Geographical Position and Climate of New Hampshire
New Hampshire is located in the northeastern region of the United States, within the New England area. It shares borders with Vermont to the west, Maine and the Atlantic Ocean to the east, Massachusetts to the south, and the Canadian province of Quebec to the north. Its geographical position offers a diverse landscape including the White Mountains, numerous lakes, and a small coastline along the Atlantic Ocean. The state’s highest peak is Mount Washington, known for its extreme weather conditions. New Hampshire’s geographical location plays a significant role in its climate, natural resources, and tourism industry.
Best time to visit New Hampshire
The best time to visit New Hampshire depends on the activities you’re interested in:
- Fall (September to November): Fall is a spectacular time to visit New Hampshire due to the stunning foliage. The state is known for its vibrant autumn colors, making it a popular destination for leaf-peeping. Cooler temperatures and fewer crowds after Labor Day make this an ideal time for hiking and enjoying the outdoors.
- Winter (December to February): If you enjoy winter sports like skiing, snowboarding, or snowshoeing, winter is the perfect time to visit. New Hampshire’s White Mountains offer some of the best ski resorts in the Northeast.
- Spring (March to May): Spring can be unpredictable with lingering snow or mud as the snow melts. However, as the weather warms up, the state’s flora comes to life, making it a good time for those looking to avoid crowds and enjoy the emerging natural beauty.
- Summer (June to August): Summer is great for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and water sports on New Hampshire’s lakes and along its short coastline. This is peak tourist season, so expect more crowds and higher prices.
Ultimately, the best time to visit New Hampshire is during the fall for the foliage or winter for the skiing, but each season offers its own unique set of attractions.
Travel to New Hampshire
- By Air: The Manchester-Boston Regional Airport (MHT) in Manchester is the state’s primary airport, offering a range of domestic flights. For international or more extensive domestic flight options, Boston’s Logan International Airport (BOS) in Massachusetts is about an hour’s drive from the southern border of New Hampshire.
- By Car: Driving is one of the most common ways to reach New Hampshire, with several major highways such as Interstate 93, Interstate 95, and Interstate 89 running through the state. These roads provide easy access from neighboring states and regions.
- By Bus: Various bus services operate routes to and from New Hampshire, connecting it with major cities in the Northeast. Companies like Greyhound, Concord Coach Lines, and Boston Express offer regular service to different parts of the state.
- By Train: Amtrak’s Downeaster train connects Boston to several towns in New Hampshire, including Durham and Exeter. The Vermonter line also passes through the western part of the state, with a stop in Claremont.
- By Ferry: While there are no ferry services directly to New Hampshire, there are ferry services to nearby coastal locations in Maine and Massachusetts, which can be a scenic alternative if you’re traveling from those areas.
Places to visit in New Hampshire
Important Information
Capital – Concord
Largest City – Manchester
Territory – 24,216 km2
Population – 1,402,054
Time Zone – UTC-5 (Eastern)