Wonalancet Outdoor Center is a premier destination for outdoor education and adventure in New Hampshire's White Mountains, offering extensive hiking, paddling, and camping experiences amidst rich forests and mountain streams.
Located in Tamworth, New Hampshire, the Wonalancet Outdoor Center operates as a nonprofit experiential education and outdoor recreation facility within the White Mountains region. The center spans several hundred acres of forested land along the Swift River and provides a wide range of activities including hiking, kayaking, mountain biking, and camping. Its landscape features mixed hardwood and conifer forests, rocky streams, and scenic mountain views, offering valuable habitat for diverse wildlife such as black bears, moose, and a variety of bird species.
Founded in the late 20th century, Wonalancet Outdoor Center was developed to create a place for environmental education, youth programs, and community outdoor recreation. The center includes cabin-style lodging, a camp store, and numerous trails that connect to the broader White Mountain National Forest trail network. Visitors can easily access trailheads for day hikes, explore the nearby Sandwich Range Wilderness, or enjoy paddling on the nearby Swift River. The center has built a reputation for its supportive outdoor learning environment, suitable for families, students, and independent adventurers alike.
The surrounding area offers notable landmarks such as the summit of Mount Wonalancet and proximate views of Mount Chocorua. The center appeals to outdoor enthusiasts seeking a less crowded alternative to more commercialized locations in the White Mountains, emphasizing stewardship, sustainability, and community engagement in all its programs.
Access to the scenic Sandwich Range Wilderness
Swift River paddling and fishing opportunities
Educational environmental programs and guided adventures
Peaceful forest trails with excellent wildlife viewing
A clear, rock-bottom river offering excellent paddling and fishing in a serene mountain setting.
A moderate hiking trail leading to panoramic views of the White Mountains from the summit.
Classrooms, cabins, and outdoor meeting areas supporting year-round environmental education.