North Conway is the largest village within the larger town of Conway in New Hampshire. This year-round resort area is bordered on the east by the state of Maine, is located southwest of The White Mountain Forest National Park and is near Echo State Park. Although the area is also known for its great outlet shopping, it is also a great habitat for many children's and family activities.
Hiking
Hiking is an inexpensive form of exercise and allows you to take in some nature at the same time. Today more children than ever are taking part in physical activities on a regular basis. The White Mountain Forest National Park offers a beautiful habitat for hiking. Hikes in the park vary in length and difficulty. The Discovery Trail is just under a mile and a half long and is an easy walk. For those who like a slightly more difficult hike, the Glen Boulder Trail is just over a mile and a half hike, and it is a steeper climb that goes above the treeline. The advantage to a hike in this park is the more than 15 trails, allowing an opportunity for hiking no matter the skill level.
Biking
There are many health benefits associated with bicycling, such as improving muscle function. The Mount Washington Valley Bike Path offers you the chance to get out, enjoy natural surroundings and get some valuable physical activity. The Conway Town Trail is a well-marked trail that runs about four miles. Weekly group rides are available during the warmer months.
Canoeing and Kayaking
Canoeing and kayaking both provide a fitness experience that is low impact in addition to being an enjoyable event. In New Hampshire, the summer offers good weather for outdoor sports such as canoeing and kayaking. This type of sport takes place in the White Mountains and the Mt. Washington Valley area. Companies that provide rentals also may offer tube rentals for those who want a carefree day of floating down the river.
Swimming
The benefits of swimming are numerous. This type of exercise works your whole body and gives you a good cardiovascular workout. Echo Lake State Park is a great resource for staying physically active. The park has both swimming and picnic facilities available. In addition, there is a mile-long driving road and hiking trails that lead up to the 700-foot Cathedral Ledge where vistas provide panoramic views of the White Mountains.
Cross Country Skiing
Wintertime is good for outdoor activities. Many families love to cross country ski because it is a chance for some valuable family time together in a peaceful setting. In addition, it is a very good workout, providing plenty of aerobic exercise. Around the Mt. Washington area are six Nordic centers offering miles of maintained cross-country ski trails, backcountry skiing, gentle trails for beginners, ski rentals and ski lessons for the whole family.
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