Kayaking Squam Lake: Loons, Islands, and Quiet Paddling in New Hampshire
Kayaking on Squam Lake offers serene waters dotted with islands, where the calls of loons punctuate the quiet. This New Hampshire gem invites paddlers to explore rugged shores and calm coves, blending peaceful solitude with the thrill of nature's subtle challenges.
Launch Early for Calm Waters
Morning hours typically bring the lake’s smoothest surface and quietest wildlife activity, giving paddlers safer, more enjoyable conditions.
Respect Loons’ Space
Maintain a distance of at least 100 feet from loon nesting areas to avoid disturbing them during breeding season.
Pack Layers and Waterproof Gear
Weather can shift suddenly on the lake; bringing windbreakers, waterproof bags, and a dry change of clothes ensures comfort and safety.
Use a Map or GPS
The many islands and coves can disorient paddlers; a reliable navigation tool helps avoid drifting too far or losing track of launch sites.
Kayaking Squam Lake: Loons, Islands, and Quiet Paddling in New Hampshire
Squam Lake challenges you with its calm surface that hides currents and whispers of loon calls. Launch your kayak from one of the modest public access points, where morning mist drapes low and the island clusters await exploration. The lake's waters, cool and clear, pull you toward quiet coves framed by thick pines and rocky shores. Paddling here is less about speed and more about reading the rhythm of the lake, feeling the slap of water against your craft as the wind shifts.
A typical route covers anywhere from 5 to 12 miles, depending on which islands and bays you choose to visit. Start near Ashland’s Landing or the more secluded Rockywold–Deephaven Camps area to access a network of islands each with its own character. Bear Island’s rocky cliffs dare you to pause and take in panoramic views, while Little Bear Island offers sandy beaches perfect for a midday break.
Loons, with their haunting calls, maintain territories along quiet stretches. Their alert postures announce the arrival of paddlers, yet they respect the silent space — a dance of observation and distance. To preserve this delicate balance, keep a respectful distance and avoid loud noises.
Water temperature varies with the season; summer invites long sessions with a chance to glimpse fish darting beneath your paddle. Spring and fall bring crisp air and fewer boats, ideal for those seeking solitude but require wind-resistant clothing and higher awareness of water chill.
Plan your trip for early morning or late afternoon when calm winds and softer light reduce effort and illuminate the lake’s glassy surfaces. Check local weather and water conditions carefully before launching; sudden winds can rattle even an experienced paddler’s composure.
Bring layered clothing, a reliable PFD (personal flotation device), and waterproof bags for essentials. A dry map or GPS device aids navigation between the islands, especially if conditions cloud your visibility.
Squam Lake offers more than a paddle—it invites a mindful engagement with a lake fiercely itself. Here, nature is interactive, its shifts and moods a steady reminder that adventure is earned through respect and attention to detail. Pack well, paddle patiently, and let Squam’s quiet power shape your journey.
Nearby Trips
Adventures near Holderness
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Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the best launch points for kayaking on Squam Lake?
Two popular public launch sites are Ashland’s Landing on the eastern shore and the Rockywold–Deephaven Camps area near Holderness. Both provide easy access and ample parking, but Ashland’s Landing is generally less crowded.
Are motorboats allowed on Squam Lake?
Yes, motorboats are permitted, but the lake enforces speed zones to protect wildlife and maintain quiet paddling areas, especially near loon nesting sites.
Can I camp on the islands of Squam Lake?
Camping is restricted on most islands as they are privately owned or protected. It’s best to plan for day trips and check regulations for any public island access.
When is loon nesting season on Squam Lake?
Loons usually nest from late May through July. During this period, it’s critical to avoid approaching nesting sites closely to prevent disturbance.
Is kayaking in Squam Lake suitable for beginners?
Yes, the lake’s relatively flat water areas are beginner-friendly, but paddlers should still prepare for occasional wind and currents and use a map or GPS to avoid getting lost among islands.
What wildlife might I see while kayaking on Squam Lake?
Besides the iconic loons, paddlers can spot herons, kingfishers, turtles sunning on logs, deer at the shorelines, and occasionally bald eagles soaring overhead.
Recommended Gear
Personal Flotation Device (PFD)
Required safety gear for all paddlers, ensuring buoyancy and compliant with regulations.
Waterproof Dry Bags
Protect electronics, snacks, and clothing from splashes and unexpected weather.
Layered Clothing
Quick-drying base layers and windproof outer layers help manage changing temperatures.
Map or GPS Device
Navigational tools support safe traversal through Squam’s multiple islands and prevent disorientation.
Local Insights
Hidden Gems
- "Quiet Cove on Little Bear Island for an unspoiled shoreline break."
- "Upper Sargent Cove offers a rare shallow area perfect for spotting fish and frogs."
Wildlife
- "Common loons patrolling their territories with distinctive calls."
- "Occasional sightings of river otters slipping beneath the surface."
History
"Squam Lake was central to Native American fishing and travel routes, with several islands holding archaeological significance related to the Abenaki people."