If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, Eastern New Hampshire has some of the most secluded towns I’ve ever come across. Tucked away amidst rolling hills, serene lakes, and dense forests, these hidden gems offer the perfect retreat for anyone seeking peace and tranquility.
From historic grants steeped in tradition to tiny townships surrounded by untouched wilderness, each locale provides a unique blend of natural beauty and seclusion. Join me as I count down ten of my favorite secluded towns in Eastern New Hampshire, each offering a haven for those yearning to get away from it all.
10. Brookfield: Serenity Among the Hills
Brookfield, with a population of around 700, is a tranquil town nestled among Eastern New Hampshire’s rolling hills. I love how the town offers a peaceful rural lifestyle, with activities like hiking, bird watching, and exploring local trails that immerse you in nature.
There aren’t many commercial industries here; instead, you’ll find small farms and local artisans contributing to a close-knit community. What makes Brookfield truly secluded is its large acreages and spacious properties that provide residents with ample privacy.
The town’s commitment to preserving its natural landscapes means minimal development, adding to its serene atmosphere. For me, Brookfield is the epitome of serenity, offering a quiet retreat away from the crowded tourist spots.
Where is Brookfield?
Located in Carroll County, Brookfield sits just east of Lake Winnipesaukee, yet it remains off the beaten path. Its seclusion comes from its rural setting, surrounded by forests and lacking major highways or thoroughfares.
To get there, you can take Route 109, which winds through scenic countryside and quaint New England villages. This remote location, coupled with limited accessibility, ensures that Brookfield remains a peaceful haven untouched by the hustle of city life.
9. Freedom: Peaceful Rural Landscapes
Freedom is a charming town of about 1,500 residents that offers expansive rural landscapes and a slow-paced lifestyle.
I enjoy visiting Freedom for its outdoor activities like kayaking on Ossipee Lake, hiking in the nearby mountains, and exploring local farms that dot the countryside. The main industries here are small-scale agriculture and tourism, focused on the natural beauty of the area.
Freedom’s seclusion is enhanced by its spacious properties and natural barriers like forests and lakes, which provide a buffer from surrounding towns. The absence of large commercial developments keeps the town quiet and preserves its pristine environment.
Where is Freedom?
Situated in Carroll County, just south of the White Mountain National Forest, Freedom is nestled between lakes and hills that contribute to its secluded feel. The town is off major highways, with the closest access being Route 25 and smaller local roads.
Getting to Freedom involves a scenic drive through rural New Hampshire, which I find adds to its charm. Its location away from urban centers and surrounded by natural landscapes makes it an ideal spot for those seeking a peaceful escape.
8. Eaton: Lakeside Solitude
Eaton, home to approximately 400 people, is a tiny town known for its picturesque Crystal Lake and charming rural character.
I love spending time here paddling on the lake, hiking local trails, and visiting the historic Little White Church—a popular spot for photographers. There are few industries besides small businesses catering to locals and visitors seeking a quiet getaway.
What makes Eaton secluded are the large lot sizes and the absence of commercial development, allowing residents and guests to enjoy uninterrupted views of the lake and surrounding forests. This lakeside solitude provides a peaceful environment that’s hard to find elsewhere.
Where is Eaton?
Located in Carroll County, Eaton lies southeast of Conway, accessible via Route 153. The town’s seclusion stems from its limited accessibility and the natural barrier of the surrounding woods and hills.
I find that the drive to Eaton takes you through scenic byways, further enhancing its off-the-beaten-path appeal. Its remote location near the Maine border means fewer tourists pass through, keeping Eaton a quiet and serene destination.
7. Atkinson and Gilmanton Academy Grant: Historic Seclusion
With a population that fluctuates around a dozen residents, Atkinson and Gilmanton Academy Grant is one of New Hampshire’s most secluded areas. The region is steeped in history, originally granted for educational purposes in the 19th century, and now offers expansive wilderness perfect for outdoor enthusiasts like me.
There are no significant industries here, which preserves its untouched landscapes and historic charm. The seclusion is evident with vast stretches of forested land and limited access, providing a quiet environment removed from modern distractions.
Where is Atkinson and Gilmanton Academy Grant?
Located in Coös County, this grant area lies within the White Mountain National Forest. Its seclusion is amplified by natural barriers—mountainous terrain and dense forests—that make accessibility challenging.
To get there, you’d typically travel via Route 16 and venture onto smaller forest roads, which I find adds to the sense of adventure. The remoteness ensures a peaceful setting, ideal for those seeking a deep connection with nature and history.
6. Success: Off the Beaten Path
Success is an unincorporated area with a population of fewer than 10 people, offering unrivaled privacy amidst dense forests and mountainous landscapes. I’ve discovered that it’s a haven for hiking, snowmobiling, and wildlife observation, given its vast natural surroundings.
