Canaan

A massive 923-acre wilderness preserve managed by the Upper Valley Land Trust, featuring some of New Hampshire's best peat bogs, 60-foot rock outcrops, and home to the endangered Canada Warbler. The property has four marked trails including Sweet Water Trail and Leo's Loop, winding through 95 acres of rare peat bog and 65 acres of wetlands at the headwaters of the Mascoma River. Most visitors never discover this pristine forever-wild area despite its biological treasures.

A linear historic district stretching along Canaan Street from the Old North Church to the Pinnacle House, featuring 60 contributing buildings from the Greek Revival and Federal periods. This was once a bustling stagecoach stop and 19th-century resort colony that rivaled Bethlehem as a White Mountain destination. The district includes the 1793 Meeting House, the former Noyes Academy site, and historic homes with stunning views of Canaan Street Lake.

A hidden half-mile trail leads to an educational nature hut deep in this unique forested wetland that changes dramatically with the seasons. From the hut, three shorter loop trails explore different habitats including the nesting grounds of the endangered Canada Warbler. The topography shifts from dry forest to seasonal wetland pools, creating a mini-ecosystem that few locals even know exists.

At the southern tip of this 625-acre pond lies a small public beach area near the historic dam, far quieter than the main Acre beach. The pond holds the New Hampshire state record for smallmouth bass and offers pristine waters with two islands and abundant wildlife including moose, bear, and nesting loons. The dam area provides intimate swimming with mountain views and is rarely crowded despite the pond's fishing fame.