Lincoln is a charismatic town nestled in New Hampshire’s White Mountains and anchored by a historic downtown district with antique stores, ice-cream parlours and cosy cafes. Venture out of town to hike in forested state parks, zip-line over rugged peaks and find hidden waterfalls.
Things to do in Lincoln
Franconia Notch State Park puts you in the heart of White Mountain National Forest. A wooden boardwalk winds down to Flume Gorge, a 243-metre-deep granite gulley at the foot of Mount Liberty. At the bottom is a lush wonderland brimming with flowers, ferns and emerald moss.
East of Lincoln, Loon Mountain treats skiers to three peaks, 61 trails and an impressive 640-metre vertical drop. In summer you can soar over the Pemigewasset River on a zip-line or sail up to the summit on a scenic gondola ride.
Kids will love Clark’s Trading Post, a family-friendly theme park famous for its black bear shows. You can check out vintage memorabilia in the Americana museum and take a steam-powered journey on the White Mountain Central Railroad. Don’t miss the Anaconda Escape water raft ride and the mesmerising Yandong Chinese Trio circus act.
In downtown Lincoln, most of the action is centred along Main Street, a bustling strip lined with New England-style clapboard houses. Today they house shops, cafes and restaurants. For delicious eats and fantastic coffee, head to the White Mountain Bagel Company, where you can pick up spicy tuna melts and corned beef paninis.
Getting around Lincoln
The easiest way to get around Lincoln is on foot, especially along the Main Street strip. Rental cars are the best way to explore the White Mountains. You can drive to either Portland or Boston in roughly two hours.