Tails Lead the Way to New Hampshire’s Lakes Region
- Luie Boone
- 1 day ago
- 13 min read
This travel spot is featured in our fifth blog series, Bowwows Belong.
If you ask Luie Boone, there is no sweeter phrase in New Hampshire than Ice Out. After months of frozen lakes and dramatic winter staring contests with snowbanks, the Lakes Region waits eagerly for the day the ice finally releases its grip.
On Lake Winnipesaukee, Ice Out has been recorded since 1887, and locals take it very seriously. Some track snow levels. Some watch the birds. Some rely on instinct and a strong cup of coffee. There is even friendly betting on the exact date the lake becomes fully navigable again. For the community, Ice Out is not just a weather event. It is a celebration. It means boats, docks, open water, and the official end of serious winter. And for dogs? It means fewer icy paws and more shoreline sniffing.
Taking your dog on vacation to New Hampshire’s Lakes Region feels right the moment you arrive. The pace is slower. The roads are quieter. The air smells like pine, water, and possibility. Instead of crowded attractions, you get scenic overlooks, wooded trails, and dockside sunsets. It is the kind of place where a leash feels less like a rule and more like an invitation to wander.
At the heart of it all is Lake Winnipesaukee, the state’s largest and most iconic lake. With more than 250 islands and miles of shoreline, it is a dream for dogs who love exploring new terrain.
Towns like Wolfeboro, Alton, Gilford, and Laconia are especially welcoming.
Wolfeboro, often called America’s Oldest Summer Resort, is a charming lakeside town on Lake Winnipesaukee with a walkable downtown and scenic waterfront paths. While it may sound like it was named for actual wolves, it is a very welcoming spot for well behaved dogs on leash. It's always best to check individual store and patio policies, but overall Wolfeboro offers a relaxed, dog friendly atmosphere that makes wandering by the water especially enjoyable.
Alton Bay delivers scenic calm with a side of uniquely New Hampshire adventure. In winter, the frozen surface of Lake Winnipesaukee transforms into the ice runway at Alton Bay Seaplane Base, a tradition dating back to the 1960s. This past season, it even set a new landing record, with 42 aircraft touching down in a single day and 774 total landings, surpassing the previous record of 764 set in 2025. It is a cherished, if sometimes unpredictable, winter spectacle, with warm spells in recent years forcing cancellations.
When the ice finally gives way and the lake returns to open water, the energy shifts from propellers to paddleboards and peaceful shoreline strolls. Leashed dogs can enjoy lakeside walks near the docks and bandstand, soaking in harbor views that feel both historic and relaxed. Whether it is planes landing on ice in winter or sunsets reflecting on open water in summer, Alton Bay blends tradition and tranquility in every season.
Gilford provides easy access to trails and quieter stretches of Lake Winnipesaukee’s shoreline, making it a great base for outdoor focused travelers. With nearby hiking options like Mount Major and access to Ellacoya State Park, it offers a mix of mountain views and lakeside scenery. Leashed dogs can join you on many of the area’s trails and enjoy peaceful waterfront walks away from busier resort areas. Gilford’s balance of natural beauty and lower key energy makes it ideal for hoomans and pups who prefer their adventures a little less crowded.
Laconia brings lively waterfront energy balanced by green spaces and access to multiple lakes, including Lake Winnipesaukee, Lake Winnisquam, and Lake Opechee. Known for its bustling summer season and events like Motorcycle Week, the city still offers plenty of room to roam, with parks, paved walking paths, and shoreline views that welcome leashed dogs. Wait, Motorcycle Week? That sounds right up Luie Boone hooman dad's alley! He loves motorcycles. Long before Luie Boone was around, he used to have a Harley. Luie Boone always thought about riding along in a sidecar with his hooman dad, with a helmet and goggles of course.
Areas like Weirs Beach and Opechee Park in Laconia provide space to stretch your legs, while quieter lake edges offer calmer moments for sunset strolls. It is a spot where activity and relaxation meet, making it easy for both hoomans and pups to find their pace.
Just south of Lake Winnipesaukee, Lake Winnisquam offers a slightly quieter but equally scenic Lakes Region experience. As the fourth largest lake in New Hampshire, Winnisquam is known for its calmer waters, wide views, and generally lighter boat traffic, making it especially appealing for dogs who prefer peaceful shoreline walks over busy beaches. Early mornings here feel unhurried, with glassy water and quiet docks perfect for slow leash strolls.
Towns like Sanbornton, Belmont, and Tilton provide convenient access to the lake.
