The Best Hiking in Jackson, NH

Jackson is iconic New England at its best. This charming town is situated smack-dab in the middle of the White Mountains, a region known for its breathtaking natural splendor in the form of towering peaks, rushing waterfalls, and lush forestland. Taking a hike is the best way to truly experience the outdoors, of course. Both seasoned hikers and novices can enjoy the unspoiled beauty of Jackson, provided that you pick the right trail.

Of course, you’ll also need a cozy place at which to kick up your feet after all that activity. And, of all the great hotels near Jackson NH for hiking, The Wentworth Inn is truly ideal. Keep reading for the best hikes in the area for every skill level, plus find out more about why The Wentworth makes for such a great home base, post-hike.  

Short Hikes

If you’d prefer to do an easy hike (just a couple miles or so), you’ve got plenty of excellent options. New Hampshire is home to over 100 waterfalls, so it would be a shame to miss out on seeing one of these gorgeous falls. The obvious choice is Jackson Falls, located just a few minutes from the town center — this scenic spot is perfect for picnicking and swimming. Diana’s Baths and Sabbaday Falls are both under a mile. Aside from these short, pretty falls hikes, if you want to log a few more miles, hike your way along the Lost Pond Trail to the Square Ledge Trail, for spectacular views of Mount Washington (the Northeast’s highest peak). And, topping out at five miles round-trip, Hall’s Ledge is known for its abundance of wildlife.  

Long Jaunts

Intermediate and expert hikers will appreciate the bounty of daylong routes and backpacking trails at their disposal. Mount Washington has several trails up to the top, though Tuckerman Ravine is the most popular; allow at least seven hours for this round-trip hike, and make time for a stop at the Lake of the Clouds. Mount Moosilauke (7.1 miles round-trip) offers incredible panoramic views of the Green Mountains and Adirondacks. And, serious backpackers should plan to tackle the Presidential Traverse, a ridgeline of up to eight 4,000-footers, where you’ll encounter crystal-clear alpine lakes, wildflower-dotted meadows, and almost certainly moose, black bears, deer, or fox (or all of the above). Once you’ve got your hike picked out, it’s time to book your hotels near Jackson NH.

Stay at The Wentworth

As for the best hotels in Jackson NH, The Wentworth Inn is one of those gem-like properties you’ll be talking about for years to come. More than mere Jackson NH lodging, this hotel is the epitome of personalized comfort. Rest your legs by the fireplace in one of the immaculately designed cottages — or, better yet, soak in the oversized whirlpool tub. For an extra-special treat, book a spa suite for access to a spacious (and, crucially, private) outdoor hot tub. If the charming decor and a craft cocktail at the on-site bar Alpine don’t soothe your muscle aches, then a signature spa treatment surely will.