Discovering Ashland, NH: A 6-Day Itinerary

  • Day 1: Squam Lakes Natural Science Center
    4 minutes (0.2 miles) from Steele Hill Resort

    The Squam Lakes Natural Science Center offers visitors a chance to learn more about wildlife and the natural world. A variety of exhibits, educational programs, and live animal shows are available. You can also enjoy scenic boat tours on Squam Lake, where "On Golden Pond" was filmed.

  • Day 2: Meredith Sculpture Walk
    20 minutes (10.8 miles) from Squam Lakes Natural Science Center

    The Meredith Sculpture Walk is a delightful outdoor art exhibit that features over 30 original sculptures that change annually. You can wander through the town's historic Main Street, wander into local shops, and galleries.

  • Day 3: Castle in the Clouds
    21 minutes (11.3 miles) from Meredith Sculpture Walk

    Castle in the Clouds is a grand, historic mansion that offers incredible panoramic views of Lake Winnipesaukee and the surrounding mountains. Once inside check out their interactive exhibits, outdoor strolls, delicious cuisine, and a paddleboat ride on the lake.

  • Day 4: Canterbury Shaker Village
    22 minutes (13.4 miles) from Castle in the Clouds

    Canterbury Shaker Village is an outdoor museum celebrating the Shaker way of life with original buildings, exhibits, and interactive demonstrations. You can learn about farming, gardens, cooking, crafts, and community life in the 19th century.

  • Day 5: Polar Caves Park
    30 minutes (23.2 miles) from Canterbury Shaker Village

    Polar Caves Park is a natural wonder where you can explore caves and glacially-formed boulder passages, the Great Polar Bear, and the Old Man of the Mountain replica. The park offers a variety of outdoor activities, including rock climbing, mining for gems & fossils, and wooded picnic areas.

  • Day 6: White Mountains
    43 minutes (27.4 miles) from Polar Caves Park

    On your final day, take a scenic drive through the beautiful White Mountains of New Hampshire. Take your pick from a variety of stops along the Kancamagus Highway to capture stunning scenery and to visit country stores, restaurants, and hike through multiple walking trails.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Squam Lakes Natural Science Center (3 hours, $20)
  • Meredith Sculpture Walk (2 hours, Free)
  • Castle in the Clouds (4 hours, $18/$25 per adult without/with the boat tour)
  • Canterbury Shaker Village (4 hours, $20)
  • Polar Caves Park (4 hours, $20)
  • White Mountains (6 hours, Free)
  • Total Estimated Costs: $78/$95

Useful Tips

If you have more time, you can add some activities such as hiking in the White Mountains, visiting the League of NH Craftsmen Gallery, or exploring the town's museums. If you have less time, you could skip the Castle in the Clouds boat tour or the Polar Caves rock climbing. Regardless, this itinerary provides a range of activities for all types of travelers.

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