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Nansen Wayside State Park

Nansen Wayside State Park Overview


Nansen Wayside State Park is a beautiful park located in Milan, New Hampshire. The park is named after Fridtjof Nansen, a Norwegian explorer, scientist, and diplomat who was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1922. The park is situated on the banks of the Androscoggin River and offers visitors a variety of activities to enjoy.

One of the main attractions of Nansen Wayside State Park is the Androscoggin River. Visitors can enjoy fishing, swimming, and boating in the river. The park also has a boat launch, making it easy for visitors to launch their own boats. The river is also a great place to go kayaking or canoeing, and visitors can rent kayaks and canoes from nearby outfitters.

In addition to the river, Nansen Wayside State Park has several hiking trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The trails range in difficulty from easy to moderate, making them suitable for hikers of all skill levels. Visitors can also explore the park’s picnic areas, which are perfect for a family outing or a romantic picnic.

For those interested in history, Nansen Wayside State Park has a museum that tells the story of Fridtjof Nansen and his expeditions. Visitors can learn about Nansen’s life and his contributions to science and diplomacy. The museum also has exhibits on the history of the Androscoggin River and the surrounding area.

Overall, Nansen Wayside State Park is a great place to visit for anyone looking to enjoy the great outdoors. With its beautiful river, hiking trails, and picnic areas, there is something for everyone to enjoy. And for those interested in history, the museum is a must-see.

Visitor’s Experience


Nansen Wayside State Park in New Hampshire offers a unique experience for visitors of all ages and interests. Families can enjoy a day of picnicking, hiking, and fishing, while couples can take a romantic stroll along the river or enjoy a peaceful picnic by the water. Friends can gather for a day of outdoor activities, such as kayaking, canoeing, and swimming, while solo visitors can find solace in the park’s serene surroundings.

For families, Nansen Wayside State Park is an ideal destination for a day trip. The park offers a variety of activities that are perfect for children of all ages, including a playground, picnic areas, and a swimming area. Families can also take a hike along the river and explore the park’s natural beauty. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including beavers, otters, and moose, which can be spotted along the river.

Couples looking for a romantic getaway will find Nansen Wayside State Park to be a peaceful and serene destination. The park’s natural beauty provides the perfect backdrop for a romantic picnic or a leisurely stroll along the river. Couples can also rent a canoe or kayak and explore the river together, taking in the stunning scenery and enjoying each other’s company.

Friends looking for a day of outdoor adventure will find plenty to do at Nansen Wayside State Park. The park offers a variety of activities, including kayaking, canoeing, and swimming. Friends can also take a hike along the river and explore the park’s natural beauty. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including beavers, otters, and moose, which can be spotted along the river.

Solo visitors looking for a peaceful retreat will find Nansen Wayside State Park to be a perfect destination. The park’s serene surroundings provide the perfect backdrop for a day of relaxation and reflection. Solo visitors can take a hike along the river, enjoy a picnic by the water, or simply sit and take in the park’s natural beauty.

The best times of year to visit Nansen Wayside State Park are in the spring and fall. In the spring, visitors can enjoy the park’s stunning wildflowers and watch as the trees begin to bud. In the fall, visitors can take in the park’s stunning fall foliage and enjoy the crisp autumn air. However, the park is open year-round, and visitors can enjoy a variety of activities throughout the year.

Overall, Nansen Wayside State Park offers a unique and memorable experience for visitors of all ages and interests. Whether you’re looking for a day of outdoor adventure or a peaceful retreat, this park has something for everyone.

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