If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, Northwest New Hampshire offers some of the most secluded and peaceful towns I’ve ever had the pleasure of visiting.
Nestled among rolling hills, dense forests, and the majestic White Mountains, these hidden gems provide the perfect backdrop for a tranquil retreat. From historic charm to untouched natural beauty, each town has its own unique allure that beckons those seeking solitude and a connection with nature.
Join me as I count down my top 10 secluded towns in this picturesque region, uncovering the secrets that make each one a haven of serenity.
10. Orford: Historic Town with Secluded Charm
Orford, with a population of around 1,200, is a quaint town that exudes historic charm and tranquility. I love strolling along its streets lined with beautifully preserved 19th-century homes, known as the “Orford Ridge.”
Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking trails, including the Ridge Trail, and fishing in the Connecticut River. While the town doesn’t have major industries, its economy is supported by small local businesses and agriculture.
What makes Orford truly secluded is its expansive natural areas and low population density, offering a peaceful retreat away from crowded tourist spots.
Where is Orford?
Orford is located in Grafton County, along the eastern banks of the Connecticut River, right on the border with Vermont. Its seclusion is enhanced by the surrounding forests and the absence of major highways passing through town.
To get there, I usually take Route 10, which meanders through scenic countryside, making the journey as enjoyable as the destination itself. The town’s remote location and the surrounding natural beauty make Orford a peaceful escape from the fast pace of urban life.
9. Wentworth: Secluded Countryside Living
Wentworth is a small town with a population of just over 900 residents. The town is a haven for those who appreciate the great outdoors, offering activities like hiking on Mount Carr Mountain and exploring the Baker River.
Wentworth doesn’t have significant industries, but local crafts and small-scale farming contribute to its economy. The town’s low housing density and large properties provide a quiet, private lifestyle that I find incredibly refreshing. Its distance from urban centers ensures that Wentworth remains a peaceful enclave.
Where is Wentworth?
Nestled in Grafton County, Wentworth is situated along Route 25, east of Rumney and west of Warren. Its seclusion comes from being surrounded by expansive forests and the White Mountain National Forest to the north.
Getting there involves a scenic drive through rolling hills and dense woodlands, which always makes me feel like I’m leaving the rest of the world behind. The town’s rural setting and natural barriers contribute to its quiet atmosphere.
8. Dorchester: Vast Wilderness and Open Space
Dorchester is a tiny community with a population of around 350 people. The town is a paradise for nature lovers like me, offering vast undeveloped land perfect for hiking, wildlife watching, and simply enjoying the serenity of the wilderness.
There are no major industries here, and the economy relies on small-scale forestry and agriculture. The extensive natural features, including forests and mountains, create a secluded and serene environment that’s hard to find elsewhere.
Where is Dorchester?
Located in Grafton County, Dorchester lies southeast of Lyme and north of Canaan. Its remoteness is accentuated by limited road access and the surrounding wilderness areas.
I often take the less-traveled local roads that wind through the woods to reach this hidden gem. The town’s vast undeveloped land and natural barriers make it one of the most secluded places in Northwest New Hampshire.
7. Piermont: A Quiet Haven by the Connecticut River
Piermont, home to about 800 residents, is a peaceful town nestled along the Connecticut River. I enjoy spending time by the water, kayaking, or picnicking on its banks.
The town has a few small businesses and farms, but no significant industrial activity, which adds to its quiet charm. Large acreages and natural landscapes, far removed from commercial zones and high-density areas, make Piermont a tranquil retreat.
Where is Piermont?
Piermont is situated in Grafton County, directly across the river from Bradford, Vermont. Its location along the river and the surrounding forests enhance its seclusion.
Access is primarily via Route 25 or Route 10, both of which offer scenic drives through rural landscapes. The town’s distance from major highways and urban centers contributes to its quiet, peaceful atmosphere.
6. Warren: Remote Living Near Mount Moosilauke
Warren boasts a population of approximately 900 people and offers remote living at the doorstep of Mount Moosilauke. I find the hiking here exceptional, with trails leading into the White Mountain National Forest.
