Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Lake Winnisquam Scenic Trail
Cycling
5.0
(3)
Road cycling
5.0
(1)
The Lake Winnisquam Scenic Trail is a beloved paved rail-trail nestled in Belmont, New Hampshire, offering picturesque views of Lake Winnisquam, the fourth-largest lake entirely within the state. This accessible pathway winds along the eastern shore of the lake, providing a tranquil escape in the heart of New Hampshire's scenic Lakes Region. It's a prime destination for those seeking easy trails and beautiful natural features.
Visitors consistently praise the trail for its stunning lakeside vistas and the peaceful atmosphere it provides. Many highlight the joy of walking or cycling along the banks of Lake Winnisquam, enjoying the fresh air and the serene beauty of the water. The trail's generally flat terrain and paved surface make it an inviting option for a wide range of activities and abilities, drawing people back for its consistent charm.
Before heading out, it's helpful to know that the Lake Winnisquam Scenic Trail is fully paved, making it suitable for walking shoes, running shoes, or cycling gear. Parking is available, with the eastern trailhead conveniently located near Leslie E. Roberts Beach and Recreation area, which also offers picnic tables, a playground, and restrooms. The trail is known for being family-friendly and dog-friendly, so feel free to bring your loved ones, including leashed pets.
This trail is ideal for year-round enjoyment, though the lush greenery of spring and summer, or the vibrant foliage of autumn, offer particularly scenic experiences. It's a popular spot for walking, running, cycling, and even rollerblading. Its connection to the southern trailhead of the 2.7-mile WOW Trail allows for longer excursions and varied scenery, making it a great choice for those looking to extend their adventure.
Along its approximately 1.8 to 2-mile length, the Lake Winnisquam Scenic Trail offers a delightful blend of open lake views and shaded woodland sections. You'll catch glimpses of the active railroad tracks and might even spot local wildlife. A picnic pavilion is available about 0.7 miles from Osborne's Agway, providing a perfect spot for a break and to soak in the surroundings.
The trail's accessibility and gentle nature make it a perfect choice for families with kids or anyone seeking an easy, enjoyable outdoor experience. The clear views across Lake Winnisquam, with its surrounding mountains and forests, create memorable moments. It’s a wonderful way to experience the natural beauty of Belknap County without strenuous effort.
Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll, a brisk run, or a scenic bike ride, the Lake Winnisquam Scenic Trail offers a variety of routes to explore. You can discover more options and plan your visit using komoot, which provides detailed maps and insights from other hikers and cyclists. This trail is a fantastic way to enjoy the natural splendor and scenic viewpoints of the Lakes Region.
Tips
October 10, 2023
Cycling
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Lake Winnisquam Scenic Trail
5.0
(2)
16
riders
14.2km
00:50
80m
80m
The WOW and Winni Trail offers a delightful touring cycling experience, blending flat, scenic sections with a few moderate inclines. You'll pedal along a paved, multi-use path, enjoying diverse scenery that includes glimpses of Lake Winnipesaukee, Opechee Bay, and Lake Winnisquam, as well as shaded forests and vibrant public art in downtown Laconia. This 8.8-mile (14.2 km) route, with its 252 feet (77 metres) of elevation gain, is rated easy and typically takes about 50 minutes to complete.
This family-friendly trail connects Lakeport in Laconia to Belmont's Osborne's Agway, making it accessible from various points. As a paved, 10-foot-wide pathway, it's suitable for a range of users, including those with electric wheelchairs and dogs on leash. You'll find opportunities to stop at Bartlett Beach for lake views or explore local shops and restaurants when passing through Laconia.
More than just a cycling route, the WOW and Winni Trail system is a significant community asset, utilizing former railroad corridors to create a continuous link in the regional trail network. It's considered a unifying landmark for Laconia, preserving historical routes while offering modern recreational opportunities. Future plans aim to extend the trail even further, enhancing its role as a key part of the New Hampshire Lakes Region's outdoor offerings.
4
riders
The Lake Winnisquam Scenic Trail – Lake Winnisquam Scenic Trail loop from Lake Wicwas offers a fantastic touring cycling adventure, combining the smooth pavement of the scenic trail with the challenge of a longer road loop around Lake Winnisquam. You'll be treated to stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains, especially as the route meanders through shaded woodlands and opens up to water vistas near Leslie Roberts Beach. This moderate 22.9-mile (36.8 km) ride, with 1249 feet (381 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 2 hours and 20 minutes, making it a perfect half-day excursion for those who enjoy varied terrain and beautiful scenery.
