The North Country of New Hampshire - by that I mean the area north of Franconia Notch, the far northern region of the Granite state known as the Gre
at North Woods Region - has always been a favorite New Hampshire vacation destination. The reasons are as varied as the temperatures in September. As Fall approaches this northern territory turns bright red, orange and yellow far earlier than the rest of the state. The cool nights begin in August and October never departs without covering the ground with the first frost of the season, a reminder of snowier days and nights ahead and here in Pittsburg that means hunters, outdoorsman and then snowmobilers.
Pittsburg is New Hampshire's Final Frontier - the region once known as The Indian Stream Republic is a naturalists paradise. Wildlife here includes; moose, otter, great blue herons, fox, deer, grouse, and some of the best birding and fishing in the east. The headwaters of the mighty Connecticut River is here and the succession of Connecticut Lakes create breathtaking views. Audubon Society members from all over the world visit this region to view migrating warblers and other species. The call of the loons are unforgettable and the immense variety of bird species is astounding. Pittsburg's boreal forest climate entices summering warblers from South America and beyond.
This four-season playground has grown and developed over the years but nearly all of the growth here is based on travel and tourism. The leaf peepers in Autumn give way to the Snowmobilers in Winter. Spring brings birders, hikers, and fishermen. The anglers come in search of Landlocked Salmon, Brook Trout and lunker Lakers. Summer brings naturalists, hikers, photographers, sightseers, moose watchers, and recreational fishermen. The beauty of this unspoiled land brings them back.
Some of the camps and cottage rentals in this area has existed for decades but now most include amenities once available only at luxury hotels. Several cabins offer color cable TV, lakefront lodging, 2-person Jacuzzi tubs, and fine dining.
The Glen is a remarkable lodge. Operated seasonally by Betty Falton and here fine staff. The Glen caters to visitors providing home-cooked breakfast, bagged lunch and a full dinner to guests. The lodge and most of the cabins sit directly on First Connecticut Lake and offer spectacular views.
There is a fantastic assortment of great lodging options in Pittsburg; Partridge Cabins has lakeside cabins, a nice gift shop and you'll find the regions best sundaes at Partridge Cabins Ice Cream stand on Route 3. Bear Tree Inn offers inn accommodations, fine dining in Murphy's Steakhouse and also has cabin rentals. North Country Lodge on Back Lake offers boat rentals and the well-stocked lake provides plenty trout action. Connecticut Lakes Lodge and adjacent Buck Rub Pub have nightly dinners specials, pizza and several brands of brew on tab. Both lodge and Buck Rub Pub is located on Route 3.
The State of New Hampshire (with the help of U.S. Federal Funds) has spent tens of thousands of dollars to improve the major roads in the region. U.S. Route 3, has recently been widened, re-paved and improved. The drive is quicker, safer, and easier than ever. Beware of Moose - yes there are plenty of them. Most active times for moose is early morning and around dusk. The huge animals can be hard to see at night so try to do your driving during daylight hours.
Consider spending a little more time travelling to reach this truly special place. I did ... back in 1969 and have found the time to return at least once a year since then. If you visit you will understand why.
