8/10😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊
68 Echo Lake Road
North Conway, NH 03860
Phone: 603-356-2672
https://www.nhstateparks.org/visit/state-parks/echo-lakes-state-park
Echo Lake overview hike with kids :
First, we hiked Cathedral Ledge and looked down from this vantage point seeing Echo Lake where we eventually got to swim. The hike was extremely steep and moderate-hard in terms of challenging. My kids (3 and 5) asked to be held a lot due to the steepness. The good news is that it wasn’t overly lengthy (0.9 miles) and was mostly shaded on a paved road where cars were not permitted. The view at the top allowed for an overlook of Echo Lake and Mount Washington Valley with dense trees and sloping mountains throughout. It was quite beautiful. We saw several families with kids of all ages and numerous leashed dogs. Everyone was motivating and upbeat rooting us on as we hiked upward and they journeyed down.
Echo Lake in the water :
Once we got to the lake itself, the grounds were very well-kept. There were numerous shaded and sunny picnic tables, bathrooms and a closed concession stand that looks like it sold mostly ice cream. Many families had rafts in the water such a giant ducks and large round tubes. There were people fishing, grilling and kayaking as well. During COVID, the park was allowing limited people to enter. Reservations and payments had to be made on-line prior to showing up. I reserved about a week out and was surprised to see they were full on all but 1 day of my 3 day vacation during late August. I didn’t mind paying ahead despite the fact that the weather was unknown because, for 6 adults and 2 kids it was $17 and would be go fun on a nice day. That it was! I was not disappointed and I know your family won’t be either! This place was truly magical. My kids loved being in the green lake with the enormous mountain backdrop.
The Skinny:
- Weather : This is an outdoor location so I recommend a good dry day.
- Parking and Admissions : When we visited reservations were required through their website and payment based on age; $4 for adults and $2 for kids 6-11, under 5 years of age and over 65 being a NH resident is FREE admission.
- Location : Nature park with a lake and hiking trails throughout where you can fish, kayak, hike, picnic.
- Hours : 9am -6pm
- Duration : We spent 4-4.5 hours here. We could have spent more time but there was thunder in the background and the sky was starting to grey up with big clouds. This was the last day of our vacation and we had a 3.5 hour drive home so we called it quits sadly.
- Tips and Recommendations : Bring good sneakers, bug spray water and a snack. You can also pack a lunch or take food to grill. We stopped at Bart’s Deli which is a hole in the wall corner store / grocery store with really great fresh to order sandwiches. We also brought snacks and fresh fruits. I would have rated this higher if the hike weren’t so steep but I think it’s still great for families. Be prepared to assist young kids and take frequent breaks to rest.
Jewel Approved 👍🏼
Jamison Approved 👍🏼
When visiting Echo Lake, you should also check out Diana’s Baths, Attitash Mountain and Story Land as they are all minutes away and so much fun.
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