Sanbornton is a quiet Lakes Region town along Lake Winnisquam known for its scenic shoreline and rural charm. Fun fact: it was incorporated in 1770, making it one of the older communities in the region. Things to do here center around the outdoors, including boating and paddling on Winnisquam, hiking Mount Major nearby, exploring local farm stands, and visiting the historic Sanbornton Square for a glimpse of classic New England character.
Belmont sits along the western shore of Lake Winnisquam and offers a relaxed mix of lakeside recreation and small town charm. Originally part of Gilmanton before becoming its own town in 1859, Belmont has roots in New Hampshire’s mill and manufacturing history. Today, visitors can enjoy boating and fishing on Winnisquam, explore trails around Silver Lake, or visit the Belmont Mill. This is a restored textile mill, which has a nearby dog-friendly, walking trail.
Tilton sits at the southern edge of Lake Winnisquam and serves as a convenient gateway to the Lakes Region. Once a thriving 19th century mill town powered by the Winnipesaukee River, it still carries historic character alongside modern conveniences. Visitors can stroll through Tilton Island Park, explore the Tilton Arch, and the surrounding historic district.
The Tilton Arch is a small granite memorial arch located in Tilton’s historic district, built in 1883 by Charles E. Tilton in honor of his father. Modeled after a Roman triumphal arch, it stands as a lasting symbol of the town’s 19th century prosperity and pride.
For a quieter, more nature focused experience, Squam Lake is a Lakes Region favorite. Known for its exceptionally clear water and largely protected shoreline, Squam offers peaceful conservation areas and wooded trails where leashed dogs are welcome. The lake’s calm atmosphere and minimal development make it ideal for travelers seeking scenic drives, quiet paddles, and unhurried shoreline walks.
The nearby towns of Holderness and Ashland have a low-key charm, with access to hiking trails, scenic drives, and local eateries with outdoor seating.
Holderness sits along the northern shore of Squam Lake and is known for its classic New England charm and strong conservation roots. Home to the Squam Lakes Natural Science Center, the town offers walking trails, wildlife exhibits, and access to protected lake waters that feel peaceful and uncrowded. With scenic drives, quiet coves, and nearby hiking routes in the foothills of the White Mountains, Holderness is ideal for hoomans and leashed pups who appreciate nature, calm water, and a slower pace. Unfortunately, dogs are not allowed at the Squam Lake Natural Science Center, but it's a great spot to take kids to learn more about wildlife in the area!
Ashland is a small, welcoming town at the southern tip of Squam Lake, offering easy access to hiking trails, scenic river views, and nearby White Mountain adventures. Its compact downtown and relaxed pace make it a convenient and comfortable stop in the Lakes Region.
A local highlight is The Common Man Ashland, a dog friendly favorite serving classic American fare with flair. Menu standouts include prime rib, homemade baked macaroni and cheese, and their well known crab cakes, voted Best of New Hampshire five years in a row by readers of New Hampshire Magazine. Seasonal outdoor seating makes it easy for hoomans and pups to dine together after a day of exploring.
If pristine water and a less touristy feel are high on your list, Newfound Lake deserves serious consideration. Often recognized as one of the cleanest lakes in New Hampshire, it is framed by mountain views and a quieter, small town atmosphere that feels refreshingly unhurried. The water clarity here is remarkable, making shoreline strolls especially scenic.
Bristol serves as the main hub, offering a friendly local vibe, a walkable downtown, and access to nearby trails and peaceful roads ideal for morning and evening leash walks. Dogs who love to swim will appreciate the calm coves and gentle shoreline areas, as well as the private docks commonly found at lakefront rentals. It is the kind of place where days unfold slowly and naturally, with plenty of space for both hoomans and pups to breathe.
Smaller lakes like Lake Wentworth, Ossipee Lake, and Mirror Lake also offer excellent options for dog-friendly vacations, especially if you prefer fewer crowds. Towns such as Center Harbor, Meredith, and Moultonborough strike a nice balance between amenities and access to nature.
Center Harbor sits along the northern shores of Lake Winnipesaukee and offers classic Lakes Region charm with wide harbor views and a relaxed village feel. Incorporated in 1797, it has long served as a crossroads for travelers exploring the surrounding lakes and mountains.
Meredith is one of the most charming towns in the Lakes Region, set right along the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee and Lake Waukewan. Its walkable downtown features local shops, cafés, and scenic waterfront views that make it ideal for relaxed leash strolls. The town’s boardwalk along Meredith Bay is especially popular for soaking in lake views and catching a colorful sunset.