The town lacks major industries, with local businesses catering to outdoor enthusiasts and residents. Bordered by national forest land, Warren provides ample privacy and minimal development, making it a secluded haven for nature lovers.
Where is Warren?
Located in Grafton County, Warren lies along Route 25, nestled between Wentworth and Piermont. Its seclusion is due in part to the extensive forested areas and mountains that surround it.
I usually access Warren via Route 25, enjoying the views of the mountains as I approach. The town’s remote location and natural barriers ensure a peaceful environment away from bustling cities.
5. Ellsworth: Hidden Away in Grafton County
Ellsworth is one of the least populated towns in New Hampshire, with just around 90 residents. Despite its small size, the town offers vast open spaces ideal for hiking, wildlife observation, and simply enjoying solitude.
There are no significant industries, preserving its untouched landscape. Natural barriers like mountains and forests offer a quiet retreat away from urban life, which I find incredibly appealing when I need to disconnect.
Where is Ellsworth?
Ellsworth is tucked away in Grafton County, south of Thornton and west of Campton. Its hidden nature is enhanced by limited road access and the surrounding White Mountain National Forest.
Getting there often involves winding through back roads, which adds to the sense of adventure. The town’s isolation makes it a perfect spot for those seeking peace and solitude.
4. Easton: Seclusion in the Heart of the Mountains
Easton, with a population of about 250, is enveloped by the stunning beauty of the White Mountains. I love hiking in the nearby Kinsman Range and exploring the serene forest trails.
Easton doesn’t have major industries, maintaining its quiet, residential character. Significant forested areas and the surrounding mountains ensure privacy and a deep connection with nature that I cherish every time I visit.
Where is Easton?
Situated in Grafton County, Easton lies southwest of Franconia and north of Woodstock. Its seclusion is due to its location within the mountainous region, away from major transportation routes.
I typically reach Easton via Route 116, which provides breathtaking views of the mountains. The town’s remote setting amid natural beauty makes it a haven for solitude seekers like me.
3. Lyman: Peaceful Living Amongst Nature
Lyman is home to around 550 residents and offers peaceful living amidst rolling hills and forests. Activities here include hiking, fishing in Ogontz Lake, and simply soaking in the tranquility.
The town’s economy is based on agriculture and small businesses. With large lot sizes and over 50% undeveloped land, Lyman provides a peaceful, low-traffic environment that feels like a world away from the hustle and bustle.
Where is Lyman?
Located in Grafton County, north of Lisbon and west of Littleton, Lyman’s seclusion is enhanced by its remote location and lack of major highways. Accessing the town involves scenic drives through rural landscapes, which I find incredibly calming.
The natural barriers and expansive open spaces contribute to its serene and private atmosphere.
2. Landaff: Rural Serenity Off the Beaten Path
Landaff has a population of about 450 and is a quiet rural community surrounded by rolling hills and dense forests. I enjoy the simple pleasures here, like visiting local farms and exploring country roads.
There are no significant industries, keeping the town’s environment peaceful and unspoiled. Its location miles away from urban centers and major roads ensures that Landaff remains a secluded spot perfect for relaxation.
Where is Landaff?
Situated in Grafton County, Landaff lies east of Bath and west of Lisbon. Its off-the-beaten-path location, without major highways nearby, enhances its tranquility. I usually reach Landaff via smaller county roads, which adds to the sense of escape.
The town’s rural setting and natural surroundings make it an ideal spot for those seeking solitude.
1. Benton: Hidden Gem Amid the White Mountains
Benton is a hidden gem with a population of just over 360 residents. Nestled in the White Mountains, it’s an ideal spot for hiking, especially on the Appalachian Trail that passes through town.
There are no major industries, preserving its pristine natural environment. Benton’s low population density and expansive natural barriers offer ultimate privacy, making it one of the most secluded places I’ve ever explored.
Where is Benton?
Located in Grafton County, Benton lies west of Woodstock and south of North Woodstock. Its seclusion is amplified by the surrounding White Mountain National Forest and the absence of major roadways.
Accessing Benton often involves winding through mountain roads, which I find both exciting and calming. The town’s remote location amidst the mountains provides a perfect getaway for those looking to immerse themselves in nature.
