Top 5 Lakes around Franklin

The most popular spot is Webster Lake Public Beach and Covered Bridge, known for its public beach on Webster Lake and a scenic covered bridge. Another highly regarded natural area is Kimball Pond Conservation Area, a 965-acre park with rolling hills, ponds, and creeks, important for rare species and wildlife spotting. The Northern Rail Trail (near Webster Lake) is also very popular for its scenic route alongside Webster Lake.

Yes, several spots are family-friendly. Webster Lake Public Beach and Covered Bridge offers a public beach perfect for families. Kimball Pond Conservation Area is also suitable for families looking to explore nature and spot wildlife. The Northern Rail Trail, with its compacted stone dust surface, is great for family walks or bike rides.

The area around Franklin's lakes offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can enjoy road cycling on routes like the Merrimack River and Kimball Pond Conservation Area loop. Hiking is popular, with trails such as the Franklin Falls Reservoir Park loop and sections of the Northern Rail Trail. Running is also a great option, with routes like the Webster Lake loop road run.

Absolutely! The Northern Rail Trail runs alongside Webster Lake, offering an easygoing, multi-use trail primarily made of compacted stone dust. This section is ideal for walking or cycling. You can also find other hiking options in the broader area, including the Franklin to Webster Lake route.

You'll find diverse natural features. Webster Lake itself is a significant landmark, offering beautiful views, especially from its public beach. The covered bridge over Chance Pond Brook near Webster Lake is a charming man-made feature. Kimball Pond Conservation Area provides rolling hills, ponds, and creeks, serving as a habitat for various wildlife. Additionally, Franklin Falls Reservoir Park offers great views of the Pemigewasset River.

There is a public beach and car parking available at the south end of Webster Lake. This makes it convenient to access the beach, the covered bridge, and the nearby Northern Rail Trail.

While the guide focuses on natural areas, the Northern Rail Trail itself is a historical landmark, as it was once the railbed of the Boston and Maine Railroad's Northern Line. The covered bridge over Chance Pond Brook near Webster Lake also adds a touch of historical charm to the landscape.

Kimball Pond Conservation Area is an important habitat for rare species such as the Pied Billed Grebe and Blandings Turtle. Visitors are likely to spot various wildlife along the trails within this 965-acre park.

The Northern Rail Trail, particularly the section near Webster Lake, has a surface that is mostly compacted stone dust. This makes it suitable for most bikes, except those with very skinny road tires, and is excellent for walking or running.

Yes, you can go swimming. Webster Lake Public Beach offers a designated area for swimming. Always check local regulations and conditions before entering the water at any location.

While the guide highlights popular spots, exploring the extensive Kimball Pond Conservation Area, with its 965 acres of rolling hills, ponds, and creeks, can offer opportunities for a more secluded experience, especially away from the main access points. The various hiking and cycling routes in the region also lead to quieter spots.

For runners, the Northern Rail Trail offers several excellent routes, including the Webster Lake loop road run and the Northern Rail Trail 5k from Webster Lake to Franklin Junction. The Franklin Falls Reservoir loop is another moderate option for a scenic run.