Favorite Hikes in Peterborough

There are several different places in the Peterborough area alone to hike or go on walks. Just up the road from the Jack Daniels Inn is Shieling Forest. A beautiful and casual hike through this property takes about 40 minutes from start to finish, offering a low impact hike that one can really enjoy. Flowing through the forest is a small brook that during the earlier months features a splendid array of flowers blooming alongside it. In the far end of the property there are glacier granite boulders that are popular for climbing on, too! With such a quick hike, it’s a perfect way to start the morning or enjoy a casual and quick trek.

Just on the border between Peterborough and Temple is Miller State Park. Home of Pack Monadnock, this mountain offers not only several trails to take, but an auto road as well. This hike is perfect for a few hours up either the Wapack or Marion Davis Trail with beautiful views from the top. There is even a looping summit trail to enjoy, giving you a view different angles to look across the Monadnock Region.

Another favorite is Edward MacDowell Lake and Dam. A perfect area for tons of family fun, the manmade lake has a small beach that kids love to play at, a boat ramp just a little ways down the graveled path that entices fishers and casual boat owners alike, and picnic tables for people to have lunch at or host an outdoor party. There’s even a trail through the woods that runs alongside the lake on the other side of the dam!

The list could go on, since we are so lucky to be in a place that offers a plethora of outdoor activities. There’s bound to be something fun for everyone, and with so much to choose from a trip could easily turn into a yearly (or monthly!) tradition.