Day Hikes – White Mountains
Bethlehem is the perfect home base for hikers, located in the White Mountain National Forest. Close by there are numerous easy, beginner, short, and family-friendly day hikes for warming up or for pint-sized adventure in every season—winter, spring, summer, and fall. Just be an explorer in Bethlehem!
Nearby hiking trails to check out:
Bretzfelder Memorial Park: As you wander through Bretzfelder Park, you won’t be able to miss its focal point, a giant white pine tree, estimated to be more than 200 years old. In the late 1800s, when Bethlehem was a haven for city folks seeking the clean air of the mountains, the tree became a popular place for visitors. Today, there are several trail loops through the park allowing for quiet exploration of the property during all seasons.
799 Prospect Street, Bethlehem, NH
https://forestsociety.org/property/bretzfelder-park
The Rocks: No matter the season, there’s plenty to explore at The Rocks. With extensive trails, they offer easy to moderate options, so there’s something for everyone! Trails are open year-round with an information booth and parking lot.
US-302, Bethlehem, NH 03574
Profile Recreational Rail Trail: The Profile Rail Trail is 1.5-mile-long trail in Bethlehem between Route 3 and Rt. 302. This trail is open year-round for a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, ATV’s & OHRVs. Parking is available on Muchmore Road and Trudeau Road off Route 302.
https://www.nhstateparks.org/visit/recreational-rail-trails/profile-recreational-rail-trail
Bethlehem Town Forest: The Town Forest can be accessed off Prospect Street, about 1 mile from Rt. 302 on the right. The forest is open to the public and non-motorized vehicles. (Hunting is prohibited).
Mount Agassiz: From the center of town, the Mount Agassiz Trail is on the left just before 577 Agassiz St. There is a small parking area and a paved trail up to the top of the mountain. No motorized vehicles are permitted.
Middle and North Sugarloaf Mountains: If you’re looking to hike within the White Mountain National Forest, try out Middle and North Sugarloaf Mountains. Trailhead is on Zealand Road in Carroll, NH (summits are in Bethlehem). Zealand Road leaves the west side of Rt. 302, which is 2.2 miles east of Rt. 3. Parking is one mile down, on the right.
https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/whitemountain/recarea/?recid=74735
The Bethlehem Conservation Commission put together a printable brochure of hiking and recreational trails in the area. Click here to download the brochure.
Just Be A Safe Hiker
Hiker Responsibility Code
With knowledge and gear. Become self-reliant by learning about the terrain, conditions, local weather and your equipment before you start.
To leave your plans. Tell someone where you are going, the trails you are hiking, when you’ll return and your emergency plans.
To stay together. When you start as a group, hike as a group, end as a group. Pace your hike to the slowest person.
To turn back. Weather changes quickly in the mountains. Fatigue and unexpected conditions can also affect your hike. Know your limitations and when to postpone your hike. The mountains will be there another day.
For emergencies. Even if you are headed out for just an hour, an injury, severe weather or a wrong turn could become life threatening. Don’t assume you will be rescued; know how to rescue yourself.
To share the hiker code with others.
Additional resources for hiking preparation, including how to plan your trip and what to know if you’re hiking with children or a group, can be found at www.hikesafe.com.
Click Here for a Printable Bethlehem Recreation Brochure.
