Boscawen

New Hampshire's first publicly funded statue sits on a small island where the Contoocook and Merrimack Rivers meet, marking the site of a dramatic 1697 colonial escape story. You cross a railroad bridge with a walking path to reach the 35-foot statue, and the damaged nose gives it an eerie, weathered character that adds to the haunting atmosphere. The surrounding area feels forgotten by time, with power lines cutting through and few visitors knowing the controversial yet fascinating history.

This quiet boat launch tucked away behind the county jail offers some of the best paddling on the Merrimack River that locals rarely share with outsiders. The gentle current and shallow depths make it perfect for families, while the sandy beaches that appear along the route provide secluded picnic spots where you might spot bald eagles. The put-in at Jamie Welch Park connects to the Northern Rail Trail, making it a hidden gateway to both water and land adventures.

This network of trails leads through nearly 1,000 acres of conservation land to the crumbling stone foundation of the historic Weir farmstead, operational until the 1930s. The old stone walls threading through the forest tell the story of when these woods were open dairy pastures, and the Colby Loop takes you over rocky terrain to discover this forgotten piece of local history. Locals love the moderate challenge and the sense of stepping back in time among the ruins.

Most people know about the famous rail trail, but few realize it starts right here in Boscawen at its most remote and peaceful section. The southern end near Hannah Duston Park & Ride offers 58 miles of packed stone dust trail through countryside that locals say rivals any New England rail trail for scenery. Starting from Jamie Welch Park, you'll have the trail nearly to yourself as it winds toward Lebanon, with the first few miles being the most pristine and wild.