Mirror Lake is a smaller, quieter lake in the Lakes Region known for its calm waters and reflective mountain views. It offers a peaceful alternative to busier shoreline areas, with less boat traffic and a slower pace overall. The surrounding roads and wooded areas make for relaxed leash walks, and the gentle shoreline is ideal for dogs who enjoy wading without large waves or heavy activity. Mirror Lake lives up to its name at sunrise and sunset, when the water reflects the sky in soft, glassy stillness.
What truly makes the Lakes Region special when traveling with a dog is its unhurried rhythm. Mornings begin slowly with coffee by the water and quiet shoreline walks, and evenings end with tired pups curled up after a full day of fresh air, swimming, and exploring. Whether you are hiking wooded trails, cruising on a pontoon boat, or watching the sunset from a dock, your dog is right by your side.
Paws Rest Here
Luie Boone paw-selected this perfect vacation rental for your stay at New Hampshire’s Lakes Region. Check it out below!
Rental Name: Endless Summer Cottage
This rental has 3 bedrooms with 4 beds and 2 baths.
Photos by breakawayrentalhomes.com
It features the following amenities:
Located on Lake Winnipesaukee
Private, sandy-bottom beach right in front of cottage
Adirondack chairs for enjoying the sun and the views
Dock for boat of up to 20 feet with a 3 foot depth
Gas Grill
Full bathroom and laundry room in garage
Fenced-in yard
What does Luie Boone think of this rental? He woofed:
My hoomans have planned a vacation to Endless Summer Cottage on Lake Winnipesaukee in New Hampshire’s Lakes Region. It's a nostalgic, rustic cottage right on the water sounds like elite level relaxation. The kind of place where naps are deep, breezes are constant, and nobody’s in a rush. I’ve been told there are three bedrooms, including one with a direct lake view, plus a big open living space with a huge picture window. That window is clearly meant for me. I’ll be running full time water surveillance, monitoring birds, boats, and any suspicious floating sticks. There’s even an extra bathroom and laundry area, which I’m assuming exists specifically for sandy paws and post beach zoomie cleanup. The private sandy beach right in front of the cottage is what really has my attention. Sand, water, and room to roam without competition sounds like my personal paradise. There’s also a dock, Adirondack chairs for the hoomans, mountain views, and a quiet rural setting that feels perfect for breeze sniffing and sunset staring. I’ve also heard whispers about wildlife, including a fisher, sometimes called a fisher cat. Apparently it’s a fast, sneaky nocturnal creature that looks like a cat crossed with a weasel. I’ll be staying alert and then dramatically reporting all findings to my brother cat, Tobi, when we get home. Fishers were once hunted to extinction and are now common again in New Hampshire, which makes the area feel just wild enough to be paw-some!
Paws Venture Here
Luie Boone sniffed out and dug up these local gems for you to check out while vacationing in New Hampshire’s Lakes Region!
The Little Yosemite of the East
Often called the Little Yosemite of the East, the Castle in the Clouds Conservation Area delivers one of the most scenic waterfall experiences in New Hampshire. The Turtleback Mountain and Brook Walk Trail Loop winds through forest and alongside rushing water, offering views of five beautiful waterfalls along the way.
Luie Boone believes any trail with multiple waterfalls is clearly overachieving in the best way. The trail is well marked and easy to follow, with much of the route running right beside the brook. That means steady water sounds, cool air, and excellent splash potential for well behaved, leashed pups. Luie Boone’s official review is simple: more waterfalls, more better.
Experience Squam Private Boating Excursions
Experience Squam Private Boating Excursions offers a tail wag worthy way to explore Squam Lake in Holderness. This dog-friendly outing lets you and your pup cruise the lake with a knowledgeable guide who tailors the trip to your boating interests, from scenic shoreline tours to peaceful hidden coves.
Your captain can even stop at a dog-friendly island for a trail walk and swim, giving pups the chance to stretch their legs and cool off. Luie Boone has already appointed himself Captain of the Vessel, stationed proudly at the bow with ears in the wind and eyes on the horizon. He firmly believes every proper boating adventure requires a confident captain and a splash stop. Boating excursions operate seasonally, so plan your voyage accordingly.
Mount Major
Mount Major rises to 1,786 feet and delivers some of the best summit views in southern New Hampshire for the amount of effort required. Multiple pup friendly trails lead to the top, offering round trip options between roughly 3 and 3.9 miles. Along the way, hikers are treated to sweeping views of Lake Winnipesaukee and even glimpses of the White Mountains on clear days. Luie Boone considers any hike with lake views a strong use of energy.
It's important to note that the upper ledges are steep and can become dangerous in wet or icy conditions. Proper footwear, leashes where needed, and cautious paws are essential near exposed areas. Luie Boone believes summits are best enjoyed confidently, not dramatically sliding down them!
