Monadnock Region

The Monadnock Region is an outdoor recreation area in southwestern New Hampshire centered on Mount Monadnock, which rises above the surrounding landscape and can be seen from many directions. The area encompasses multiple state parks, lakes, and forests connected by an extensive network of trails for different skill levels.

Indigenous peoples inhabited this land for centuries before European settlers arrived in the 18th century and established permanent communities. The region evolved from agricultural roots into a destination for outdoor recreation over the following generations.

Peterborough has long served as a creative hub where artists live and work in residence programs, while nearby Keene offers theater and performance spaces that reflect the region's appreciation for the arts. These places remain central to local identity today.

Plan your visit based on the season, as conditions and available activities change throughout the year with temperature and weather variations. Most facilities and trails remain accessible year-round, though some require different equipment depending on the time of year.

Rhododendron State Park protects a natural grove of wild plants across 16 acres that produces a striking floral display during mid-summer flowering. This botanical feature is not typical for the area and attracts visitors who time their trip to witness the blooms.

Location: New Hampshire

GPS coordinates: 42.94444,-72.24167

Latest update: December 10, 2025 16:20