A Guide to the Best Kayaking in New Hampshire

Kayaking in New Hampshire offers a variety of stunning lakes, rivers and coastal areas to explore. Each location offers unique charm and beauty. The state’s waterways are known for their wildlife-rich environments, serene landscapes and opportunities to witness breathtaking fall foliage displays. 

Whether you’re a beginner looking for calm waters for leisurely exploration or an experienced paddler seeking a challenge, this state’s bodies of water offer something for every kind of kayaking enthusiast.

We’ve compiled a guide to the best kayaking in New Hampshire to include a few spots with unique features and attractions. You’ll also learn about the best seasons for kayaking, our top fishing spot recommendations and suggested kayak trips with scenic paddling routes that are sure to create a memorable experience.

Get ready to kayak in New Hampshire!

Best Places to Kayak in New Hampshire

With incredible scenery wherever you paddle, how do you choose the ideal destination? We’ve picked the picturesque Lake Winnipesaukee, the historic Merrimack River and the tranquil Squam Lake.

Lake Winnipesaukee 

Depending on who you ask, Winnipesaukee either means “smile of the great spirit,” “good outlet” or “beautiful water in a high place.” If you want to spend a day in nature, relaxing in your kayak on calm waters, this is the place for you. Lake Winnipesaukee is the largest lake in New Hampshire at 72 square miles, located at the foothills of the White Mountains east of Laconia. Crystal-clear waters and wooded shorelines make it a popular destination for relaxation and water sports. 

After launching your kayak from one of the lake’s sandy beaches, you can follow the shoreline for a leisurely paddle to enjoy fishing, swimming or picnicking breaks along the way. Numerous islands on Lake Winnipesaukee offer exciting opportunities for exploration and adventure by yourself or with family and friends. Make sure to look for birds and other wildlife.

You can launch from many locations, including parks surrounding the lake. Alternatively, try any of these towns’ access points:

• Alton Bay: This area is known for its calm waters and scenic surroundings, including nearby islands and coves.
• Meredith: The public kayak launch at Leavitt Park Beach in this charming town provides easy access to the water.
• Wolfeboro: Launch your kayak from one of the public access points in town.

Merrimack River 

The Merrimack River is a significant waterway in New England, flowing through Massachusetts and New Hampshire. It stretches over 100 miles with calm areas and faster-moving sections for kayaking. Along its banks, you can enjoy scenic views, wildlife sightings and even opportunities for fishing and birdwatching.

The river is known for its historical importance. It served as a source of fresh water and fish for early settlements and provided fertile agricultural land along its floodplains. In the 19th century, textile mills harnessed energy from its swift currents and waterfalls, establishing bustling mill towns like Lowell and Manchester along its banks. 

Today, this waterway provides drinking water for around 500,000 people in Massachusetts and greater Nashua communities, and it has become the central artery for tourists.

For an enjoyable paddling experience, kayak these stretches on the river:

• Concord to Penacook: This section offers a mix of calm waters and gentle rapids. It passes through scenic wooded areas and open fields.
• Manchester to Hooksett: Explore a blend of city views and natural scenery with opportunities to spot wildlife along the banks.
• Lowell to Tyngsborough: Keen for a longer adventure? This stretch showcases historic mill buildings and picturesque bridges.
• Haverhill to Lawrence: Experience industrial history and natural beauty with easy access points and diverse paddling conditions.

Squam Lake

Squam Lake is a stunning freshwater lake located in central New Hampshire, known for its clear waters and tranquil surroundings. It’s connected to another lake with a narrow channel. Made famous by the 1981 movie “On Golden Pond,” the 6.5-mile-long lake offers nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts a peaceful retreat. The lake is surrounded by lush forests and rolling hills, creating a picturesque backdrop for kayaking, fishing and wildlife watching.

The Chamberlain-Reynolds Memorial Forest offers a peaceful launch point with easy access to Squam Lake’s calm waters. Another convenient spot to start your paddling journey is Moon Island Launch, located on the eastern shore of Squam Lake.

