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 Below
are several nearby areas where you can drop in your canoe and do
some paddling. Remember, there are 274 bodies of water to
explore in the Lakes Region, and we only cover a few of
them. We assume that you're on this page because being on a
busy lake doesn't appeal to you as much as a peaceful day spent
gliding down a waterway where you are most likely the only person
there. For this reason, the bodies of water that we cover below
are some of the quieter and more remote places that are suited for
exploration by canoe instead of powerboat.
Before setting
out for the day, give some thought to bringing along a kit with
the following items: a spare paddle, binoculars, a bailing can or
bucket, life jackets, a pair of sunglasses, detailed charts and
maps, a camera, plenty of food and water, sunscreen, bug
repellant, band aids, rope, and matches. Bring along any
medications that you might need, such as if you are allergic to
bees.
Saltmarsh
Pond. This small
pond features undeveloped shores set at the base of several small
hills. Reach the pond is via Saltmarsh pond road, which exits to
the right about a half mile eat of the Gilford by-pass on RT
11a. The nearby hills can be climbed to make for an
interesting trip.
Merrymeeting
Marsh. This
very large marsh will take you on a winding trip almost four miles
long though swamp grasses and bogs. It's a beautiful paddle,
complete with islands to explore and plenty of wildlife to
observe. Put in next to the RT 11 bridge that crosses the
river about a half mile west of the exit to New Durham.
Gilman Pond. A
wonderful small pond located in East Alton off Rt 28 via Gilman
Corners Road. A steep hill sits to the ponds northeast,
creating a pleasant backdrop and a possible place to stop and hike
for some views. The ponds western shore still have the
remains of a dam and mill erected several centuries ago.
Wickwas
Lake. A pretty lake
with much variety, including marshes, short streams, and islands.
Nice wooded shoreline, although now partially developed. It is
best to find a time when motorboat traffic is likely to be lower,
unless you enjoy their company. Pretty and quiet in the spring and
fall. Loons can occasionally be viewed on this lake. Find off of
route 104 between Meredith and New Hampton.
Berry
Pond. This small
pond sits off of Route 25 in Moultonboro. While small, it
has a lengthy quiet marsh at it's north end well away from the
road that can be explored. Depending on water level and
vegetation, you can carve your way in up to a mile or more. The
pond features a spectacular backdrop of mountains and forests that
make up for any shortcomings it has with it's size or roadside
location.
Garland
Pond. About a mile
of open water leads the way to the Red Hill River that opens up
several more options for flatwater exploration. The public
access is across the street from the Agway on Rt 25, about a mile
southwest of Moultonboro Center. This area is within a wildlife
refuge, and the wildlife does not disappoint. With a little
luck you may even catch a glimpse of an eagle.
Lake
Winona. Some
cottages dot the shore of this small lake in Center Harbor. You
can put in your canoe at the lakes southern end where these is a
launch.
Lake
Waukewan. Right in
Meredith, this lake is well developed and often has several boats
on it in the summer. It's orientation makes it prone to
significant chop if it's windy.
White Oak
Pond. Access to
this pond is obtained off of route 3 in Holderness. The pond
has an excellent inflow and outflow marsh you can wind through and
explore. Wildlife is plentiful along the ponds undeveloped side.
Pemigewasset
Lake. Set along
route 104 between Meredith and New Hampton, this little lake has a
well settled roadside shore and a quieter remote shore. It's
a pleasant lake to explore and offers a small inlet for paddling
and exploring. |
