Sky Pond | Lakes Region, New Hampshire

---

I won't soon tire of the urban grind. The fast-paced, on-the-go lifestyle is hard to give up once it becomes the norm. But that’s not to say a visit to the wild now and then isn’t a welcome chance to throw on a thick wool cardigan and come back down to Earth for a while. 

One of my favorite fall past times is to summit the novel peaks of New Hampshire’s White Mountains. They cater to a wide range of hiking levels, and even the newest climber will find manageable trails aplenty. Depending on the type of trip you’re looking for, you could be back in your car in an hour or setting off on a weeklong Appalachian Trail adventure. Whatever you decide, rest assured the panoramic views of New England’s fabled foliage will be well worth the drive north on 93. 

This fall I decided to check out Sky Pond, which proved to be one of the best-kept secrets in the Lakes Region. Accessible through a series of winding dirt roads, intersecting old farms with very few signs hinting at its existence, you’ll park next to the picturesque pond and make your way up to the top, where you’ll find sweeping views of Lakes Winona, Squam and Winnipesaukee and their surrounding peaks and valleys.  Expect the trip to take about 90 minutes, including time to enjoy the view. Pick a clear morning, lace up your Red Wings, pack a French press and start the day on a high (cliff).