It’s hot in Concord, but you don’t need to go far for a swim
New England weather can be tricky and we are all familiar with summer’s hot temperatures and the humidity that can take over the air. Turning on the AC is always a solution and an ice cream at Granite State Candy Shop might help, but there are days when you need to dive into the water.
Concord is 50 miles away from the ocean, but that doesn’t mean you have to drive all the way to the seacoast for a swim. Around the city, there are ponds and river beaches to enjoy. They’re not staffed, and you need to be aware of the river’s current.
But taking due precaution, here’s some of the swimming holes that you can go to and get refreshed!
Riverland
Around 10 minutes drive from the city center, this is a river beach you can reach after walking a short trail. Next on to the Hannah Duston Historic Site, the sand here is a bit rocky but there’s plenty of space for a towel.
Boat Rentals
The Contoocook River Canoe Company offer sales, rentals, instruction and guided tours of canoes, kayaks and stand up paddleboards.
At Sewall’s Falls you can fish or dive at some off the beaten path beaches. The Sewall’s Falls Recreation Area, a 136 acre space, has trails with access to the Merrimack River. You can take a trail from the boat launch area towards the parkMerrimack shore and find corners with calm waters. This is also a good chance to explore the Wildlife Heritage Trail and relax at the Park.
Part of the Hopkinton-Everett Lakes Reservoir, Elm Brook is maintained by the US Army Corps. There’s a 5$ fee for every car coming in, but once you’re in the park you can take a swim in the Hopkinton Lake and have a nice picnic. There are tables, grills, and a playground for the kids. And a basketball court, baseball fields, accessible trails and activities like canoeing or kayaking are also available.
With over 10,000 acres, Bear Brook is one of the largest State Parks in NH. It’s a 20 minute drive from Concord and there’s a $4 fee for adults and $2 for children (6-11). The park is a great place to camp, hike, mountain bike... and swim! The beach at the Catamount Pond has a scenic background and you can also rent a boat or go kayaking.
Located in Hillsborough, the Gleason Falls create a swimming hole off the cascades. The Gleason Falls Stone Arch Bridge is also famous for a summer dive and is set in the junction between Gleason Falls Road and Beard Brook Road. There you’ll find ‘the old Beard Brook’ swimming hole, where you can relax in the grass, dive in the Contoocook River and have lunch at the picnic tables.
Concord is 50 miles away from the ocean, but that doesn’t mean you have to drive all the way to the seacoast for a swim. Around the city, there are ponds and river beaches to enjoy. They’re not staffed, and you need to be aware of the river’s current.
