Pawtuckaway SP--North Mt., Nottingham

Pawtuckaway SP--North Mt., Nottingham

Nottingham, New Hampshire 03290

Pawtuckaway State Park Official Website
Pawtuckaway State Park trail map

About this Location

North Mountain is one of the three main peaks in Pawtuckaway State Park. It is a popular destination for hikers, bikers, and rock climbers who enjoy the scenic views and varied terrain. The summit of North Mountain is 1011 feet above sea level and offers a panoramic view of the surrounding lakes and forests. The mountain is also home to a fire tower that was built in 1915 and is still in use today. North Mountain is part of the Pawtuckaway Ring Dike, a circular formation of volcanic rocks that dates back to 130 million years ago. The ring dike is about 6 miles in diameter and contains several other interesting features including caves, boulders, and wetlands.

About Pawtuckaway State Park

See all hotspots at Pawtuckaway State Park

Pawtuckaway State Park is a huge state park covering most of the southern end of the Town of Nottingham. It centers around several peaks that comprise Mount Pawtuckaway and abuts the western edge of Pawtuckaway Lake. (The other edges of the lake are private property.) An area called Burnham Marsh is near the end of the main entrance road just before the campground and adjacent to the Fundy Trail. Because of the campground and the many people who stay there, this area usually has a lot of people around, so the birding may not be ideal.

Pawtuckaway Lake is on the east side, but most birding is done in the large forested area in the western part of the park. That area includes Middle Mountain and South Mountain, trails through the extensive forest, ponds, and scattered open wetlands. The flies come out after mid-June, so try to visit before then. Of course, most of this rather large park is not explored by birders on an annual basis and surprises likely await in the more remote areas.

The Fundy Trail between the campground area and the boat launch area passes through woods and by Burnham Marsh. It can be productive, but because of the nearby campground and the many people who stay there, it is often crowded.

Features

  • Entrance fee

  • Restrooms on site

  • Wheelchair accessible trail

Last updated October 25, 2023