Hike to Fourth Connecticut Lake
Details
Distance
2 miles
Elevation Gain
350 ft
Route Type
Loop
Added by Christopher Zajac
At 2,670 feet above sea-level the small Fourth Connecticut Lake is the beginning of the 410-mile Connecticut River. The trail winds up a hill crisscrossing the Canadian-United States border for much of the hike.
The Fourth Connecticut Lake is a northern glacial tarn, just 2.5 acres in surface area. The mighty Connecticut River is just a small babbling brook as it leaves Fourth Connecticut Lake. It's only about 200 yards from the Canadian border. The 78-acre area is a nature sanctuary preserved by The Nature Conservancy.
This trail is one of few trails in the world that crosses international borders. There are some great windows to look through to the north and see the mountains of our northern neighbor, Canada.
The preserve is densely wooded with fir, spruce, birch, and other species of trees. Woodland wildflowers abound, too.
Here's a video that I made of my hike.
This is a very wild area and as such is sensitive. Respect the pristine natural environment around you. You may encounter moose, deer, beaver, lots birds, and flora on this hike. Enjoy!
The trail starts next to the road to the North of the Border Station, about 50 feet from the International border. A large sign is posted by the Nature Conservancy. Follow the trail up the hill. Pay attention to the ground, you'll set over several international border markers. The trail skirts private property, stay on the trail. When you reach the lake you can follow the trail in either direction as it just loops around.
Directions and ParkingDrive north on US 3 in New Hampshire. You'll approach the US Border Station. There are parking spots for hikers on the right. Walk toward the international border where the two flags are standing side by side. Across the street are the signs for the beginning of the trail. Follow the markers.
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Details
Distance
2 miles
Elevation Gain
350 ft
Route Type
Loop
Leave No Trace
Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!
We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on.