Explore
Our natural areas offer a wealth of recreational opportunities. Below you will find a list of trails in the Newfound watershed. You can support land conservation, and it’s many benefits to our community, by becoming a member of NLRA today!
LEARN MOREGrey Rocks Conservation Area
(directions) (trail map)
From the parking lot, follow signs, on foot, to the Cockermouth River Loop. A short walk brings you to the river platform across from the Charles Bean Sanctuary. After returning to the parking lot, hike along the Floodplain Loop to enjoy another viewing platform. Extend your hike further by walking the Sandy Point Trail. The sandy opening offers a great picnic area and views up to Bald Knob and Crosby Mountain. Learn more.
Goose Pond & Sugarloaf Conservation Area
(directions) (trail map)
You may choose to park at the Wellington State Park (fee) or the Elwell Trailhead across the street (W. Shore Rd). The Elwell trail takes you to expansive views of the lake or the secluded Goose Pond area. Learn more.
Newfound Audubon Center
(directions) (trail map)
The Newfound Audubon Center trails lead you along the north shore of the lake with severalviews to the south. It is home to a fantastic Nature Center (seasonal) and kayak rentals. Learn more.
AMC Cardigan Lodge
(directions) (trail map)
As part of the AMC trail network, Cardigan Mountain is a gem. It is known for it’s exposed summit with 360 degree views and a fire tower. This is a must for avid hikers in the lakes region. Feeling adventurous? Stay the night at the summit cabin, base lodge, or in a tent! Learn more.
Slim Baker Conservation Area
(directions) (trail map)
Located near downtown Bristol, this area is loaded with hiking trails including Inspiration Point. From this point you can see Cardigan, Tenney Mountain, and beyond. Learn more.
Butman Family Forest
The Butman Family Forest is private property, with trails open to the public thanks to gracious landowners Marcia Butman and Toby Sackton. The trails, shown in the downloadable guide, were made by loggers like Dave Sharp and the late Eben Beever of Hebron, Bob Butman, Marcia Butman, Toby Sackton and Kim Sharp of Alexandria. It is printed in the hope that family and friends, and Alexandria neighbors, will use and enjoy this land. Please treat all trails with respect and practice Leave No Trace principles.
Other Must-See Areas:
Hebron Town Forest- Short hikes along a brook and up hillsides with several vistas (directions) (trail map)
Cockermouth Forest- Great views of the lake to the south from Mt. Crosby and Bald Knob (directions) (trail map)
Plymouth Mountain- Newfound to the west, Squam to the east, and the White Mountains to the North. (directions from Newfound Side and Plymouth Side)
Sculptured Rocks- A geological wonder in the heart of the Newfound Watershed. Bring a bathing suit! (directions)
Profile Falls- This 30′ horsetail waterfall is a short walk from the road and incorporates many miles of trails for mountain biking and hiking. (directions)
Bristol Falls Park- This path follows the Pemigewasset River from downtown Bristol to the junction of the Smith River. The first section has been paved, with future improvements to come! Learn more.