There are virtually no industries or businesses, which maintains its untouched wilderness appeal. The area’s minimal inhabitants and lack of development make Success one of the most secluded spots in the state.
Where is Success?
Success is situated in Coös County, east of Berlin and near the Maine border. Its off-the-beaten-path location is accentuated by the rugged terrain and absence of major roads.
Access typically involves driving on Success Pond Road, a gravel road that cuts through the wilderness—I always make sure my vehicle is prepared for the journey. The remoteness and challenging accessibility contribute significantly to its seclusion and tranquil environment.
5. Pinkham’s Grant: A Refuge in the Mountains
Pinkham’s Grant is an unincorporated area with a handful of residents, located amidst the stunning White Mountains. I appreciate its natural beauty, with Mount Washington and the Appalachian Trail nearby, offering endless opportunities for hiking and exploring.
There are no major industries, allowing the area to maintain its pristine condition. The vast undeveloped land and lack of amenities make Pinkham’s Grant a perfect refuge for those seeking peace and connection with nature.
Where is Pinkham’s Grant?
Found in Coös County, Pinkham’s Grant lies along Route 16 between Jackson and Gorham. Its seclusion is due in part to the surrounding White Mountain National Forest and the area’s rugged terrain.
Getting there involves driving through mountainous roads that can be challenging in winter months—I always check the weather before heading out. The isolation provided by the natural landscape makes it a tranquil escape from the more populated tourist areas.
4. Hart’s Location: A Secluded Valley Haven
Hart’s Location, with a population of about 40, is nestled in a narrow valley within the White Mountains. The town offers breathtaking views, and I’ve enjoyed hiking the numerous trails, including parts of the Appalachian Trail that pass through the area.
There are few industries other than small-scale tourism, focusing on outdoor recreation. The seclusion comes from its unique positioning away from urban centers and the lack of commercial zones, providing a tranquil environment that feels worlds away from the everyday hustle.
Where is Hart’s Location?
Located in Carroll County, Hart’s Location is accessible via Route 302, which winds through Crawford Notch. The town’s secluded nature is enhanced by the surrounding mountains and forests that act as natural barriers.
Traveling there involves navigating scenic but narrow roads—I find that the journey itself is part of the allure. The limited access and remote setting ensure that Hart’s Location remains a peaceful haven for residents and visitors alike.
3. Bean’s Purchase: Wilderness and Isolation
Bean’s Purchase is an unincorporated township with no permanent residents, offering untouched landscapes and a true sense of isolation. The area is ideal for adventurers like me who enjoy backcountry hiking and camping in the wilderness.
With minimal development and no industries, Bean’s Purchase remains one of the most pristine areas in New Hampshire. Natural barriers like mountains and rivers contribute to its seclusion, making it a haven for wildlife and nature enthusiasts.
Where is Bean’s Purchase?
Situated in Coös County, Bean’s Purchase lies within the White Mountain National Forest, west of Mount Washington. Its seclusion is due to the challenging terrain and lack of roads—access is typically on foot via hiking trails.
I always prepare thoroughly before venturing into this area, as the remoteness means services are not readily available. The isolation provided by the natural landscape offers a unique opportunity to experience wilderness in its purest form.
2. Millsfield: New Hampshire’s Least Populated Township
Millsfield boasts a population of around 20 people, making it one of the state’s least populated townships. I’ve found that it’s a paradise for outdoor activities like hunting, fishing, and snowmobiling due to its expansive wilderness.
There are no significant industries, which helps preserve its untouched environment. The low housing density and vast forested areas make Millsfield an ideal retreat for nature lovers seeking solitude and tranquility.
Where is Millsfield?
Located in Coös County, north of Errol, Millsfield is accessible via Route 26. Its seclusion is heightened by the surrounding forests and the lack of nearby towns.
Traveling there involves a drive through remote areas—I always make sure my fuel tank is full before setting out. The township’s isolation, coupled with limited amenities, ensures a quiet environment far removed from the bustle of city life.
1. Chatham: A Hidden Gem in the White Mountains
Chatham, with a population of about 350, is a hidden gem nestled in the eastern White Mountains. I admire its vast forested areas, which offer hiking, wildlife watching, and a chance to truly disconnect from the outside world.
There are no major industries; the town’s economy is modest, focusing on small-scale agriculture and forestry. What makes Chatham so secluded is its sparse population and the natural barriers provided by the mountains and forests, offering residents ultimate privacy and a close connection to nature.
Where is Chatham?
Chatham is situated in Carroll County, along the Maine border. Its location in the White Mountain National Forest contributes to its seclusion, as it’s surrounded by protected lands and lacks major roadways.
To reach Chatham, you’d typically travel on Route 113, which is a scenic byway—I always enjoy the peaceful drive through the countryside. The town’s remoteness and limited access ensure it remains a tranquil haven, perfect for those seeking to escape the demands of modern life.
