Nansen Wayside Park

New Hampshire is an interesting place; the Granite State is home to some remarkably beautiful countryside that rewards an adventurous visitor. Many of the state's parks take advantage of the gorgeous forests and streams of New England, and Nansen Wayside Park is no exception.

Summer visit

Nansen Wayside Park rests on the banks of the Androscoggin River, a major waterway that extends up to the Gulf of Maine. The river is excellent for picnicking and boating, but it is a little too dangerous for swimmers. In the summer, this park is a popular destination for fishermen looking to land some river fish, as the boat launch is kept in good condition.

Winter competition

The real reason to visit Nansen Wayside Park is actually only used in the winter months. The park is the resting place of the legendary Nansen Ski Jump, constructed in 1936 to hold major ski jumping competitions. It hosted the Olympic trials in 1938, and for over 50 years it was the largest ski jump in the eastern United States at a length of 260 feet. The jump was closed in 1988, but it is still a very impressive sight.

Other amenities

Aside from the jump and the gorgeous river, there is not much else to do at Nansen Wayside Park. There are a few picnic areas for your use, but there are no campsites for overnight stays.

Whether you head to Nansen Wayside Park for some lazy summer days or frosty winter ones, locals know that this is one of the state's best parks.