4 Secret Gems of New Hampshire's White Mountains

New Hampshire's White Mountains draw in thousands of visitors each year to their famous attractions. Growing up, I had a lake house in New Hampshire, and would go there almost every weekend. This allowed me to find hidden treasures that tourists may not know about. I've compiled this guide to four spectacular spots that many tourists miss completely. These hidden gem destinations deliver unforgettable moments without the crowds.

1. Diana's Baths

Diana's Baths offers a refreshing escape on hot summer days. This is a spot my mom would take us at least 5 times every summer. Diana’s Baths is a series of cascading pools and small waterfalls along Lucy Brook that have been carving its path through granite for thousands of years, creating natural swimming holes.

What makes Diana's Baths special is how the water has sculpted these rocks creating the perfect swimming pools. These pools are perfect for swimming, cooling off, and splashing around.

Insider tip: Visit early in the morning or on weekdays to get the perfect spot for yourself and your family. Pack a picnic lunch and find your own private boulder to enjoy the beautiful scenery.

2. Cathedral Ledge

Located near North Conway's popular outlet shopping, this 700-foot granite cliff offers one of the most beautiful panoramic views in the White Mountains region.

If you enjoy hiking, you can hike up one of the several trails, and if hiking isn't your thing, you can drive the auto road to the top. When you reach the top, you'll enjoy views of the Saco River Valley, Mount Washington, North Conway, and more.

A cool fact is that the cliff is also a premier rock climbing destination—if you're lucky, you might spot climbers descending down the cliff.

Insider tip: Visit at sunset and you'll see golden hues and the mountains turn purple in the distance.

3. Sabbaday Falls

Located along the Kancamagus Highway in Waterville Valley, Sabbaday Falls is easily accessible yet somehow remains overlooked by many travelers rushing to more famous destinations.

A short 0.3-mile trail walk leads to a three-tiered waterfall. What makes Sabbaday truly special is the pothole formation. There is a perfectly circular pool carved by swirling rocks and water over centuries. The falls drop into this natural pool before continuing downstream.

Wooden walkways and stairs among the paths allow visitors to view the falls from different angles, making this an easy stop for families or those with limited hiking abilities.

Insider tip: Visit after rainfall when the water volume increases dramatically. This will enhance the visual experience of the falls.

4. The Gold Room

Now, this is a completely different kind of hidden gem. Head to the historic Omni Mount Washington Hotel in Bretton Woods. This hotel, built in 1902, holds a delightful speakeasy-style bar concealed behind a moving bookcase.

The Gold Room operates as an intimate cocktail lounge with vintage ambiance and creative drinks. The best part is simply finding the entrance. You’ll need to locate the right bookshelf and know the secret of how to open it.

Insider tip: Reservations are recommended for The Gold Room, especially during peak seasons. Ask about their signature cocktail that incorporates local New Hampshire ingredients.

These four hidden gems showcase the abundance of experiences available in New Hampshire's White Mountains region. From natural wonders to historical secrets, you can never be bored. Pack your sense of adventure and prepare to be amazed by the beautiful state of New Hampshire.

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Girls Go South is a podcast created by friends who relocated to North Carolina for college, sharing our journey of discovering Southern culture, food, fashion, and adventures!