Fitzwilliam: Rhododendron Grove, Trails and Village History

A 16-acre rhododendron grove is at the heart of Rhododendron State Park and gives the park its name. The area also offers trails with very different characteristics: a level gravel path on a former railroad bed, uphill hiking trails and a short out-and-back route to a viewpoint. Fitzwilliam thus offers specific ways to include nature experiences and village history in your travel plans.

Rhododendron State Park and Rail Trail

The rhododendron grove in the state park is the largest in northern New England and was designated a National Natural Landmark in 1982. Visitors interested in plants and natural landscapes will find a special destination here in Fitzwilliam. The 16-acre grove not only gives the park its name but is also at its heart.

The Fitzwilliam/Cheshire Branch Rail Trail offers a different way to spend time outdoors. The former railroad bed has been converted into a level gravel path. Hiking, running, mountain biking, cross-country skiing and snowmobiling are all permitted on the trail. These activities range from walking and cycling to winter pursuits. When choosing an outing, you can consider which of these options suits your stay.

Parking for the Rail Trail is available at Rockwood Pond, the Depot and Old Turnpike Road. Additional parking is available at the crossings of Rhododendron Road, Royalston Road, West Lake Road and East Lake Road, as well as on NH Route 12 South at State Line Circle. These different access points give you several named options for incorporating the trail into your day’s plans.

Trails with different route characteristics

The Little Monadnock Trail begins at the loop in Rhododendron State Park, climbs for over a mile and meets the Metacomet-Monadnock Trail on open rock near the summit. Those looking for a hike with an ascent and a connection to a longer-distance trail can follow this route. The Metacomet-Monadnock Trail is 114 miles long, passes through Fitzwilliam, crosses the trails in Widow Gage Town Forest and runs over Little Monadnock Mountain.

Another option is the Sip Pond Peninsula Trail in the Chamberlain Conservation Area. The just under 1.5-mile route is an out-and-back trail that ends at a viewpoint. Fishing, birdwatching and enjoying the view are possible activities there. The route is listed as accessible to pedestrians, wheelchairs, strollers and bicycles. Its length and described route therefore differ significantly from the uphill connection at Little Monadnock.

You can also explore Fitzwilliam’s former ski area on foot: the hike crosses the field and follows the former ski slopes. Along the way, there are views of Fitzwilliam village. The area is described as a former ski-slope landscape, not as a current ski resort.

Village history and water

Fitzwilliam’s Historic District is largely confined to the Village Center and includes 165 properties. Those who want to include the historic layout of the town in their stay, as well as its trails, will find a clearly defined point of interest there. Laurel Lake also has a boat launch, a specific point of reference for visitors interested in the lake.

When looking for a vacation rental in Fitzwilliam, you can first consider what you want your stay to focus on: the rhododendron grove, the different hiking and cycling trails, views of the village, or the Village Center and its Historic District. This lets you choose a destination based on the experiences that are most interesting to you and your family.

Other places: Jaffrey, Keene, Rindge, Harrisville, Chesterfield, Swanzey.

For the broader travel overview: Cheshire.