Hermit Lake: Why We Love It Here

Everyone asks about Lake Winnipesaukee because it's the famous one. But we have our lake house on Hermit Lake, and honestly, we prefer it. It's quieter, less crowded, and the water is just as nice. Here's what you should know about it.

Why Hermit Lake?

Hermit Lake (pronounced "win-ih-SQUAM") is New Hampshire's fourth-largest lake, stretching seven miles through the towns of Sanbornton, Tilton, Belmont, Laconia, and Meredith. Unlike its famous neighbor, Hermit Lake maintains a peaceful, uncrowded atmosphere while offering all the activities that make the Lakes Region special.

Quick Facts:

• Size: 4,264 acres
• Maximum depth: 168 feet
• Miles of shoreline: 23
• Water clarity: Excellent (15-20 foot visibility)
• Fish species: Smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, lake trout, rainbow trout, pickerel

Water Activities

Swimming

The water in Hermit Lake is remarkably clean and clear. Our property features a private dock where you can swim directly into crystal-clear water. The lake warms up nicely by late June, reaching comfortable swimming temperatures (70-75°F) by July.

Best Swimming Spots:

• Private docks (like ours!)
• Hermit Lake Beach (public access in Tilton)
• Sanbornton town beach

Kayaking & Paddleboarding

Hermit Lake's relatively calm waters make it perfect for paddling. Early mornings are magical—the lake is often glass-smooth, reflecting the surrounding hills like a mirror.

Paddling Tips:

• Launch from our dock for easy access
• Explore the coves along the eastern shore
• Watch for loons—they nest on the lake
• Bring a waterproof bag for snacks and phone

Fishing

Hermit Lake offers excellent fishing year-round. The lake is known for its healthy bass population, but you'll also find trout, pickerel, and perch.

Fishing Guide:

• Smallmouth Bass: Best May-June and September-October. Try rocky points and drop-offs.
• Largemouth Bass: Look in the weedy coves, especially early morning and evening.
• Lake Trout: Deep water fishing, best in spring and fall.
• Ice Fishing: Popular in winter for trout and pickerel.

License Required: NH fishing license available online at wildlife.nh.gov

Boating

The lake has a 45 MPH speed limit during the day (slower at night), making it suitable for water skiing, tubing, and wakeboarding. Several marinas offer boat rentals if you don't bring your own.

Boat Rentals:

• Fay's Boat Yard (Gilford)
• Hermit Lake Marine (Tilton)

Land Activities

Hiking

The Lakes Region offers excellent hiking with stunning lake views.

Nearby Trails:

• Hermit Woods Trail (0.3 miles from our property): Easy walk through beautiful forest
• Gunstock Mountain (15 minutes): Multiple trails from easy to challenging
• Mount Major (30 minutes): Moderate hike with panoramic lake views
• Belknap Range (20 minutes): Full day of hiking options

Gunstock Mountain Resort

Just 15 minutes from our property, Gunstock offers year-round activities:

Summer:

• Mountain coaster
• Aerial treetop adventures
• Ziplines
• Mountain biking

Winter:

• Downhill skiing and snowboarding
• Cross-country skiing
• Tubing
• Night skiing

Golf

Several excellent courses are within easy reach:

• Laconia Country Club (15 min)
• Pheasant Ridge Golf Club (20 min)
• Owl's Nest Resort (25 min)

Seasonal Guide

Spring (April-May)

• Ice-out typically mid-April
• Excellent fishing as water warms
• Fewer crowds, lower rates
• Wildflowers blooming
• Loons returning to the lake

Summer (June-August)

• Peak swimming season
• Water temperatures 70-78°F
• July 4th fireworks on the lake
• Farmers markets in nearby towns
• Long, warm evenings on the dock

Fall (September-October)

• Peak foliage: Late September to mid-October
• Stunning colors reflected in the lake
• Warm days, cool nights
• Excellent hiking weather
• Apple picking and cider donuts

Winter (November-March)

• Ice fishing (when lake freezes, typically January)
• Skiing at Gunstock
• Snowmobiling on local trails
• Cozy fireside evenings
• Lower rates and peaceful solitude

Dining Near the Lake

Casual Lakeside

• Patrick's Pub & Eatery (Gilford): Great pub food, lake views
• Sawyer's Dairy Bar (Gilford): Ice cream and casual fare

Fine Dining

• The Hilltop Restaurant (Sanbornton): Upscale dining with views
• Steele Hill Resort (Sanbornton): Fine dining and spa

Local Favorites

• Tilton Diner: Classic New England diner
• Tilt'n Diner: Retro atmosphere, great breakfast

Practical Information

Getting Here

• From Boston: 1.75 hours via I-93 North
• From Manchester: 1 hour via I-93 North
• From Portland, ME: 2 hours via Route 25

What to Bring

• Layers (lake weather can change quickly)
• Sunscreen and sunglasses
• Water shoes for dock and beach
• Binoculars for wildlife watching
• Camera for the views

Wildlife to Watch For

• Loons (listen for their haunting calls)
• Bald eagles (increasingly common)
• Great blue herons
• Painted turtles
• White-tailed deer

Our Favorite Hermit Lake Day

Morning:

• Coffee on the dock watching the mist rise
• Kayak paddle around the cove
• Swim in the crystal-clear water

Afternoon:

• Drive to Gunstock for mountain coaster
• Lunch at Patrick's Pub
• Explore Meredith village

Evening:

• Grill dinner on the deck
• Watch the sunset over the lake
• Stargazing (minimal light pollution)

Ready to experience Hermit Lake? Book our lakefront property [blocked] and discover why this is New Hampshire's best-kept secret.