These 5 New England Hidden Gems Provide the Perfect Balance of Adventure and Relaxation
Now that summer is underway, there's no better time to embark on your warm-weather adventures. After a long, cold winter, there's no doubt that many of us are ready to rejuvenate in the sun, and the good news is, this season certainly offers activities for everyone to enjoy! For New Englanders, the list goes on when it comes to drivable summer destinations. While sipping a cold beverage poolside sounds like a slice of heaven to some, others crave adventure, whether it be watersports, hiking, biking, or something completely out of the ordinary.
These five New England destinations are bound to offer up the perfect mix of relaxation, activity, and delicious cuisine, to give everyone a bit of what they’re looking for. And a bonus - they’re certainly not tourist traps, just hidden gems that are awaiting your arrival!
Bar Harbor, Maine
Nothing screams summer like a freshly caught Maine lobster after a beautiful day on the water. And what better place to indulge in world-class seafood than Bar Harbor, Maine? Not only is this town ideal for aquatic attractions, but it’s also located just a few miles from Acadia National Park, making for endless adventure. The historic park is home to some of the most mesmerizing landscapes and wildlife on the Eastern Seaboard, spanning approximately 47,000 acres, with opportunities for high-intensity hikes, leisurely strolls, and various family-friendly activities.
If you’re looking to spend more time in the water, there are endless spots to rent kayaks, hop aboard a sailboat, or catch some fish. Even take an afternoon bike ride through one of the many trails, and who knows, maybe you’ll find yourself enjoying the picturesque sunset amidst the salty ocean air.
The Berkshires, Massachusetts
There’s something magical about spending a hot summer day in The Berkshires. Less than three hours from Boston, this lakeside destination is filled with charming streets for shopping, exquisite golf courses, watersports, and even epic adventures, like ziplining. If you’re feeling a bit daring, give white water rafting a try and experience Massachusetts like you’ve never done before. However, if the idea of taking on rough waters isn’t for you, many raft companies offer family float experiences, where you’ll make your way through calmer, low-risk streams.
The list of possibilities in The Berkshires goes on, with various hiking routes, outdoor concerts, and quite a few outdoor breweries to get a taste of the local tap. What better way to end the day than taking a dip in the lake with your friends and family? Plus, being lakeside means no rough waves like you’d encounter in the ocean, making for the perfect place to give waterskiing a try!
Lake Winnipesaukee, New Hampshire
Lake Winnipesaukee is an absolute dream for wildlife enthusiasts. With various wildlife sanctuaries to visit, you can observe New Hampshire’s iconic bird, the loon, along with eagles, deer, and if you’re lucky, you might even spot a moose munching by the lake. Embark on a hike up the Mount Major Trail, and be sure to admire the view from the top - you won’t regret it! Or, for a less rigorous adventure on foot, walk through the Mount Major State Forest, and let the trail markers guide you along the scenic route.
Let’s not forget about the actual lake itself! Now that you’re aware of the land-side possibilities, we can dive into what Lake Winnipesaukee’s best known for - swimming, wakeboarding, boating, and more. Splash around at Ellacoya State Park, Brewster Beach, or one of the many other public beach fronts. Also, make note that the lake’s commonly known for trout and salmon fishing, so with a bit of patience, you very well might be catching your own dinner.
Burlington, Vermont
It’s no secret that Vermont is home to some of the East Coast’s most elite ski mountains, but that doesn’t mean it’s not booming with activities in the summer. Grab your biking gear and head straight to Burlington, where you can ride through eight miles of lakeside trails, or even explore on foot and see all that nature has to offer. Or, check out Waterfront Park, where you can enjoy a picnic, have a catch, or even just soak up some New England sun.
For the lake lovers, jump aboard a cruise through Lake Champlain, or put on your captain’s hat and enroll in a sailing lesson, making for a lifetime of memories. Better bring your golf clubs along, too, since there are close to twenty courses near Burlington alone. With public and private golf courses, including the iconic Vermont National Country Club, you could spend your entire summer trying out different greens, each having a completely different feel.
Narragansett, Rhode Island
While it might be the country’s smallest state by a landslide, trust us when we say Rhode Island is truly filled with some hidden gems. Narragansett is an undeniably beautiful beach town, and the perfect place to go and escape the fast-paced city life. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful day by the ocean or want to check surfing off your bucket list, Narragansett provides an incredible balance of serenity and adventure.
Plus, the ever-evolving Port of Galilee, which also happens to be one of the largest commercial fishing ports in New England, makes transportation to some of Rhode Island’s other dreamy destinations a no-brainer. Hop on a ferry to Block Island, where you can get a front row seat to an unforgettable whale-watching experience.
Quality Gear to Enhance Your Adventures
Regardless of where you’ll be kicking off your summertime adventures, it’s essential that you have elite gear to keep you and your belongings safe, organized, and hydrated! Kulkea has a variety of products to support you through your endeavors, including backpacks, tool holders, and more.
OTRMost Hydration Backpack
If you’re aiming to stay hydrated while also carrying your personal belongings, the OTRMost Hydration Backpack is just what you need. Plus, this pack has been expertly designed to prioritize comfort, with an adaptive strap system and hiking grade support.
Micro Pack Multi Sport Trail Backpack
The versatility of the Micro Pack Multi Sport Trail Backpack is unmatched, providing essential features you’ll need during a hike, bike ride, or day of exploring. This bag has no shortage of storage space, with expertly designed pockets to keep all of your valuables safe, no matter where the day takes you. Let’s not forget that this cross-sport backpack is water resistant and has a one-of-a-kind moisture control system for gear ventilation. So, whether you’re lakeside or even taking on the white water rapids, keeping your belongings dry won’t be an issue.