Whether you’re a newbie looking to enjoy some time outside in nature or an expert looking to push yourself on your next hike, there are many trails in the Upper Valley that are waiting for your next adventure.

Black Bear Loop

The Black Bear Loop in Hanover, NH, is described as an “easy to moderate hike on the northwest slope of Moose Mountain,” the Hanover Conservancy website said. It’s about 1.05 miles round trip with a 300 feet elevation gain. The conservancy says the hike should take about 1.25 hours. Learn more about the loop here. 

Bicknell Brook Loop Trail & Colette Trail

In Enfield, NH, the Bicknell Brook Loop Trail & Colette Trail give you beautiful views.

“From cascading waterfalls to open beaver wetlands to climax forest to a lake environment, these trails offer a wide range of habitat diversity,” the Upper Valley Land Trust said. The “easy” trails are about 2.5 miles long. Learn more about the trails here.

Gile Mountain Trail

The Gile Mountain Trail in Norwich, VT, offers a moderate challenge with two trail options: a 0.68 mile hiking trail and a longer switch-backed bike/ski trail. According to Trail Finder, the elevation gain to the summit ridge and fire tower observation area is 413 feet. Learn more here.

French's Ledges Trails

In Plainfield, Nh, French’s Ledges Trails “provides a wide variety of trails to suit many abilities,” Trail Finder’s website said.

“A short scramble up to the bald top of French's Ledges provides great 270 degree views,” Trail Finder said.

Learn more about French’s Ledges Trails here.

Holts Ledge via Appalachian Trail

If you’re looking for a more challenging hike, Holts Ledge via the Appalachian Trail in Lyme, NH.

“The shaded trail offers a refreshing escape on sunny days, and the gradual hills provide just the right amount of elevation to invigorate you without being overly challenging,” AllTrails said. It’s about 3.5 miles long and has a 1,236 foot elevation gain. AllTrails estimates it will take about 2.5 to 3 hours to complete. Learn more here.

Smarts Mountain

In Lyme, NH, Smarts Mountain offers a challenging 7.3 mile hike with a 2,385 foot elevation gain. AllTrails estimates it will take about 5 to 5.5 hours to complete.

“Leaving from the trailhead on Dorchester Road, hikers will climb up the Appalachian Trail to the summit of Smarts Mountain. After enjoying the views from the top head back down the Appalachian Trail for a short distance before meeting the Smarts Ranger Trail. Follow the Ranger Trail back down to the trailhead,” AllTrails said.

Learn more here.