Hike to West Rattlesnake Mountain, 7/25/2017

Finally, it was a beautiful day for a hike! We drove to nearby Holderness, NH, from Meredith to the West Rattlesnake Trailhead. There are a couple of parking lots on Rte 113 north about four miles from Holderness. We parked in the one on the right, where the trail begins.

The West Rattlesnake Trail is part of the Old Bridle Path and has yellow blazes. Rated as easy/moderate, the trail is an uphill path with a number of steps. There were hikers of all ages on the trail and it is pet-friendly, too. We met this friendly foursome as we began our hike.

Before reaching the summit we hiked on a small spur trail to a rocky outcrop where there were views of the White Mountains and Squam Lake.

The elevation gain is 450' to the summit where there are spectacular, panoramic views of Squam Lake and its many islands from the open outcrops. 

There were lots of people at the summit and we all enjoyed spending some time on the rocky outcrops after our hike up the mountain. A nearby camp for kids had hiked the trail and were enjoying the views. Many of them stopped by to meet Sadie (which she loved!) We spent some time checking out the specks below that were: boats, swim platforms, houses, etc. 

Huge Lake Winnipesaukee can be seen beyond Squam Lake. 

The entire area at the top of West Rattlesnake Mountain is the Armstrong Natural Area. It is named for the original owners who generously donated the land to the University of New Hampshire. It continues to be a place for recreation and education. 

The hike back down the trail was a lot easier and faster than the hike up! Although you need to watch for rocks and roots along the path. This was a really fun hike because the view at the top is so worth the climb!

On our way back to Meredith Woods Campground, we stopped in at the Lake Winnipesaukee waterfront area in Meredith, NH. 

Public docks are available for boaters (3 hour maximum). There are many restaurants nearby and some on the water. And, of course, our sweet doggie, Sadie, had to go for a swim. 

Taking a leisurely stroll through Hesky Park, we really liked the Meredith Sculpture Walk pieces on display here (others can be seen in various locations in Meredith). 

Stephan Lockawich,  Beverly B. Seamans,

"Tiney," the Swamp Buck Harbor Seal

Rite Dee,

Tres Bien

Drew Klotz, Airblade Dale Rogers, Bird in Hand

The New Hampshire POW/MIA State Memorial is also located in the Hesky Park and was dedicated in 2008. 

Some Canadian geese make the park their home in the summer. 

The beautiful weather enabled us to see some of the beautiful lakes and islands in this scenic area of New Hampshire. 

For additional information about Meredith, NH, click on this link: www.meredithnh.org/