Nestled in the heart of New England, the Lake Sunapee region is a picturesque getaway that offers something special in every season. Visiting the Lake Sunapee area in the fall is the perfect time to visit.
Take a scenic drive through the rolling hills to see the magnificent fall foliage, visit a local pumpkin patch, or enjoy seasonal treats like apple donuts. In winter, enjoy cozy horse-drawn sleigh rides, a spa day after a long day of skiing, or a local bookstore.
Spring welcomes warmer days with scenic hikes, and the return of farmers markets. Summer boasts a variety of fun activities like paddleboarding, and enjoying lakeside dining with breathtaking views. No matter the season, Lake Sunapee offers an unforgettable escape.
September
Annual Kearsarge Klassic Bike Randonnee
If you love to bike, you don’t want to miss this all day bike event. The Annual Kearsarge Klassic Bike Randonnee gives bikers a chance to challenge themselves on varying levels of difficulty while enjoying the scenic routes.
The race will begin and end at the New London Historical Society. Get revved up with a homemade breakfast, lunch, and dinner made for all participants.
Apple Picking
Fall in the Lake Sunapee region wouldn’t be complete without apple picking! Head to local orchards like Carter Hill Orchard. It offers a fantastic fall experience with apple picking, cider tastings, and scenic views of the countryside.
The orchard features a wide variety of apples for picking and a charming farm stand where you can buy fresh apples, homemade pies, and other seasonal treats. It’s a great activity for families and a perfect way to enjoy the crisp fall air. For more information, visit: https://www.carterhillapples.com/
Apple Cider Making at the Sunapee Historical Society: Experience a hands-on fall tradition at the Sunapee Historical Society by participating in their Apple Cider Making event. Learn how fresh apple cider was made in the old days, and enjoy the aroma of apples pressing as you watch the process unfold.
This activity offers a great chance to explore history while engaging with the fall harvest and enjoying a taste of freshly made cider. https://sunapeehistoricalsociety.org/
Harvest Moon Festival
Celebrate the fall season with a visit to the Kearsarge Indian Museum in Warner, NH. Their annual Harvest Festival is a family-friendly event that features Native American storytelling, traditional music, arts and crafts, and a variety of fall activities.
Explore the museum’s exhibits, enjoy the beautiful surrounding nature, and learn about the region’s indigenous culture.
A perfect way to experience the rich history and vibrant autumn atmosphere of the Lake Sunapee region. For more details, visit: https://www.indianmuseum.org/calendar/2024/9/29/harvest-moon-festival
October
Sunapee Harbor Autumn Craft Fair: The Sunapee Harbor Autumn Craft Fair brings together local artisans and crafters to showcase their handmade goods. From jewelry and artwork to home décor and seasonal items, you’re sure to find unique treasures to take home.
The fair is held in the scenic Sunapee Harbor area, providing a beautiful backdrop as you enjoy browsing the booths, chatting with the artists, and celebrating the crisp autumn air.
Mount Sunapee Annual Fall Festival Pig Roast and BBQ
If you’re in the Lake Sunapee area this fall, be sure to check out the Annual Fall Festival Pig Roast and BBQ for a perfect blend of comfort food and fun. Enjoy a relaxing hay wagon ride, indulge in delicious BBQ and cornbread, and groove to live music.
For those wanting to take in the stunning fall foliage, the sky rides offer an unbeatable view—ideal for snapping some photos. This event is also packed with family-friendly activities, from a 2-person wheelbarrow race and water balloon toss to a pumpkin carving contest and a donut-on-a-string challenge.
It’s an event filled with entertainment for all ages, so grab your family and friends and join the fun!
Wilmot Scarecrow Festival
Show off your creativity at the Annual Wilmot Scarecrow Festival. Create your own unique scarecrow and display it at your home or at the WCA’s Red Barn in Wilmot (64 Village Road). Scarecrows will be judged by the Wilmot Garden Club. For more details, visit: www.wilmotcommunityassociation.org
Annual Chocolate Fest Challenge
Calling all chocolate lovers! Don’t miss the Annual Chocolate Fest Challenge at Mount Sunapee Resort, where you can indulge in an array of decadent chocolate treats prepared by talented chocolatiers and pastry chefs.
Sample and vote for your favorite chocolate creations, while a panel of judges selects the winners for best chocolate and display. Enjoy a silent auction and scenic chairlift rides, all while listening to live music. It’s the sweetest event of the season—mark your calendar and bring your sweet tooth!
Haunted Hayride
For those who enjoy a good scare, the Lake Sunapee region offers several spooky experiences during the Halloween season. The Haunted Hayride at Mount Sunapee Resort is a local favorite, where you can embark on a haunted ride through the woods. Check out their website for dates and tickets: https://www.skinh.com/resorts/mount-sunapee-resort
Haunted History Tours in Newport, NH: A Haunted History Tour that takes guests through the historic streets of this charming New England town. The walking tour focuses on the eerie past of the town, visiting locations that are known for paranormal activity. The guide shares local legends and ghost stories, making it a fun and spooky experience, especially during the fall season. https://newportnhhistory.org/
Pumpkin Festival at the New London Historical Society: Celebrate the season with the Pumpkin Festival hosted by the New London Historical Society. This family-friendly event features pumpkin carving, a costume contest, live entertainment, and plenty of fall-themed activities for children and adults alike.
Don’t forget to visit the historical exhibits to learn more about the rich history of the area while you enjoy the festivities. https://www.newlondonhistoricalsociety.org/
November
Annual Turkey Trot
Before the snow arrives, gather your family and friends for the Lake Sunapee Turkey Trot 5k (or the 1k Chicken Run). Dress in your most creative costume and race with fellow runners. Afterward, join the award ceremony where prizes will be given for best costume. Register at: SunapeeTurkeyTrot.com.
Unique Fall Experiences
Mount Sunapee Resort Fall Foliage Skyride: Experience breathtaking views of the fall foliage from above with the Fall Foliage Skyride at Mount Sunapee Resort. Take a scenic chairlift ride up the mountain, where you’ll see views of the vibrant colors of the surrounding trees and Lake Sunapee.
It’s an unforgettable way to witness the beauty of autumn from a unique perspective. This activity is perfect for families, photographers, and nature enthusiasts. For more details, visit: https://www.mountsunapee.com/
Fall Foliage Cruises on Lake Sunapee: Get out on the water this fall and experience the colorful foliage from the lake with Lake Sunapee Cruises. Their special fall foliage cruises offer a unique way to see the region’s autumn colors as you enjoy a relaxing boat ride.
The fall tours provide stunning views of the surrounding mountains, forests, and towns, making it the perfect way to unwind and enjoy the season’s beauty. To learn more and book your cruise, visit: https://sunapeecruises.com/
Harvest Moon Night Hike at Mount Sunapee: For those seeking a more adventurous fall experience, the Harvest Moon Night Hike at Mount Sunapee offers a special opportunity to hike under the light of the full moon.
As the moon rises, enjoy a guided hike through the mountain trails, taking in the fall scenery as the sun sets and the night sky emerges. It’s a unique way to experience the beauty of the fall season, especially as the moonlight casts a soft glow on the landscape.