Take a tour to New Hampshire's northern most region, the Great North Woods. This tour begins in the town of Shelburne, then continues north to Berlin and Errol. The tour tops the day by traveling west to Dixville Notch and Colebrook and then down to Lancaster.
Start your tour by taking Route 2 west from Maine over through the Shelburne Birches of New Hampshire. The ivory white trunks of these trees line the road so that it appears like a winter wonderland all year round. Continue west to Gorham where you will pick up Route 16 north, which is also known as Moose Alley. At certain times of the day, it is almost guaranteed that you will see one of these massive mammals grazing on the edge of the road.
On your way north, make sure you make time to stop in Berlin at the Northern Forest Heritage Park. Located in the Great North Woods and the heart of the White Mountain National Forest, the Northern Forest Heritage Park Trust which preserves, interprets and promotes the story of the working forest and the multi-cultural heritage of the region. Established in 1994 by a regional board of trustees, the Trust hosts forest, river and art exhibits, lectures seminars, concerts, ethnic festivals, Summer Heritage Mill Tours, lumberjack competitions, and special blacksmith demonstrations and events. Self-guided walking and driving tours are also available.
Next continue north to Errol, where you will pick up Route 26 west, which leads you to Dixville Notch. Have lunch at the historic hotel, The BALSAMS Grand Resort. This full-service hotel is above all else sitting on 15,000 acres, high in the White Mountains deep in the Great North Woods. Enjoy a fabulous five-course meal prepared by some of the finest chefs in the world. While there view their beautifully landscaped grounds including a 27-hole golf course. This property is also a great place for cross country skiing, fishing and hiking.
After eating a fantastic meal continue west on route 26 to Colebrook. In Colebrook visit the Shrine of Our Lady of Grace. This place of prayer is located between New Hampshire's majestic White Mountains and Vermont's' glorious Green Mountains, and is adorned with 50 marble and granite monuments. Masses are preformed daily and when groups are present view the Stations of the Cross at 1:30 p.m.
End your day by traveling south on Route 3 to Route 2 east in Lancaster and visit Christies' Maple Farm and Museum in the shadows of the White Mountains. Learn how they make their famous New Hampshire maple syrup while enjoying free samples at their popular Taste Testing Bar. Have an afternoon snack at their scenic picnic area where you can catch some of New England's most spectacular views. Before leaving don't forget to visit their authentic sugarhouse and gift shop.
