3-Day Adventure Itinerary in White Mountain National Forest

A three-day weekend is a beautiful thing that shouldn't be wasted. It's easy to get caught up on chores and errands during those precious days off, so go ahead and get far, far away from those weekly worries. The White Mountain National Forest is only two hours from Boston, but it is light years away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Nestled in the Southwestern corner of the White Mountain National Forest, the town of Lincoln is the perfect base camp for adventure.

With family-owned restaurants, breweries, and inns, Lincoln offers small-town charm and hospitality that will set you up in comfort during your three-day excursion in the White Mountain wilderness. Whether you're on summer vacation, enjoying a long weekend, or just playing hooky, Lincoln and the surrounding White Mountains are the perfect places to get away and play. While the White Mountains offer hundreds of amazing outdoor adventures, here are a few of our must-do adventures.

The Pemigewasset Loop: You could spend an entire long weekend hiking this challenging 31.5-mile loop or simply hop on for a one-day segment. The Pemi Loop is the ultimate create-your-own-adventure hike, with varying lengths, loops, a dozen peaks, and several AMC huts and designated campsites. The loop is actually a collection of trails, making it easy to hop on and off wherever you like. The Mount Flume + Mount Liberty Loop,  9.8 miles of White Mountain goodness, is a nice option for dipping your toes into the Pemi Loop, and the trailhead is only a short drive from Lincoln. If you're up for a glorious challenge or just craving that Pemi-veteran status, hike on! 

Mount Tecumseh: Think you can't bag one of New Hampshire's 4,000 footers in an afternoon? Think again! Easier on the knees compared to other craggy New Hampshire hikes, this 6.2-mile trail up Mount Tecumseh is a delightful day hike that the whole family can enjoy. Only 30 minutes from town, this hike is a must for your Lincoln getaway. 

Upper Pemi: Kayakers can take a break from the trails to enjoy this 3-mile Class IV run. Paddle through crystal waters in the shadow of the White Mountains, enjoying the thrill of some stellar drops. One of the best parts of paddling this river is the cheers of shock and awe from the tourists visiting popular destinations like the Basin and the Flume.

Lonesome Lake Trail: At 3.2 miles, the Lonesome Lake Trail is pretty laid back but still offers steep grades and technical terrain. The trail begins at Lafayette Place Campground and ends at Lonesome Lake, rewarding hikers with amazing views of Mount Lafayette. Make this trip an overnight adventure by staying at the trailhead campground or reserving a spot at the AMC hut on the shores of Lonesome Lake for the chance to do some lakeside stargazing. 

Boulder Loop Trail: The Boulder Loop Trail is an easy-going 3.5-mile hike that's fun for the whole family. While the trailhead is only a 40-minute drive from Lincoln, give yourself some extra time to get there so that you can enjoy the views of the Swift River and the fun swimming holes that dot the Kancamangus Highway. The Boulder Loop Trail summit offers wide open space to enjoy a picnic and soak in the views of neighboring Mount Chocorua and Mount Passaconaway.