Attractions and places to see around Hanover, New Hampshire, offer a blend of natural features and historical sites. The region is characterized by its lakes, forests, and trails, including a significant rail trail. Hanover is also home to Dartmouth University and is situated on the Connecticut River. This area provides opportunities for outdoor activities and exploration of local history.
Last updated: May 5, 2026
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The flagship of the city, founded in 1761, is the impressive building of the elite Dartmouth University. But even beyond that, Hanover exudes its very own charm with its location on the Connecticut River, interesting museums, theaters, cafés and restaurants. The long-distance Appalachian Trail runs directly through Hanover and tempts hikers to stay longer.
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A picturesque lake you will find along the trail and close to the town of Enfield. The lake feeds into the Mascoma River, which is a smaller river that flows into the Connecticut River. When winter comes, the lake freezes, creating a safe surface to walk on. Many people enjoy ice fishing here.
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This is a fantastic multi-use rail trail. It follows the path where the old Northern Line of the Boston and Maine Railroad used to be. The State of New Hampshire took over this area in 1996.
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Standing at 1,029 feet, Burnt Mountain offers great views of the surrounding forests. There is a small bench that makes for a nice spot for a snack break.
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Mascoma Lake is a 1,150-acre near Lebanon, New Hampshire. It is a popular spot for swimming and there are great views of the lake from the Northern Rail Trail.
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Once you reach Burnt Mountain, it's time to relax and enjoy the view over the lush green forest below you. For the best view, there is a little stone plate from where you can see far in a southern direction.
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The Upper Valley Land Trust provides a beautiful trail through Rix Ledges that allows for the escape from the workday congestion of Lebanon. The Ledges are scattered with interestingly shaped boulders and as you ascend to this outlook area, the traffic noise of Rt. 120 slowly slips away allowing for a temporary reprieve from the busy day. A great one to do on a work lunch break.
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The region offers several natural highlights. Mascoma Lake is a popular 1,150-acre lake known for swimming and scenic views, especially from the Northern Rail Trail. Another notable spot is Overlook Etna Rd and beyond, which provides a natural escape through Rix Ledges with interesting rock formations.
Yes, Hanover is rich in history. The Northern Rail Trail is a significant historical and recreational multi-use trail that follows the path of the old Northern Line of the Boston and Maine Railroad. You can also find the town of Hanover itself, founded in 1761, which is home to Dartmouth University and has a unique charm situated on the Connecticut River.
Hanover and its surroundings offer diverse outdoor activities. You can enjoy gravel biking on routes like the 'Mascoma Lake – Northern Rail Trail loop' or 'Crescent Lake loop'. For hiking, there are easy trails such as 'Velvet Rocks via Appalachian Trail' and 'Mink Brook Trail'. More challenging hikes are also available. You can find more details on these activities in the komoot guides for Gravel biking around Hanover and Hiking around Hanover.
Absolutely. Both Mascoma Lake and the Northern Rail Trail are considered family-friendly. Mascoma Lake is great for swimming, and the rail trail is perfect for multi-use activities like cycling and walking, suitable for all ages. The town of Hanover itself, with its university town atmosphere, also offers a pleasant environment for families.
For scenic views, Mascoma Lake offers picturesque vistas, especially from sections of the Northern Rail Trail. The Overlook Etna Rd and beyond provides a great outlook over natural landscapes. Additionally, Burnt Mountain, standing at 1,029 feet, offers expansive views over the lush green forests to the south.
The Northern Rail Trail is a fantastic multi-use trail that follows the historic path of the old Northern Line of the Boston and Maine Railroad. It's a significant recreational route, ideal for cycling, walking, and enjoying the scenery. Visitors often look for old names carved into the rocks along the way.
Yes, Mascoma Lake is a popular spot for swimming. It's a 1,150-acre lake located near Lebanon, New Hampshire, offering refreshing waters and beautiful surroundings.
Yes, the trail through Rix Ledges leading to Overlook Etna Rd and beyond is categorized as intermediate. It offers an escape into nature with interestingly shaped boulders. Burnt Mountain also features intermediate trails leading to its summit views.
Burnt Mountain, at 1,029 feet, offers stunning panoramic views over the surrounding lush green forests. There's a small stone plate at the summit providing the best southern views, and a bench for a relaxing snack break.
The town of Hanover, founded in 1761, is primarily known as the home of the elite Dartmouth University. Beyond the impressive university campus, Hanover exudes its own charm with its location on the Connecticut River, offering interesting museums, theaters, cafés, and restaurants. The long-distance Appalachian Trail also runs directly through Hanover.
When winter arrives, Mascoma Lake freezes over, creating a safe surface for activities. Many people enjoy ice fishing on the lake during the colder months.


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