Lakes Region

New Hampshire's Lakes Region centers on Lake Winnipesaukee, the state's largest lake at approximately 69 square miles with 264 islands. The lake's 288 miles of shoreline touch eight towns and three cities across Belknap and Carroll counties. This area has drawn summer visitors since 1769, when Wolfeboro was established as what claims to be America's oldest summer resort.

The region includes numerous smaller lakes and ponds beyond Winnipesaukee, creating extensive opportunities for water-based recreation. Towns like Wolfeboro, Meredith, Laconia, and Moultonborough each offer different approaches to lakeside living, from historic downtown areas to family beaches. The landscape combines lake access with nearby mountains, including the Belknap Range and views toward the Ossipee Mountains.

What distinguishes the Lakes Region from New Hampshire's mountains or seacoast is its focus on lake-centered activities and the seasonal rhythm that comes with them. Summer brings boating, swimming, and waterfront dining, while winter transforms the area into a base for skiing at Gunstock Mountain Resort and ice fishing on the frozen lakes.

Summer from late June through early September offers the warmest weather and full access to water activities. July and August bring peak crowds and warmest water temperatures, ideal for swimming and boating. Laconia Motorcycle Week in June draws large crowds for nine days of motorcycle-related events. Most seasonal businesses and attractions operate full schedules during these months.

Fall provides hiking weather with foliage typically peaking in late September to early October, reflected in the lake waters. Winter brings skiing conditions at Gunstock, usually from December through March, plus ice fishing and snowmobiling once lakes freeze solid. Spring sees ice-out typically in April, marking the return of boating season, though many seasonal businesses don't fully reopen until Memorial Day weekend.

Lake Winnipesaukee dominates summer recreation, with public boat launches in multiple towns and marinas offering rentals. Weirs Beach provides the region's main public swimming area, while smaller lakes like Squam offer quieter paddling for kayakers and canoeists. Fishing targets lake trout, bass, and salmon from both boats and shore. Hiking options include the Mount Major trail in Alton for lake views, the Abenaki Tower Trail in Wolfeboro, and various peaks in the Belknap Range.

Winter recreation centers on Gunstock Mountain Resort, which offers downhill skiing and snowboarding with night skiing available. The frozen lakes become accessible for ice fishing and provide routes for snowmobiling, with trail systems connecting to broader state networks. Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails are available in state parks and conservation areas throughout the region. The shoulder seasons offer hiking with fewer crowds, particularly in fall when foliage reflects in the lake waters.

Wolfeboro anchors the region's dining scene with waterfront restaurants and Main Street establishments, including Bailey's Bubble for ice cream. Meredith's harbor area features restaurants like Lakehouse Grille, taking advantage of the town's boat access and downtown walkability. Laconia offers dining options near Weirs Beach, particularly busy during Motorcycle Week and summer events.

The region includes breweries and pubs that cater to both seasonal visitors and year-round residents, with establishments like Patrick's Pub in Gilford serving the ski crowd in winter. Cultural activities include the Interlakes Summer Theatre in Meredith, which continues to present professional productions. Art galleries operate in Wolfeboro and Meredith, and various towns host summer concert series at waterfront parks and bandstands.