Discover the 7 Stunning Natural Parks to Explore This Summer Across New England, Excluding Yellowstone
Discover the beauty and adventure that awaits in some of America's most breathtaking national parks and forests. From the rugged peaks of the White Mountains to the sandy shores of Cape Cod, these natural wonders offer a variety of outdoor activities for every enthusiast.
Acadia National Park, Maine
Located on Mount Desert Island off the coast of Maine, Acadia National Park is a marvelous green place on the Atlantic coast. Here, you can hike the challenging Precipice Trail to the summit of Champlain Mountain for breathtaking views, relax or swim at the picturesque Sand Beach, or explore the scenic Schoodic Peninsula on the mainland side. For sunrise views and panoramic vistas, drive or hike up Cadillac Mountain, the highest point on the U.S. East Coast. Take the scenic Park Loop Road for a 27-mile drive with stops at places like Thunder Hole and Jordan Pond. Enjoy boat tours, kayaking, or paddleboarding on Frenchman Bay.
White Mountains National Forest, New Hampshire
Within the White Mountains National Forest lies Franconia Notch State Park, a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Visit this park for hiking, biking, and scenic spots like Flume Gorge, Arethusa Falls, and Lonesome Lake. Consider challenging hikes like the Presidential Traverse, crossing several peaks. Explore Mount Washington, the tallest peak in the Northeast, accessible by hiking or cog railway.
Baxter State Park, Maine
In Baxter State Park, hike Maine’s highest peak, Mount Katahdin, especially the famous Knife Edge Trail, part of the Appalachian Trail terminus. Enjoy activities such as camping, canoeing, kayaking, fishing, rock climbing, and wildlife watching including moose. Drive the Waters Scenic Byway connecting Baxter State Park to Millinocket for beautiful views.
Franconia Notch State Park, New Hampshire
Franconia Notch State Park is located in the heart of New Hampshire's White Mountains, neighboring the White Mountains National Forest. See Flume Gorge, an impressive natural gorge with trails and waterfalls. Hike around scenic spots like Arethusa Falls and Lonesome Lake. Bike and hike wide trails, enjoy the Notch’s natural beauty, and consider the challenging Presidential Traverse hike.
Cape Cod National Seashore, Massachusetts
Though not specifically covered in the search results, Cape Cod National Seashore is famous for its sandy beaches, dunes, pine barrens, and coastal scenery. Visit for beach trips, hiking dunes, bird watching, and historic lighthouses.
Green Mountain National Forest, Vermont
Green Mountain National Forest, located in western Vermont, covers almost 1200 square kilometres and is a must-see destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Though not specified in the current results, common activities include hiking the Long Trail, scenic drives, skiing in winter, and enjoying fall foliage.
Mohawk Trail State Forest, Massachusetts
Mohawk Trail State Forest, located in western Massachusetts, is known for its scenic drives, winding rivers, and steep cliffs. Activities such as camping, fishing, and kayaking are also popular here.
In autumn, the colours of the maple leaves turn the whole landscape in Baxter State Park into a dash of fiery paint. Green Mountain National Forest offers a variety of landscapes from craggy peaks to lush green valleys. In winter, the White Mountains National Forest becomes a fantastic playground for snow sports enthusiasts, with downhill and cross-country ski trails. Acadia National Park offers a unique mix of mountains, forests, sandy beaches, and rocky coastlines.
For detailed itineraries and access info, official park websites should be consulted.
In the midst of New Hampshire's White Mountains, both Franconia Notch State Park and the White Mountains National Forest offer a multitude of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and scenic spots like Flume Gorge and Arethusa Falls. On Mount Desert Island off the coast of Maine, Acadia National Park presents the Precipice Trail, Sand Beach, Schoodic Peninsula, and Cadillac Mountain, catering to various outdoor enthusiasts who seek adventure.
The lifestyle of individuals who cherish home-and-garden pursuits may find tranquility in Green Mountain National Forest, Vermont, where activities like hiking the Long Trail, scenic drives, skiing, and admiring fall foliage provide a more serene escape from the magnificence of the parks and forests featured.