For planning your visit, you'll find parking and facilities, including restrooms and picnic tables, at the Leslie E. Roberts Beach and Recreation Area, which serves as a convenient access point to the paved Lake Winnisquam Scenic Trail. The route is well-suited for touring bikes and offers a continuous path that can be extended by connecting to the nearby WOW Trail. While the paved sections are generally smooth, be prepared for some notable hills, particularly on the longer road cycling portions of the loop around Lake Winnisquam.
This route stands out for its blend of dedicated multi-use trail and scenic road cycling, offering a comprehensive tour of the Lake Winnisquam area. The Lake Winnisquam Scenic Trail itself is a notable paved rail trail, connecting to the WOW Trail and providing a glimpse into the region's history as it follows old rail beds. The full loop around Lake Winnisquam, which makes up the bulk of this 22.9-mile (36.8 km) journey, is known for its quiet rural beauty and sections of freshly paved roads, providing a less crowded alternative to some of the more urbanized trails.
2
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Distance 747 m
Uphill 0 m
Downhill 10 m
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the approximate length and surface of the Lake Winnisquam Scenic Trail?
The Lake Winnisquam Scenic Trail is approximately 1.8 to 2 miles long. It is a fully paved rail-trail, making it suitable for walking, biking, rollerblading, and running.
Are there any specific hilly sections or elevation changes on the trail?
While generally considered flat, the trail does feature some hilly sections. However, its paved surface and rail-trail nature mean that significant elevation changes are minimal, making it accessible for most users.
What kind of views and natural features can I expect along the trail?
The trail offers stunning lakeside views of Lake Winnisquam, with sections winding along the shoreline. It also passes through serene woodlands, providing ample shade. You might catch glimpses of active railroad tracks and various wildlife.
Is the Lake Winnisquam Scenic Trail suitable for winter hiking or activities?
Yes, the Lake Winnisquam Scenic Trail is suitable for year-round enjoyment. While the intro mentions spring, summer, and autumn, its paved surface can also make it a viable option for winter walking or snowshoeing, depending on snow accumulation and maintenance.
How crowded does the Lake Winnisquam Scenic Trail get, especially on weekends?
The trail is a popular spot, particularly during pleasant weather. While it offers a more laid-back experience compared to busier areas like Lake Winnipesaukee, it can still see a good number of visitors, especially on weekends and holidays. Arriving earlier in the day is often recommended for a quieter experience.
Are dogs allowed on the Lake Winnisquam Scenic Trail, and are there any specific rules?
Yes, the Lake Winnisquam Scenic Trail is dog-friendly. Visitors are generally expected to keep their dogs on a leash and to clean up after them to maintain the trail's cleanliness and ensure a pleasant experience for all users.
What amenities are available at the trailheads or along the trail?
The eastern trailhead near Leslie E. Roberts Beach and Recreation area offers picnic tables, a playground, and restrooms. Additionally, there is a picnic pavilion approximately 0.7 miles from Osborne's Agway, providing a convenient spot for a break.
Are there any cafes, pubs, or accommodation options near the Lake Winnisquam Scenic Trail?
The trail is located in Belmont, New Hampshire, just outside of Laconia. You'll find various cafes, restaurants, pubs, and accommodation options in the nearby communities of Laconia, Tilton, and Meredith, which are a short drive away.
Does the Lake Winnisquam Scenic Trail connect to other trails for longer excursions?
Yes, the Lake Winnisquam Scenic Trail connects to the southern trailhead of the 2.7-mile WOW Trail. This connection allows for longer excursions and offers varied scenery for those looking to extend their adventure beyond the Winni Trail itself.
What is the history of the Lake Winnisquam Scenic Trail?
The Lake Winnisquam Scenic Trail, also known as the "Winni Trail," opened in 2016. It utilizes a portion of an old rail bed that was originally part of the Boston, Concord & Montreal Railroad, and later the Boston & Maine Railroad. There are also future plans to extend the trail further south.
Is the trail suitable for families with young children or strollers?
Absolutely! The trail's fully paved surface and generally flat terrain make it ideal for families with young children, strollers, and even rollerblades. The presence of a playground and picnic facilities at the eastern trailhead further enhances its family-friendly appeal.