“Top 5 Tourist Mistakes in New Hampshire (What NOT to Do!)”

Transcript

00:00Planning a trip to New Hampshire? Don't make these mistakes. They'll ruin your mountain or lake

00:05adventure. Hey adventurers, I'm your travel expert with boots on the ground. Today, we're unlocking

00:12the secrets of New Hampshire by breaking down the top five tourist mistakes and showing you how to

00:17explore this incredible state like a pro. Whether you're chasing mountain vistas or lakeside serenity,

00:23let's make sure your journey is unforgettable for all the right reasons. Mistake number one,

00:28only visiting in summer. Sure, the warm months draw the biggest crowds and for good reason. The trails

00:35are lush, the lakes are sparkling, and every small town is alive with festivals. But if you're only

00:42looking at New Hampshire as a summer spot, you're missing its most magical moments. Fall turns the

00:48White Mountains into a masterpiece of vibrant reds, oranges, and golds, with peak foliage typically

00:55arriving in early October. Want fewer crowds and crisp, perfect hiking conditions? Aim for late

01:02September, when the leaves are just changing and the trails are still open but pleasantly quiet.

01:08And let's not forget winter, from snowshoeing with views of frosted peaks to cozying up in a cabin

01:14after a day on the slopes. The cold season here is pure New England charm. Mistake number two,

01:20underestimating the drives. Those towns and attractions you see dotting the map might look

01:27just a short hop away. But don't be fooled. The mountain roads are winding, speed limits are often

01:33slow for safety, and sudden weather changes can easily delay travel. This isn't a place to rush from

01:39stop to stop. Always plan a buffer between your activities and try not to cram too much into a single

01:46day. If you're driving through the White Mountains, don't miss the Concomagus Highway. It's legendary

01:52for its scenic beauty, especially when the forests are ablaze with color. Roll down your windows, take

01:59your time, and soak in those dramatic vistas. Mistake number three, skipping trail prep. Hiking in New

02:05Hampshire isn't like a stroll in the park. From Mount Washington to the Franconia Ridge, the weather can

02:11turn on a dime, and the terrain can be rugged and unforgiving. Too many visitors head up unprepared,

02:18in sneakers, without supplies, or starting too late in the day. That's a recipe for danger, not

02:24adventure. Always bring layers, even in the summer. Temperatures drop quickly as you climb, or after

02:31sundown. Check trail conditions ahead of time on all trails, or the Appalachian Mountain Club website,

02:37and pack water, snacks, a map, and a fully charged phone. Most importantly, start your hike early. That

02:45way, you're never racing the sun to make it back safely. Mistake number four, booking too late in the

02:51fall. If you're dreaming of leaf peeping in places like North Conway or Lincoln, don't assume you can

02:57wing it at the last minute. Accommodations book up fast, sometimes months in advance, and the best spots

03:04fill first. To score your ideal inn or cozy cabin, start looking at least two months out, especially

03:11for peak weekends in September and October. Waiting too long means settling for options far from your

03:17favorite trails, or paying way more than you'd hoped. Mistake number five, missing the lakes region.

03:24New Hampshire's mountains are iconic, but its lakes are equally breathtaking, and often less crowded.

03:30Lake Winnipesaukee, in particular, is a summertime wonderland, with charming villages, sandy beaches,

03:37and countless islands to explore. If you go midweek, you'll dodge the heaviest crowds and discover a

03:43peaceful side to the area. Don't just stick to the shore. Take a classic lake cruise for views you can't get

03:50from land, or rent a kayak and glide through crystal clear waters surrounded by forested hills. From epic

03:56hikes to tranquil lakes, New Hampshire offers adventure and beauty in every season, but only if

04:02you sidestep these common tourist traps. Travel smart, plan ahead, and you'll experience the granite

04:08state the way it deserves to be seen. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and let us know in the comments

04:15where your New Hampshire adventure will take you next.