Backpackers seeking a Wilderness or backcountry experience should consult one of the many trail guides available, and should be familiar with the Forest's Backcountry Camping Rules.
When camping in the backcountry - camping and fires are prohibited:
Within 200 feet of trails and water bodies.
Within 1/4 mile of backcountry facilities (shelters, huts).
In the alpine zone - where trees are 8 feet or less.
Backpackers seeking a Wilderness or backcountry experience should consult one of the many trail guides available, and should be familiar with the Forest's Backcountry Camping Rules.
When camping in the backcountry - camping and fires are prohibited:
Within 200 feet of trails and water bodies.
Within 1/4 mile of backcountry facilities (shelters, huts).
In the alpine zone - where trees are 8 feet or less.
Forest Protection Area (FPA) are potentially overused or fragile areas of the Forest where use restrictions are applied. Restrictions may include limits on camping use, use of wood or charcoal fires, and limits on party size.
Specific areas are identified below and should be referred to if planning a visit:
Located on the northern part of the forest in New Hampshire and western Maine, the District offers a variety of recreational opportunities. Challenge yourself in the Presidential Range including Tuckerman Ravine or the Great Gulf Wilderness; enjoy the beauty of the area at places like Glen Ellis Falls; get away from it all along Scenic Route 113 or in the Wild River and Caribou-Speckled Wildernesses. Recreational opportunities abound: hiking, camping, hiking, biking, fishing, skiing (alpine, cross country, and backcountry), snowmobiling, snowshoeing and much more.
Located on the western portion of the Forest, the District offers a variety of recreational opportunities. Bisected by Interstate 93, you can jump off at exit 28 and escape up to Waterville Valley or push on a little further to exit 32 and relish the day traveling through the mountains on the Kancamagus Scenic Byway; challenge yourself at the world renowned Rumney Rocks Rock Climbing Area; seek renewal in the large and remote Pemigewasset Wilderness; brag about the one that got away at Russell Pond. Recreational opportunities seem limitless: hiking, camping, hiking, biking, fishing, skiing (alpine, cross country, and backcountry), snowmobiling, snowshoeing and much more.
Located on the south eastern part of the forest, the District offers a variety of different recreational opportunities. Journey across the Kancamagus Scenic Byway; experience the famous Mt Chocorua area; find solitude in the Presidential Range-Dry River or Sandwich Wildernesses; or discover the beauty along Scenic Route 113. Recreational opportunities are endless: hiking, camping, hiking, biking, fishing, skiing (alpine, cross country, and backcountry), snowmobiling, snowshoeing and much more.