Located in the northeastern corner of the
United States,
New Hampshire is an outdoor enthusiasts dream. Known as the 'Mother of Rivers', the five great streams of
New England originate in its hills, most notably the 410 mile (670km)
Connecticut River, which begins at New Hampshire's Connecticut Lakes and flows south into Connecticut.
Bordered by
Quebec,
Canada, to the north and northwest,
Maine and the
Atlantic Ocean to the east,
Massachusetts to the south and
Vermont to the west, life in New Hampshire is like a permanent vacation, drawing visitors from the surrounding states for a week
at the coast or a memorable mountain trekking experience.
Its highest peak, Mount Washington, which reaches 6,288 feet (1,918m), has claimed many lives over the years with its strong winds and freezing temperatures, some of the worst recorded in the continental United States.
Mount Monadnock in the south, with its bare rock summit, mild weather and 40 miles (65km) of foot trails is a popular alternative and is rated as the second most climbed mountain in the world.
From camping and climbing, to swimming and fishing, the list of possible activities in the 'granite state' is lengthy. Not to be forgotten though, are its captivating cities. Recently named as one of the 'Dozen Distinctive Destinations of 2008' by the
National Trust for Historic Preservation, culturally rich
Portsmouth was celebrated for its striking coastal beauty, historic buildings and lively downtown.