country Club. “From the blue tees, it plays about 175 yards from an elevated height. It’s a pretty hole, and the water adds an extra challenge.”

There are gold, white and blue tee positions on every hole. In the summer, the course usually adds red tees for youth players.

Claremont Country Club hosts events, too, including weddings. The

view from the first hole near the clubhouse is a sought-after spot for the exchange of vows, said Trabka.

“Perched at the highest point of the property, No. 1 overlooks the city of Claremont with spectacular views of the surrounding mountains,” he said. However, it is hard to arrange for weddings on the green itself during the golf course’s busy season. The air-conditioned function hall has a screened porch and bar available for guests to use.

Those ready to golf can book their tee time online now. Club rentals are available from a wellstocked pro shop on-site.

At a Glance

Type of course: Nine holes, public

Booking window: Up to two weeks in advance

Course time: 2 hours

Address: 53 Country Club Road, Claremont

Closest dining: Head up Pleasant Street for Tremont House of Pizza, Rancho Viejo or the Taverne on the Square, among other dining options

CLAREMONT COUNTRY CLUB

Where to stay

Choosing a place to stay during your travels is not just about finding a bed for the night. Where you choose to stay becomes a hub of vacation exploration and can inform the whole tone of your trip. For newcomers to the area looking for guidance, perhaps you’ll want to stay at a cozy inn or bed-andbreakfast where on-site hosts can provide expert advice curated to your interests. Coming to the Sugar River Region to explore the area’s history? Don’t miss out on staying at a place with its own storied past. Or make your stay part of the agenda at a lakeside campground or boutique resorts with pools, game rooms and other fun on-site amenities.

Stays with Style

Sunapee Stays Lodge

179 Burkehaven Hill Road

Sunapee sunapeestays.com

Studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom suites are an oasis from which you can

launch your adventure. Rooms have a semi-private patio, a large kitchenette and king beds. There’s a shared game room, movie room and pool area, all with mountain views. Some units are pet-friendly. Sunapee Stays has several separate vacation homes, including its Tiffany Hill Treehouse.

The Common Man Inn 21 Water St., Claremont thecmaninnclaremont.com

Mountain Edge Suites 1380 NH Route 103, Newbury mountainedgesuites.com

Dexter’s Inn 258 Stagecoach Road, Sunapee dextersnh.com

Sunapee Stays Lodge

The Common Man Inn

Hideaway Inn

1403 Route 103, Newbury hideawayinns.com

Just a 5-minute drive to Mt. Sunapee and a 5-minute walk to the lake, Hideaway Inn is your starting point for all-season adventures. Each room is distinctive with smart, streamlined amenities, making it the perfect launchpad for nature lovers and weekend wanderers alike.

Sunapee Harbor Cottages

4 Lake Ave., Sunapee sunapeeharborcottages.com

If you’re looking to step across the street to board a boat on Lake Sunapee, this is the stay for you. Private cottages offer a perfect home base for couples and groups of up to five guests. Rent multiple cottages for your extended family.

Chase House Inn 1001 Route 12A, Cornish thechasehouseinn.com

The Chase House Inn was the birthplace and childhood home of Salmon P. Chase, who was Abraham Lincoln’s Secretary of the Treasury, and later, Chief Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court. It is a boutique country inn where guests come to stay and get away from the busyness of life with warm charm and country rooms.

The Chase House

Sunapee Harbor Cottages

Hideaway Inn

Follansbee Inn

2 Keyser St., N. Sutton follansbeeinn.com

Here you will find 181 years of history, the wonder of nature, original art, gorgeous antiques, generous breakfasts made from scratch and genuine hospitality. Frontage on Kezar Lake offers a pier with kayaks, canoes and stand-up paddleboards. Tall pine trees shade the shoreline, and there are open spaces for sunbathing and lounging. The threemile path around Kezar Lake is the perfect distance for easy exercise.

His & Hers Farm

561 Route 123A, Alstead hisandhersfarm.com

Brook Road Inn 1171 Brook Road, Goshen brookroadinn.com

Bartlett’s Blueberry Farm 648 Bradford Road, Newport airbnb.com

At the base of Mt. Sunapee, we’re where four-season adventurers find their basecamp. Ski days, lake afternoons, fall hikes, and trail rides all start here. Our rooms blend Lake Sunapee character with original, one-of-a-kind details, no two alike. Skip the front desk and head straight to whatever’s calling you outside.

Inn

Campsites

Northstar Campground 43 Coon Brook Road, Newport northstarcampground.com

Running Bear Campground 113 Running Bear Trail, Ascutney Vermont runningbearvt.com

Crow’s Nest Campground 529 S. Main St., Newport crowsnestcampground.com

Sweet Song Acres Private, Charlestown hipcamp.com

Follansbee Inn, on beautiful Kezar Lake, has 17 unique guestrooms, each with a private en-suite bathroom and AC. A delicious, full breakfast is served daily. Experience our award-winning hospitality!

