UFOs, Ghosts, and Cryptids: Paranormal New Hampshire
Just a short drive northwest of Concord, the town of Claremont offers a fascinating entry point into New Hampshire’s paranormal landscape with the Old Sugar River Railroad Bridge. This 19th-century stone arch bridge spans the Sugar River and is rumored locally to be haunted by workers who died during its construction. Visitors can stroll the nearby Sugar River Trail, a flat, easy path following the river, perfect for an afternoon walk in spring or fall when the foliage bursts with color. The bridge’s massive granite arches framed by the forested riverbanks create an eerie atmosphere, especially as twilight descends. History buffs and ghost hunters alike appreciate the site for its tangible link to the past and the whispered stories that keep the bridge’s spectral residents alive.
Heading north about 30 minutes from Manchester, the city of Laconia sits near the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee and offers a glimpse into New Hampshire’s cryptid lore at the Laconia Historical and Museum Society. Among its exhibits is a section dedicated to local folklore, prominently featuring the legendary “Lake Winnipesaukee Monster,” affectionately known as “Champ” by enthusiasts. The museum displays archival photographs, newspaper clippings, and artist renditions, giving visitors an immersive experience into decades of sightings around the lake. Visiting in summer adds a unique layer, when boaters and swimmers might keep an eye out for mysterious ripples on the water, blending the natural beauty of the largest lake in the state with its legendary mysteries.
Farther west, about an hour from Nashua, the Monadnock Region is home to Mount Monadnock, a mountain famous not just for its panoramic summit views but also for tales of UFO sightings. Hikers who take the White Dot Trail, a moderate 3.2-mile ascent, often report strange lights in the sky after dusk. The mountain’s exposed granite summit reaches 3,165 feet, offering clear, unobstructed views of the night sky, which makes it a favorite spot for amateur astronomers and those curious about alien encounters. Fall is a particularly magical time to visit, when the crisp air and vibrant foliage create a perfect backdrop for stargazing and, if you’re lucky, a glimpse of unexplained aerial phenomena.
In the heart of Keene, about 45 minutes southwest of Concord, the Horatio Colony Museum offers a different kind of supernatural allure. This small museum, housed in a historic granite building, showcases the works of Horatio Colony, a local artist, alongside rotating exhibits on regional folklore and ghost stories. The museum’s intimate setting allows visitors to connect deeply with the local culture and legends, such as haunting tales tied to the nearby 19th-century homes. During Halloween season, the museum often hosts special talks or events exploring these ghost stories, making autumn evenings in Keene especially atmospheric for those fascinated by the unseen.
Traveling north to the White Mountains, about 90 minutes from Manchester, the town of Lincoln is a gateway to the haunted halls of the Historic Loon Mountain Area. The nearby Loon Mountain Resort, known for its winter sports, also has its share of ghost stories, particularly around the old inns and lodges in the village. Snow-covered trails and the crunch of fresh powder add to the eerie silence that envelops the mountains after dark. Visitors can explore wilderness trails like the Flume Gorge, a moderate 2-mile walk through a natural granite gorge, by day and then settle into a rustic lodge rumored to be haunted by a former caretaker’s spirit, blending the thrill of nature with spectral legends.
Along the Connecticut River in Hanover, roughly 45 minutes north of Keene, Dartmouth College’s Hood Museum of Art offers a scholarly portal into New Hampshire’s mysterious past. The museum features collections that include Native American artifacts and early settler relics, some tied to supernatural beliefs and legends of the region. Exhibits often highlight how indigenous and colonial narratives shaped local ideas about spirits and monsters, making it a must-visit for those interested in the cultural roots of the state’s paranormal tales. Visiting during the quieter winter months allows for reflective viewing in a peaceful academic setting.
Finally, down in Portsmouth, just an hour east of Concord, the Strawbery Banke Museum preserves a historic waterfront neighborhood with buildings dating back to the 17th century. Guided evening tours here bring to life stories of the city’s haunted past, including merchant sailors’ ghostly appearances and mysterious lights along the Piscataqua River. The cobblestone streets and colonial architecture, bathed in the glow of lanterns, create an evocative atmosphere ideal for ghost hunters and history lovers alike. Summer nights along the waterfront are enchanting, offering a blend of maritime history and spooky tales that anchor New Hampshire’s paranormal scene firmly in place.