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Spend a self-paced day paddling Lake Tarleton with Mt. Moosilauke on the horizon. This five-hour, equipment-inclusive outing combines protected shoreline, quiet coves and an informative route pamphlet — ideal for paddlers with basic skills.
Spend a self-paced day paddling Lake Tarleton with Mt. Moosilauke on the horizon. This five-hour, equipment-inclusive outing combines protected shoreline, quiet coves and an informative route pamphlet — ideal for paddlers with basic skills.
Early light slices across the glassy bowl of Lake Tarleton and the water seems to breathe — small wakes fidget against the shoreline as loons call from hidden coves. Launching from a modest public boat access at the end of a short, unnamed road off NH Rt. 25C in Piermont, you push off with Mt. Moosilauke pinned on the horizon, its ridgeline a steady companion as you move at your own pace.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Ammonoosuc Outings · Piermont, New Hampshire
Early light slices across the glassy bowl of Lake Tarleton and the water seems to breathe — small wakes fidget against the shoreline as loons call from hidden coves. Launching from a modest public boat access at the end of a short, unnamed road off NH Rt. 25C in Piermont, you push off with Mt. Moosilauke pinned on the horizon, its ridgeline a steady companion as you move at your own pace.
The lake is a naturally occurring basin whose level is held by a small dam; public advocacy in the 1990s and 2000s protected much of the surrounding land, now conserved as Lake Tarleton State Park and parcels of the White Mountain National Forest. Geologically the valley is shaped by glacial scouring, with bedrock outcrops and shallow coves that frame the shoreline. The area’s rural culture is quietly woven into nearby farmsteads and seasonal camps — paddlers often trade waves with fishermen in small aluminum boats.
Practicalities are straightforward: this is a self-guided, five-hour outing with equipment, a waterproof dry bag, bottled water, snacks and a pamphlet with suggested routes and points of interest. Expect calm water early and more wind in the afternoon; keep to the protected inlets if you want shelter. The route is family-friendly for those with basic paddling experience but requires moderate fitness for a full circuit. Wear layered synthetics, bring sunscreen and insect repellent, stow gear in the provided dry bag, and follow leave-no-trace principles to keep the lake quiet for wildlife. With PFDs included and space for small groups, this is a practical, scenic day on the water that highlights the quieter side of the White Mountains.
moderate.
5 hours.
Moderate fitness: comfortable paddling for several hours and ability to re-enter a boat after a capsize is recommended
Yes — personal flotation devices are supplied for all paddlers and must be worn while on the water.
The meeting point is at the public boat access at the end of a small, unnamed road off NH Rt. 25C in Piermont, marked by a brown sign reading 'Lake Tarleton: Boat Access Facility.'
The outing is self-guided and rated moderate; those with basic paddling skills can enjoy shorter loops, while the full outing requires sustained effort for several hours.
The site is listed as wheelchair accessible for the launch area, but water access and transferring into kayaks can vary — contact the operator about specific needs.
Public campaigns in the 1990s and 2000s protected much of the lake’s shoreline; the water level is maintained by a small dam and surrounding lands include state park parcels and national forest.
The lake sits adjacent to conserved parcels of the White Mountain National Forest — practice leave-no-trace and avoid shore erosion by launching from designated access points.
Ammonoosuc Outings operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.
Early light slices across the glassy bowl of Lake Tarleton and the water seems to breathe — small wakes fidget against the shoreline as loons call from hidden coves. Launching from a modest public boat access at the end of a short, unnamed road off NH Rt. 25C in Piermont, you push off with Mt. Moosilauke pinned on the horizon, its ridgeline a steady companion as you move at your own pace.
Early light slices across the glassy bowl of Lake Tarleton and the water seems to breathe — small wakes fidget against the shoreline as loons call from hidden coves. Launching from a modest public boat access at the end of a short, unnamed road off NH Rt. 25C in Piermont, you push off with Mt. Moosilauke pinned on the horizon, its ridgeline a steady companion as you move at your own pace.
The lake is a naturally occurring basin whose level is held by a small dam; public advocacy in the 1990s and 2000s protected much of the surrounding land, now conserved as Lake Tarleton State Park and parcels of the White Mountain National Forest. Geologically the valley is shaped by glacial scouring, with bedrock outcrops and shallow coves that frame the shoreline. The area’s rural culture is quietly woven into nearby farmsteads and seasonal camps — paddlers often trade waves with fishermen in small aluminum boats.
Practicalities are straightforward: this is a self-guided, five-hour outing with equipment, a waterproof dry bag, bottled water, snacks and a pamphlet with suggested routes and points of interest. Expect calm water early and more wind in the afternoon; keep to the protected inlets if you want shelter. The route is family-friendly for those with basic paddling experience but requires moderate fitness for a full circuit. Wear layered synthetics, bring sunscreen and insect repellent, stow gear in the provided dry bag, and follow leave-no-trace principles to keep the lake quiet for wildlife. With PFDs included and space for small groups, this is a practical, scenic day on the water that highlights the quieter side of the White Mountains.