Hike-in Required
Yes
Open Year-round
No
ADA accessible
Yes
Guided tours
Yes
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

A visit to the Lakes Region of New Hampshire wouldn’t be complete without a day at the Squam Lakes Natural Science Center. Get up close and observe forest animals, including mountain lions, coyotes, bobcats, foxes, black bear, river otter, and deer along the Live Animal Trail. This easy 0.75-mile trail brings you through a series of educational exhibits, past a pond where turtles frequently bask in the sun, and along a marsh boardwalk, which is great for birdwatching and looking for frogs and salamanders. A small bird museum is the gateway to the raptor exhibit, complete with bald eagles, hawks, turkey vultures, and the great horned owl!

Squam Lakes Natural Science Center also offers additional activities to fill your day with fun. Scenic hiking trails bring you to Upper Pond and to the top of Mount Fayal. A side trip into Kirkwood Gardens is a must-see for gorgeous flowers in the spring and summer. If you're tired of walking, Squam Lake Cruises get you off land and out onto the sparkling water. Choose from a variety of cruise tours to look for loons and bald eagles, enjoy dinner and a sunset, or explore with the whole family. Make reservations early for cruises, and be sure to check the calendar for exciting events happening throughout the season.

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Spring
Summer
Fall

Congestion

Moderate

Parking Pass

Private or commercial fee

Open from

May 01 to November 01

Pros

Great for kids. See live animals. Cruise the lake.

Cons

Can be crowded. Cruises fill quickly.

Pets allowed

Not Allowed

Features

ADA accessible
Family friendly
Guided tours
Picnic tables
Potable water
Amphitheater
Flushing toilets
Covered picnic areas
Wildlife
Big Game Watching
Bird watching
Wildflowers
Playground
Near lake or river
Big vistas

Location

Nearby Lodging + Camping

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