Dartmouth Lake Sunapee Travel Guide
Plan your trip to Dartmouth Lake Sunapee with this comprehensive travel guide that includes top attractions, hiking and biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more.
- Introduction to Dartmouth Lake Sunapee
- List of Places to Visit in Dartmouth Lake Sunapee
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Dartmouth Lake Sunapee
- Sunapee-Ragged-Kearsarge Greenway
- Northern Rail Trail
- Best Things to Do in Dartmouth Lake Sunapee: Activities and Tours
- Adventure Park at Mount Sunapee
- Sunapee Cruises
- Week-Long Itinerary for Dartmouth Lake Sunapee
- Food and Drink Scene of Dartmouth Lake Sunapee
- Where to Stay in Dartmouth Lake Sunapee: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- Lake Sunapee Region
- Dartmouth Region
- What to Buy in Dartmouth Lake Sunapee: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Dartmouth Lake Sunapee
- Best Time to Visit Dartmouth Lake Sunapee
- Do’s and Don’ts of Dartmouth Lake Sunapee
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Dartmouth Lake Sunapee: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Dartmouth Lake Sunapee
- Where to Go Next from Dartmouth Lake Sunapee: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- White Mountains
- Vermont
- Conclusion
Introduction to Dartmouth Lake Sunapee
Located in central New Hampshire, Dartmouth Lake Sunapee is a quintessential New England destination perfect for nature lovers, history buffs, and adventure seekers. Known for its stunning natural beauty, Dartmouth Lake Sunapee offers a wide range of outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, swimming, and skiing. The area is also steeped in history and culture, with numerous museums and historical sites to visit.
In this travel guide, we will take you through the top attractions, hiking and biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more in Dartmouth Lake Sunapee.
List of Places to Visit in Dartmouth Lake Sunapee
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
The Fells Historic Estate and Gardens
The Fells is a former summer estate of statesman and diplomat John Milton Hay. The property also features beautiful gardens, a plant nursery, and a gift shop.
Mount Kearsarge Indian Museum
The Mount Kearsarge Indian Museum is a cultural center devoted to preserving and promoting Native American art, history, and culture.
American Precision Museum
Located in Windsor, Vermont, the American Precision Museum showcases the history and evolution of manufacturing and precision engineering in America.
Natural Attractions of Dartmouth Lake Sunapee: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
Mount Sunapee State Park
Mount Sunapee State Park offers a variety of year-round outdoor activities, including hiking, skiing, snowboarding, camping, and swimming. The park also boasts stunning views of Lake Sunapee and the surrounding mountains.
Pillsbury State Park
Covering more than 2,700 acres, Pillsbury State Park features pristine woods, clear ponds, and numerous hiking trails. Visitors can also enjoy fishing, boating, and camping.
Lake Sunapee
Lake Sunapee is a popular destination for swimming, boating, and fishing. Visitors can rent kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards to explore the lake or take a cruise on the MV Mount Sunapee.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Dartmouth Lake Sunapee
Sunapee-Ragged-Kearsarge Greenway
The Sunapee-Ragged-Kearsarge Greenway is a 75-mile hiking trail that runs through the mountains and valleys of central New Hampshire. The trail passes through several state parks, including Mount Sunapee State Park, and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Northern Rail Trail
The Northern Rail Trail is a 58-mile trail that follows the route of an old railroad track. The trail is open to biking, hiking, and snowmobiling in the winter months.
Best Things to Do in Dartmouth Lake Sunapee: Activities and Tours
Adventure Park at Mount Sunapee
The Adventure Park at Mount Sunapee offers a variety of outdoor activities, including ziplining, aerial obstacle courses, and mountain biking.
Sunapee Cruises
Sunapee Cruises offers scenic boat tours of Lake Sunapee, featuring stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.
Week-Long Itinerary for Dartmouth Lake Sunapee
| Day 1 | Hike Mount Kearsarge |
|---|---|
| Day 2 | Visit The Fells Historic Estate and Gardens |
| Day 3 | Explore Mount Sunapee State Park |
| Day 4 | Take a boat tour of Lake Sunapee |
| Day 5 | Visit the American Precision Museum |
| Day 6 | Hike the Northern Rail Trail |
| Day 7 | Relax at Pillsbury State Park |
Food and Drink Scene of Dartmouth Lake Sunapee
Must-Try Dishes
Maple Syrup
New Hampshire is known for its delicious maple syrup. Try it on pancakes, waffles, or French toast.
