The Paddle New Hampshire Festival in Moultonborough invites paddlers of every level to engage with water that’s lively and demanding—Lake Winnipesaukee’s shifting currents dare every stroke, while Squam Lake’s quiet coves reward patient exploration. This annual gathering is more than a race; it’s an invitation to sync with the waterways of central New Hampshire, where forests edge the shore like guardians and islands punctuate the blue horizon with their rugged profiles.

Held across several days, the festival offers a mix of organized races, guided paddling tours, and skill workshops that run the gamut from beginner safety to advanced racing tactics. Distances vary, often ranging from quick 3-mile sprints to challenging 10+ mile single-day courses. Elevation is less a factor here than in hiking, but lake wind and weather demand respect—conditions can shift with little warning, pushing your paddle and endurance.

Moultonborough’s landscape isn’t passive; ancient glacial formations nudge the shores, and thick forests press close behind campgrounds and boat launches. Each paddle stroke engages you with these forces—water levels that rise and fall, shifting breezes that accelerate mid-lake, and wildlife that peeks quietly along the banks. Loons call in the distance, and raptors circle overhead, watching with sharp intent.

For those planning their trip, timing is key. Early mornings bring calm waters ideal for novices, while afternoons can stir winds that challenge your control and stamina. Footwear should be water ready and quick drying; a sturdy paddle and properly fitting life jacket are non-negotiable. Hydration packs and waterproof bags keep essentials dry and close, ensuring you can focus on the rhythm of paddling rather than scrambling for gear.

Beyond the water, the festival site in Moultonborough offers excellent access to trails that echo the lake’s mood—tree-lined paths that absorb footsteps and rise over gentle ridges with views that stretch across the lake’s multiple arms. Whether representing a cooldown or a different form of adventure, these hikes expose you to granite ledges, fern-filled forest floors, and the occasional glimpse of a deer watching silently.

Engaging with Paddle New Hampshire means meeting nature as a force that is both inviting and exacting. It demands preparation but rewards with vivid memories: the spray of water on your skin, the pull of the paddle, and the steady heartbeat of a lake fiercely itself. For paddlers, it’s a practical adventure; for all, it’s a direct line to one of New England’s most dynamic outdoor communities.