6 Proposal-Worthy Hiking Trails in MA and NH

Brittany Beth Photography

You've found the perfect person, you've found the perfect ring, and now it's time for the perfect proposal. You love the outdoors, staying active, and you both appreciate a beautiful view that much more when you get to work for it. What better way to propose than on a hike! It's an activity you can do and enjoy together, they won't suspect a thing because they'll always say yes to a hike-no questions asked, and there is natural beauty all around you meaning the opportunities for a great photo are endless. Now you just have to pick a trail they'll love the most. This is why we've picked out plenty of options for you to choose from, not only in New Hampshire but Massachusetts as well! Read on to see our top ten hiking trails in both Massachusetts and New Hampshire sure to knock their hiking boots off.

1. Mount Major: Alton, NH

Located in Alton, NH, Mount Major is about a 1,785 foot hike up to the top that offers panoramic views of Lake Winnipesaukee. There are many trails to choose from of all different skill levels including the main Mt. Major trail (1.5 miles), the Boulder Loop trail (1.6 miles), the Elevation Gain trail (1,100 ft.) and the high difficulty trail. As you walk through the forest, you will notice large boulders deposited by the last ice age about 10,000 years ago and you can even catch an early glimpse of Winnipesaukee on your way up on one of these vast boulders. You don't even need to make it all the way up for a great photo!

2. Franconia Notch: Franconia/Lincoln, NH

Located in the heart of the White Mountains, Franconia Notch extends from the Flume Gorge at the south to Echo Lake at the north. A hike here entails eight miles of land where you can swim at Echo Lake, fish at Profile Lake, ride a bike on the Recreational Trail, go rock climbing, or hike on the Appalachian trail. Home of the famous Old Man of the Mountain, Franconia Notch is renowned in more ways than one. Infamous for its Flume Gorge, this natural narrow valley extends over 800 feet at the base of Mount Liberty where guests can walk uphill through stairs. With the flowing stream of water, walls of granite on each side rising to 70-90 feet and the love of your life standing next to you, it's the perfect place to get down on one knee!

3. Odiorne Point State Park: Rye, NH

With views of the ocean and rocky shore, Odiorne State Park is a unique hiking option in New Hampshire for a couple that loves both wooded areas and ocean views. In addition to this and its extensive network of trails, the Seacoast Science Center also sits in the park, open daily, offering exhibits about plants, animals, social history, and natural history of the surrounding seacoast area.

4. Purgatory Chasm: Sutton, MA

Not to be confused with the Purgatory Watershed Trails in NH, the Purgatory Chasm in Sutton, MA offers something a little different. This hiking trail is a unique natural landmark that consists of interesting rock formations unlike anything you've ever seen before. These rock formations and trails are so infamous they have even been given names such as the Devil's Corn Crib, the Coffin and Lovers' Leap. It's completely up to you but a proposal at the Lovers Leap rock formation might go over a lot better with the future fiance. If you're waiting to pop the question once you reach the top, don't worry, there are beautiful views waiting for you there too.

5. Blue Hills Reservation: Milton, MA

Perfect for a low key day trip close to the city, Blue Hills' view spans over 7,000 acres covering areas of Quincy, Braintree, Canton, Dedham, Milton and Randolph, MA. There are hiking trails of varying skill levels available, steep or scenic, over hills, rock formations, marshes, meadows and more. There is also a museum along with some live animals including otters and foxes to check out on your way up the trail. If you choose to take the Hancock Hill trail up to the top, the Eliot Observation Tower is waiting for you with panoramic views of the Boston skyline and Massachusetts' South Shore.

6. Wachusett Mountain: Princeton, MA

With the option to hike or bike in the summer and ski in the winter, this 3,000 acre state reservation is a great hiking option for a Massachusetts couple west of the city. Drive your car straight up to the summit for breathtaking 360 degree views or go hiking on the 17 miles of trails ranging from 1.2 to 7.1 miles long through forests, alpine meadows, fields, streams and ponds. From the Summit, this 2,000 foot peak reveals views of Mt. Monadnock in New Hampshire, the Berkshires to the west, and the Boston skyline to the east.

Ready to try on engagement rings at a jewelry store? Make an appointment or stop by a Long’s Jewelers location any time to get started!