Warren

Small White Mountains town below Mt Moosilauke, threaded by the Baker River and Appalachian Trail

Warren is a small White Mountains town at the foot of Mt Moosilauke on the western edge of the range. The Appalachian Trail passes through, and snowmelt from Moosilauke feeds the Baker River, which winds through town and offers a string of good swimming holes in summer. In winter, Corridor 5 snowmobile trail brings riders through on their way north toward the Canadian border, and ATV traffic follows in the warmer months.

Eighty percent of the town's area is National Forest, and forestry remains its largest industry. Warren's modest roster of attractions includes the Redstone Rocket — an actual Redstone missile on display in the town center — the state fish hatchery, and the now-closed Morse Museum.

Guide

Getting There

Warren sits on Route 25, roughly midway between Plymouth to the south (about 30 km) and Haverhill to the north (about 20 km). From I-93, take Exit 26 at Plymouth and follow Route 25 west through Rumney and Wentworth. The drive from Plymouth takes about 35 minutes.

There is no public transport to Warren. A car is essential. Manchester–Boston Regional Airport is about 130 km southeast; Manchester is the most convenient regional hub. Boston's Logan Airport is about 200 km south and has more flight options.

Greyhound and Concord Coach Lines serve Plymouth; from there you would need a car or a lift. Several car rental agencies operate in Plymouth and in the Lakes Region to the east.

Guide

Things to Do

Warren punches well above its weight for a town of 800 people. The Redstone Rocket in the town center is reason enough to slow down and stop, and the Baker River provides summer swimming holes that see more locals than tourists. The White Mountain National Forest surrounds on nearly every side, making the town a quiet base for hiking, snowmobiling, and ATV riding.

Guide

When to Go

Warren has four distinct seasons and most activities are tied to the weather.

Summer (June–August) is the most popular time. The Baker River swimming holes are at their best in July and early August, the hiking on Moosilauke is straightforward, and the roads are open throughout the National Forest. Expect warm days (highs around 27°C/80°F) and cool nights.

Autumn (September–October) brings spectacular foliage across the surrounding hills and along the Baker River valley. Peak color typically arrives in early to mid-October. The Appalachian Trail section over Moosilauke is spectacular at this time of year and sees heavy use from section hikers finishing up their fall mileage.

Winter (December–March) is snowmobile season. Corridor 5 passes through town and connects Warren to a larger network running north toward the Canadian border. Cross-country skiers use the National Forest roads. Temperatures can drop well below freezing and snowfall is heavy — this is not a destination for those unprepared for serious cold.

Spring (April–May) is mud season. Roads deteriorate and the Baker River runs high and fast from snowmelt. The fishing opens in late April, and trout season brings anglers to the river as soon as conditions allow.