Squam Lake: Best New Hampshire Spot for Fall Foliage

Autumn’s blazing colors sweep across New England, and travel experts keep nudging leaf-peepers toward quieter, less-crowded spots. One place that’s catching some national buzz is Squam Lake in Holderness, New Hampshire.

Yankee Magazine recently spotlighted Squam as one of the region’s most serene destinations for fall foliage. This glacier-carved lake delivers not just incredible scenery but also a peaceful alternative to New England’s busier hotspots.

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If you’re coming from Connecticut—maybe from Hartford, New Haven, or Norwich—Squam Lake makes a tempting road trip. You’ll find natural beauty, wildlife, and plenty of outdoor activities to break up the routine.

A Tranquil Alternative to Popular Fall Spots

Lake Winnipesaukee usually gets the crowds, but Squam Lake moves at its own, slower pace. Yankee Magazine gave Squam high marks for peaceful waters that mirror those wild, fiery treetop colors—photographers and nature lovers can’t really ask for more.

The lake’s claim to fame as the setting for the 1981 Oscar-winning movie On Golden Pond adds a bit of nostalgia, especially if you’re a classic film fan from Stamford or Waterbury.

Scenic Cruises and Wildlife Viewing

One of the best ways to soak up Squam Lake’s fall colors? Hop aboard a 90-minute, naturalist-led pontoon boat cruise from the Squam Lakes Natural Science Center. These guides know their stuff—they’ll point out brilliant foliage and local wildlife.

Keep your eyes peeled for:

Bald eagles
Common loons
Kingfishers
Other migratory and native bird species

If you’re a birdwatcher from Danbury or New London, this is a chance to catch some unique sights and learn a bit about the area’s ecology.

Hiking Trails for Every Skill Level

If you’d rather explore on foot, the Squam Lakes Association keeps up a variety of trails. You’ll find everything from easy, family-friendly walks to tougher climbs with stunning summit views.

Trail Recommendations

Some top picks include:

Chamberlain Reynolds Memorial Forest Trails – flat and easy, perfect for a laid-back afternoon.
Whitten Woods – a bit more challenging, with rolling hills and open viewpoints.
East Rattlesnake Trails – moderate, but the overlooks of the lake and mountains are worth the effort.

If you’re up for a challenge, try the steeper climbs. They’ll reward you with sweeping vistas—ideal for anyone escaping the bustle of places like Bridgeport or Milford.

Beyond Fall: A Year-Round Destination

Squam Lake really shines in autumn, but there’s more to it than just fall colors. Reader’s Digest named it one of New Hampshire’s top freshwater swimming spots, so summer brings out the paddlers and swimmers.

When winter rolls in, you’ll find snowshoeing and cross-country skiing on the surrounding hills. There’s just always something to do, which makes Squam a spot people keep coming back to from Connecticut and beyond.

Why Connecticut Travelers Love Squam Lake

The mix of gorgeous scenery, plenty of things to do, and a laid-back vibe really hits home for folks who want to slow down but still stay active. Compared to the busier tourist areas, Squam offers:

Fewer crowds, even during peak foliage
Lots of wildlife and birdwatching
Hiking for everyone, no matter your fitness level
Classic New England small-town charm close by

Planning Your Trip from Connecticut

The drive from Connecticut to Holderness, NH usually takes somewhere between 3.5 to 5 hours, depending on where you start. That’s just right for a long-weekend escape, if you ask me.

Pack a camera, binoculars, and some sturdy walking shoes. You’ll want them if you want to actually enjoy the trip.

Lots of folks like to pair their Squam adventure with stops in other scenic New Hampshire towns. Sometimes they even swing through Vermont for a longer foliage tour—why not?

Maybe you’re in Hartford County and craving a romantic fall weekend. Or you’re from Litchfield and just want some quiet lakeshore time.

Families from Fairfield often come up looking for a refreshing outdoor escape. Squam Lake really does have that classic New England autumn vibe—colors, calm, and a touch of charm that’s hard to forget.

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Here is the source article for this story: This lake was named the best place to look at fall foliage in New Hampshire. Here’s why

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