Mr. Phippen’s Hut
Mr. Phippen’s Hut is a rewarding destination reached by hiking the Brook and Main Trail, a moderate day hike that’s well suited for all ages and their canine buddy. The route offers a steady climb through the woods, making it a manageable adventure with a satisfying payoff.
At the summit, you’ll find the remnants of Mr. Phippen’s Hut along with open views of the Major Mountain Range. Mr. Phippen’s Hut refers to the stone foundation remains of a small mountaintop cabin built in the early 1900s by George Phippen, a local resident who used it as a private retreat.
It’s an excellent picnic spot with room to rest and refuel before heading back down. The trail is open year round, though spring often brings muddy conditions, so waterproof boots and mud tolerant paws are a smart idea.
Ramblin' Vewe Farm
Ramblin’ Vewe Farm in Gilford is a dog friendly recreation area offering well marked, shaded trails that wind through forest and open space. Parking for the trailhead is available off Boyd Hill Road, making it an easy spot to access for a quick hike or a longer outing.
Leashed dogs, or those reliably under voice control, are welcome to explore the multi use trails alongside their hoomans. Benches are placed along the way for rest breaks, though hikers should stay attentive at the many trail intersections, as it can be easy to take a wrong turn without careful navigation. Luie Boone has made it very clear that while he enjoys adventure, he does not enjoy unexpected bonus mileage.
Cook Homestead
Cook Homestead offers a quiet glimpse into the early days of the Lakes Region. After the Revolutionary War ended in 1783, veterans were granted land by the federal government, and families began settling around Red Hill. Among them was Jonathan Cook, who built his homestead with his wife Eliza in 1788, establishing what would become one of the area’s most recognized historic sites.
Today, a simple footpath leads to the location where wagons once traveled, carrying visitors toward the well known viewpoint above. The peaceful setting invites reflection on how dramatically the landscape has changed over time. Leashed pups are welcome to join the walk, making it a meaningful stop for hoomans and their canine companions who enjoy blending history with fresh air.
Red Hill Fire Tower
Red Hill Fire Tower is a rewarding destination reached by hiking the Red Hill Fire Tower Loop Trail with your pooch. The tower was originally constructed by the State of New Hampshire in 1927 as a replacement for the Mt. Israel Lookout. What began as a 27 foot metal tower with a 10 by 10 wooden cab was raised to 55 feet in 1972, and an observation platform was added so visitors could take in the sweeping views.
Although the state closed the tower in 1981, it didn't stay silent for long. Today, it's staffed by the Town of Moultonborough Fire Department on land owned by the Lakes Region Conservation Trust, making it the only active fire tower in New Hampshire that is not state owned. The hike offers forested paths and a steady climb, ending with panoramic views that feel well earned. Luie Boone believes any trail that ends above the treetops deserves a proud summit pose and a well timed snack break.
Surfside Burger Bar
Surfside Burger Bar in Meredith is a laidback, dog-friendly spot where your pup is welcome to join you on the outdoor patio, weather permitting. Pups receive tableside water service along with their own dog menu!
Hoomans can dig into casual American favorites like juicy burgers, grilled cheese, tacos, and seafood while soaking up the fun tiki bar vibe. Luie Boone believes any restaurant that brings water directly to the table for dogs is very respectable!
Luie Boone's Pet Peeve about
New Hampshire's Lakes Region
There's just so much to love about this vacation destination, but there's one thing that's got Luie Boone's leash in a twist. He woofed:
My hoomans have planned a vacation to New Hampshire’s Lakes Region. I know this because they keep saying things like it’ll be so relaxing and we really need this, which usually means my schedule is about to become theoretical. They already sound calmer. That's encouraging for them. It's suspicious for me. There's been talk of water, docks, and quiet mornings. All acceptable concepts. Then they mentioned the loons. Casually. As if that word does not carry weight. Apparently, there are many loons in the Lakes Region, and you can hear them at night. They said this like it's charming. I've done preliminary research. The sounds aren't casual. They echo across open water in long, hollow calls that feel like coded messages. My concern isn't volume. It's organization. One calls. Another answers. Sometimes several. Spread across a lake. That suggests coordination. Hoomans describe this as peaceful. I describe it as an active nighttime network. They say the loons are beautiful. I'm reserving judgment until I understand their intentions. From my perspective, they're unfamiliar, vocal, and operating during standard canine sleep hours. That makes them my responsibility. I'll attend this vacation. I'll remain brave and professional. But I'll also be listening carefully, because if the loons are announcing something important across the water, someone needs to be on alert. And it might as well be me.
Comments