Here’s some tips for kayaking on the lake:

• Check the weather: Always review the weather forecast to ensure safe paddling conditions. Be prepared for changing conditions and dress accordingly.
• Bring essentials: Pack water, snacks, sunscreen, a first aid kit and a map of the lake for longer trips.
• Respect wildlife: Respect the beautiful natural surroundings. Keep a safe distance from wildlife, especially nesting birds like loons.
• Explore natural gems: Take time to explore the quiet coves and public accessible islands where you can enjoy peaceful paddling and observe the beauty of nature up close.

Best Seasons for Kayaking in New Hampshire

Kayaking season in New Hampshire typically runs from Abril or Mayo to Septiembre. You can kayak any time of year, including winter, as long as you’re prepared, but late spring, summer and early fall offer ideal kayaking conditions in the state. Here’s a breakdown of each season.

Spring Kayaking 

Late spring is a great time for kayaking in New Hampshire as the weather starts to warm up slowly, and nature comes alive with blooming flowers and greenery. Rivers and lakes are usually full from spring rains, giving ideal water levels for paddling.

The weather warms faster in the southeast of the state where the Atlantic Ocean outlet is. Although the temperature only rises from Mayo, kayaking in spring has its benefits:

• Milder temperatures: Spring offers comfortable temperatures for kayaking. You can avoid the extreme heat of summer while still enjoying pleasant weather in the water.
• Less crowded: This time of year sees fewer crowds on the cold waterways than in peak summer months, allowing for a more peaceful and serene kayaking experience.
• Wildlife viewing: Springtime is ideal for wildlife sightings as animals become more active. You can observe birds, fish and other creatures in their natural habitats.

Be prepared for fluctuating temperatures by dressing in layers that you can easily add or remove on your kayak trip.

Summer Kayaking

Summer is the peak season for kayaking in New Hampshire with warm temperatures and long daylight hours, perfect for extended paddling trips. Lakes and rivers are warmest during this time, making it enjoyable for all kinds of water activities.

You’ll want to dress comfortably in shorts and a T-shirt or bathing suit, but ensure you have sun protection with a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen to prevent sunburn, dehydration and other heat-related issues. While summer days are inviting for outdoor activities, you may want to avoid kayaking during peak temperatures.

Here are other safety tips to consider:

• Wear a life jacket: Always wear a properly fitted life jacket while kayaking to ensure your safety on the water.
• Stay hydrated: Bring an adequate water supply on your kayaking trip, especially on hot summer days.
• Inform others: Let someone know your planned route and expected return time, whether you’re paddling alone or with others.

Fall Kayaking

Early fall offers cooler temperatures and stunning foliage colors, creating a scenic backdrop for kayaking adventures. Autumn’s comfortable conditions make it pleasant to be out on the water without the heat and humidity of summer. 

With the peak tourist season winding down, you’ll likely encounter fewer crowds on the waterways during fall, allowing for a more peaceful and serene paddling experience amidst the changing leaves. You may experience the occasional rain, but they are usually short-lived.

Fall is still a good time for wildlife sightings as animals prepare for winter. You may have the chance to observe migratory birds, deer and other wildlife along the shores while kayaking.

Autumn in New Hampshire presents excellent opportunities for capturing breathtaking photographs from your kayak. The colorful leaves reflecting on the water create picture-perfect scenes that are ideal for kayak and photography enthusiasts.

Fishing Spots for Kayakers

Kayak anglers can access shallow waters, navigate tight spaces and sneak up on fish without disturbing them. It can be quite the workout as kayakers lack the luxury of firing up a boat engine to speed off to another location looking for fish. That’s why scouting and taking note of prime fishing spots are important. Our favorite areas include Lake Sunapee and the Connecticut River.

Lake Sunapee 

Surrounded by mountains and crystal-clear waters, Lake Sunapee provides a picturesque backdrop for kayak fishing excursions. It’s a glacial lake in three towns — Sunapee, New London and Newbury.

Lake Sunapee gives you a relaxing, rural feel and is an ideal destination for fishing and exploring, with 11 islands, three lighthouses and numerous peninsulas.

