5-Day Itinerary for Ashland, NH

  • Day 1: Squam Lakes Natural Science Center
    14 minutes (6.7 miles) from Ashland

    The Squam Lakes Natural Science Center is an environmental education center with over 200 acres of walking trails and gardens for visitors to explore. They feature many live animal exhibits, including black bears, otters, and mountain lions.

  • Day 2: Riveredge Marina
    20 minutes (9.7 miles) from Squam Lakes Natural Science Center

    Riveredge Marina is located on the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee and offers a variety of water sports, including boat rentals, water skiing, and tubing. Fishing charters are also available for those who enjoy fishing.

  • Day 3: Castle in the Clouds
    24 minutes (11.7 miles) from Riveredge Marina

    The Castle in the Clouds is a historic mansion built in 1914 and offers guided tours of the house and gardens. Visitors can also explore the many walking trails with stunning views of the lake and mountains.

  • Day 4: Polar Caves Park
    35 minutes (19.2 miles) from Castle in the Clouds

    Polar Caves Park is a natural attraction featuring a series of caves and rock formations for visitors to explore. There are also hiking trails, a maple sugar house, and a mining area where children can search for gemstones and fossils.

  • Day 5: Squam Lakes Association
    31 minutes (16.8 miles) from Polar Caves Park

    The Squam Lakes Association offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking trails, canoe and kayak rentals, and guided boat tours of the lake. The association also hosts educational programs about the wildlife and conservation efforts in the area.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Squam Lakes Natural Science Center (2 hours, $20)
  • Riveredge Marina (4 hours, $80)
  • Castle in the Clouds (3 hours, $25)
  • Polar Caves Park (4 hours, $25)
  • Squam Lakes Association (3 hours, $50)
  • Total Estimated Costs: $200

Useful Tips

If you have extra time, consider visiting the Owl's Nest Resort for golfing and scenic views, or the White Mountain National Forest for hiking and camping. If you have less time, you can skip the Riveredge Marina and the Squam Lakes Association, and spend more time at the Castle in the Clouds and Polar Caves Park. Make sure to check the opening and closing times of each location before visiting, as they may vary based on the season.

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