Follansbee

Sugar River Region Annual Events

FEBRUARY

Newport Winter Carnival: The oldest winter carnival in the country is held mid-February in locations around town. Enjoy a parade, pancake breakfast, community lunches, horse-drawn carriage rides, sledding and snow golf. Don’t miss forestry, K-9 and axe-throwing demonstrations, games and a dance to close out the night. newportrec.com, or find Newport Winter Carnival on Facebook

MARCH

Maple Weekend: There are more than a dozen sugarhouses in the Sugar River Region that open their doors to visitors each spring in mid-March while the sap is boiling. nhmapleproducers.com

Dancing with the Newport Stars: This annual event organized by the Newport Area Chamber of Commerce and the Newport Opera House Association pairs locally famous personalities with ballroom dancers for a show at the Newport Opera House. newportnhchamber.org

MAY

Cannondale Enduro Series:

On May 31, the Eastern States mountain biking series will come to Arrowhead Recreation Area to compete. easternstatescup.com

JUNE

Newport Nano Brewfest: Saturday before Father’s Day at the Town Common, Newport. The only New Hampshire festival dedicated solely to nanobreweries lets you sample hard-to-find beers, talk with brewers and enjoy the best of small breweries. newportnhchamber.org

Wings and Wheels Car Show: Come to Parlin Field Airport in Newport on June 27 and vote for the best in show of cars, trucks, motorcycles and more. Enjoy food, DJ music, a kids bounce house and more. newportnhchamber.org

PRIDE: Celebrate LGBTQ+ Pride in Claremont from June 15 to 20. The 2026 schedule of events is still being determined but past years have featured trivia, workshops, socials, a picnic, dancing and a block party. greaterclaremontnh.org/pride

JULY

Unity Old Home Day: The festivities will be held July 25, 2026, on the town common adjacent to the Unity Town Hall. Events will be held in conjunction with the opening of the Unity Historical Society Museum at the town hall. unitynhhistoricalsociety.org

AUGUST

League of NH Craftsmen Fair:

The Annual Craftsmen’s Fair began in 1933 and runs for nine days each year, featuring the juried work of hundreds of members with booths, interactive demos and curated exhibits attracting 20,000 visitors annually to Mount Sunapee. nhcrafts.org/annual-craftsmens-fair

Cornish Fair: This traditional country fair returns Aug. 21-23, 2026. With agricultural exhibits, horse and oxen pulling, vendors and midway rides, the Cornish Fair is also the largest dairy show in New Hampshire. cornishfair.org

SEPTEMBER

Claremont Brewfest: Late September at Visitor Center Common, North Street, Claremont. Sample top beers from more than 30 breweries and choose your favorites. Food trucks, music and a 5K round out this 21+ experience. claremontbrewfest.com

Goshen Old Home Day: Shop from vendors, watch the parade, snack on locally made treats and gather by the bonfire at the end of September. goshennh.org

Sullivan County Farm Day: Experience the bounty of the Sugar River Region with guidance from the

UNH Cooperative Extension of Sullivan County. Visit participating farms for tours, hayrides, games, crafts and samples. By filling a “passport” at each stop, you could win a prize. extension.unh.edu

Washington Area Artists Tour: For the last two weekends in September a popup shop and exhibit will offer handmade works by local artist ranging from folk to fine art, photography, jewelry, pottery, woodworking and more. Find Washington Area Artists on Facebook.

OCTOBER

Claremont Fall Festival: The annual Fall Festival runs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on the first Saturday in October on the Visitor Center Green and includes vendors, food trucks, yard games and chili cook-off. This signature event is a partnership between the Greater Claremont Chamber of Commerce and Claremont Parks & Recreation Department. greaterclaremontnh.org/fall-festival

Rail Trail Rendezvous: Bike the Sugar River Rail Trail with Discover Sugar River Region and its partners. There’s live music, food and community activities. sugarriverregion.org

Cannondale E-Bike Enduro Series

Finals: Arrowhead will host the Eastern States Finals for e-bike enduro racing on Oct. 31.

easternstatescup.com

DECEMBER

Twas Just Before Christmas: Children visit downtown Newport businesses to collect stamps for their passport. Once complete, they can visit with Santa. There’s also a chili walk, bonfire, horse and wagon rides, cocoa and baked goods, and more. newportnhchamber.org

Sunapee Village Christmas: Get in the holiday spirit with a firetruck parade, carriage rides and a visit with Santa. projectsunapee.org

Family-owned, communityloved for over 30 years.