Apple Cider Donuts
Another local specialty is apple cider donuts, a sweet treat perfect for breakfast or dessert.
Local Beverages
Local Craft Beer
New Hampshire has a thriving craft beer scene, with numerous breweries in the Dartmouth Lake Sunapee area. Try the award-winning IPAs from the Flying Goose Brew Pub or the Belgian-style brews from the Henniker Brewing Company.
Apple Cider
Apple cider is a popular fall beverage in New England. Visit one of the local orchards to taste some fresh-pressed cider.
Where to Stay in Dartmouth Lake Sunapee: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
Lake Sunapee Region
New Hampshire Mountain Inn
The New Hampshire Mountain Inn is a cozy bed and breakfast located in Wilmot, just minutes from Mount Sunapee State Park.
Sunapee Lake Lodge
The Sunapee Lake Lodge offers comfortable and affordable accommodations on the shore of Lake Sunapee.
Dartmouth Region
Hanover Inn Dartmouth
Located in the heart of Hanover, the Hanover Inn Dartmouth is a historic hotel that offers elegant rooms and suites.
Six South St Hotel
The Six South St Hotel is a boutique hotel in Hanover that features modern amenities and a complimentary breakfast.
What to Buy in Dartmouth Lake Sunapee: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Maple Syrup
Bring home a bottle of delicious New Hampshire maple syrup to enjoy on your pancakes.
Local Crafts
Visit one of the many craft fairs or farmer’s markets in the area to find handmade pottery, jewelry, and other unique gifts.
Local Culture and Customs of Dartmouth Lake Sunapee
New Hampshire is known for its “Live Free or Die” motto, which reflects the independent spirit of the state’s residents. Visitors should also be aware of the state’s strict laws on fireworks and the legal drinking age of 21.
Best Time to Visit Dartmouth Lake Sunapee
The best time to visit Dartmouth Lake Sunapee is in the fall, when the leaves turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow. The summer months (June to August) are also popular, as they offer the best weather for outdoor activities.
Do’s and Don’ts of Dartmouth Lake Sunapee
Do:
- Do try the local maple syrup and apple cider donuts.
- Do take advantage of the area’s stunning natural beauty and go hiking or biking.
- Do visit some of the local museums and cultural attractions.
Don’t:
- Don’t bring or set off fireworks.
- Don’t litter or damage natural areas.
- Don’t drink and drive.
Safety and Health
Safety in Dartmouth Lake Sunapee
Dartmouth Lake Sunapee is a safe destination for visitors. However, it’s important to be aware of the area’s wildlife, including bears and moose. Visitors should also take precautions when hiking or swimming.
Health in Dartmouth Lake Sunapee
Medical facilities are available in the nearby towns of Lebanon and New London. Visitors should also be aware of the tick-borne illness, Lyme disease, and take precautions when spending time outdoors.
Getting to Dartmouth Lake Sunapee: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Dartmouth Lake Sunapee
The closest airport to Dartmouth Lake Sunapee is Lebanon Municipal Airport (LEB), which is 25 minutes from Hanover. Manchester-Boston Regional Airport (MHT) is also within driving distance (90 minutes).
Bus Stations Near Dartmouth Lake Sunapee
The closest bus station to Dartmouth Lake Sunapee is the Dartmouth Coach terminal in Hanover.
Other Options
Renting a car is the easiest way to get around the area, as public transportation is limited.
How to Get Around in Dartmouth Lake Sunapee
The best way to get around in Dartmouth Lake Sunapee is by car. Rental cars are available at the airports and in nearby towns. Visitors can also use taxi or ride-sharing services.
Where to Go Next from Dartmouth Lake Sunapee: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
White Mountains
The White Mountains are located to the north of Dartmouth Lake Sunapee and offer stunning natural scenery, including Mount Washington, the Kancamagus Highway, and the Flume Gorge.
Vermont
Vermont is just a short drive away from Dartmouth Lake Sunapee and offers charming small towns, beautiful scenery, and great skiing and snowboarding.
Conclusion
Dartmouth Lake Sunapee offers visitors a perfect combination of natural beauty, history, and culture. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure, relaxing by the lake, or exploring local museums and attractions, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful New England destination.