The lake boasts a diverse fish population, including:

• Horned pout
• Lake trout
• Lubina
• Pickerel
• Rock bass
• Salmón
• Lubina
• Yellow perch

The fish in Lake Sunapee are more active in the early morning and late evening, although temperature and barometric pressure changes can affect their behavior. You can ask local anglers for advice about the best fishing spots or start with any of these areas:

• Mount Sunapee State Park
• Sunapee Harbor
• Burkehaven Cove
• Loon Island Lighthouse

Río Connecticut

The Connecticut River flows between New Hampshire and Vermont. It’s a prime fishing destination during summer, although the river offers year-round excitement for anglers of all levels. The Connecticut River is abundant with various species:

• Bass
• Bluefish
• Carpa
• Catfish
• Lubina
• Lucio del norte
• Perch
• Shad
• Lubina
• Striped bass
• Trucha
• Walleye

Fishing in the Connecticut River can be very fruitful, depending on the season and what part of the river you fish in. Two areas only allow fly fishing — below First Connecticut Lake and Second Connecticut Lake. In the rest of the river, you may use bait and lure.

With the river stretching for miles, knowing where to fish with your kayak can be confusing. Our favorite spots include Old Saybrook, where the Connecticut River empties into Long Island Sound, downstream from the dam in Holyoke and Tailwater stretches near Pittsburg.

Kayak Trips in New Hampshire

New Hampshire offers several opportunities for kayak trips, allowing paddlers to immerse themselves in the state’s scenic waterways and natural beauty.

Multiday Kayak Trips

Here are a few notable multiday kayak trips in New Hampshire:

• Connecticut River Paddling Trail: This trail spans from the Canadian border in New Hampshire to Long Island Sound. Paddlers can embark on multiday trips along different river sections, exploring diverse landscapes, wildlife habitats and historic sites while camping at designated campsites along the way.
• Squam Lake: Paddlers can navigate through interconnected waterways surrounded by wooded shores, islands and mountain views. Camping options are available for overnight stays at designated campsites or on remote islands.
• Lake Sunapee: Explore the lake’s numerous coves and scenic shoreline while camping at nearby campgrounds or state parks for a multiday excursion filled with fishing, swimming and relaxation.

When preparing for longer trips, ensure you have the following essential gear:

• Dry bag
• Map of the waterway
• Enough food and drinks
• Layers of clothes

Family-Friendly Kayaking Routes 

You’ll find some destinations for family-friendly kayaking trips that are suitable for paddlers of all ages and skill levels, including:

• Great Glen Trails: Their guide wildlife kayaking tours around northern New Hampshire are designed for the entire family, even if you’ve never paddled.
• Merrimack River: The section between Concord and Manchester provides a gentle and scenic route for families with children. Paddlers can enjoy calm waters and opportunities to spot wildlife along the riverbanks.
• Pemigewasset River: The Pemi in the White Mountains region offers family-friendly kayaking opportunities with stunning mountain views and gentle currents. Families can take short paddling trips along this scenic river surrounded by forests and wildlife habitats.

Adventure Kayaking Routes

For kayakers seeking more adventurous and challenging routes in New Hampshire, several options offer excitement and opportunities to explore rugged landscapes.

• Saco River: The Saco River in eastern New Hampshire offers a mix of calm stretches and moderate rapids, making it a popular choice for adventure kayaking trips. Paddlers can enjoy scenic forests, rocky outcrops and rope swings along the sandy river banks.
• Swift River: This river in the White Mountains is known for its fast-flowing waters and technical paddling opportunities. Kayakers must navigate through rocky channels, tight turns and swift currents, testing their skills and agility on this adventurous river route.
• Androscoggin River: Kayakers looking for whitewater paddling experiences will have a thrilling adventure on this river. A few sections feature rapids that provide a challenge for more experienced paddlers.

Enhance Your Kayaking Experience With EZ Dock

For kayakers exploring New Hampshire’s waterways, having access to well-designed docks and kayak launches can make launching and landing more convenient. Kayak launches and floating docks from EZ Dock provide safe and stable platforms for embarking on water adventures. 

Our products can enhance the kayaking experience at your waterfront property, improving accessibility and ease for those managing public or private water. Our floating docks are slip-resistant and sturdy enough to withstand most weather conditions. They readily adjust to changing water levels and are easy to install. EZ Dock docks are ideal for fishing, swimming and relaxing, creating the ultimate multifunctional hangout area for the entire family.

Make exploring New Hampshire’s kayaking destinations memorable, and consider EZ Dock for your dock and kayaking needs. Request a quote for one of our products today.