Pizzas and much more — from fresh salads to lasagna and local favorites. Dine in, take out, or enjoy our lovely outdoor seating. Great food, ice cream, beer & wine — served 7 days a week. 203 Main St, Charlestown, NH 603-826-3700

www.chopizza.com

Charlestown House of Pizza

Greetings from our staff at CENTURY 21 Highview Realty. With over four decades of presence in Claremont assisting sellers and buyers throughout Sullivan County as well as the whole state of New Hampshire, our local agents are proud of and knowledgeable about our changing community. We are immersed in learning, giving, and building relationships with customers, clients and area businesses alike!

We invite you to peruse our website at www.century21highview.com, find us on Facebook, and introduce yourself. Don’t let this stunning season pass you by without enjoying the Sugar River Region!

SISTERS FARM - PLAINFIELD NH

- Roving - Knit Kits - Felting Supplies - Gifts - More Meet the sheep who grow the wool!

Charlestown’s go-to for building supplies — and more

Housed in the town’s historic train depot, The Depot Home Center has been a mainstay in Charlestown for many decades. For the last 39 years, it’s been owned and operated by Jan and Reg Bailey, who take pride in offering not just great materials — but great advice and neighborly service.

Whether you’re building a home, fixing a deck, replacing a door, or getting the garden in shape, Depot Home Center has you covered. From lumber, siding, roofing, and insulation to hardware, paint, windows, plumbing, and lawn care, the shelves (and warehouses) are full and ready for your next project. They even stock wood pellets, sleds, grills, air conditioners, and — yes — a little of Jan’s famous contraband to keep things interesting. Fair prices. Helpful people. And a whole lot of know-how you won’t find in a big box.

Join a team that cares. Whether you’re supporting residents at our nursing home or promoting safety and rehabilitation in the Department of Corrections, your work makes a difference. Live and work in New Hampshire’s Sugar River Region — where scenic beauty, strong communities, and quality of life come together. Enjoy flexible schedules, competitive pay, great benefits, and NH Pension. Learn more: www.sullivancountynh.gov

Visit www.barharbor.bank or your nearest branch to learn more. Award-winning banking, rooted in Northern New England.

www.barharbor.bank • 888-853-7100 Named one of America’s Best Banks by Forbes and Newsweek, we put people first, building real relationships and delivering banking that helps you achieve your goals.

Sullivan County is committed to caring for the homes that shape our communities—preserving their character while ensuring they are safe and healthy for the people who live in them today and in the future.

Through the Lead Paint Abatement & Healthy Homes Program, we work with property owners to address health and safety risks, improve housing conditions, and create safer living environments for families across our region.

https://www.sullivancountynh.gov/ kate@kkirkwood.com

Finishing touches

Bust of Sarah Josepha Hale near the library in Newport: A writer, activist and editor of the Godey’s Lady’s Book magazine, Hale famously campaigned for the creation of the Thanksgiving holiday and for the completion of the Bunker Hill Monument.

Like sprinkles on top of your ice cream sundae, add an extra layer of discovery with landmarks and exhibits as you travel across the Sugar River Region. Each is easy to visit with a quick stop along the way and offers a deeper appreciation for the history, culture and community that shaped life here. 1 2 3 4 5 7 6 1 2 3 4 5 6 7

Lafayette marker at Opera House Square in Claremont: From 1824-1825, Revolutionary War hero the Marquis de Lafayette toured the United States for the country’s 50th anniversary. His stops — including a stay at the Stevens Hotel — are recorded on historic markers.

Korn Alley murals in Newport: In 2025, a collection of murals depicting the town was installed along Korn Alley, which connects Newport’s Main Street to the riverfront. Millstones on the Sugar River Heritage Trail: What was once called the Sunapee Harbor Walk is a scenic half-mile path that runs from the Lake Sunapee dam to the town’s information booth. You’ll see remnants of Sunapee’s past including millstones, the old town hall and foundations of former factories. “Our Hands Then and Now” sculpture in Claremont: This 53-foot public sculpture by

artist Ernest Montenegro links Claremont’s millworkers with the community’s future. It is located along the Sugar River facing the brick, former mill buildings that are being put to new uses. Antique shoes: At the Sunapee Historical Society, you can see items made during the town’s industrial era including the nails used in shoemaking. Glass bottle in Newport: Dr. Hervey Thatcher is credited as “the father of the milk bottle.” He was in Potsdam, New York, at the time, but he was born here. You can view a sample of his invention at the Newport Historical Society.

Photos courtesy of: Kara McGrath for NH Magazine

1, 3 and 7; Sarah Pearson 4 and 6; Zach Wallace 5; courtesy 2