8 Best-Selling New Hampshire Travel Guide Books Readers Can't Put Down

Explore a curated list of best-selling New Hampshire Travel Guide books written by leading experts, offering trusted advice and insider tips for your next trip.

Updated on June 28, 2025
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There's something special about books that both critics and crowds love, and when it comes to New Hampshire travel, these eight guides have proven their lasting appeal. Whether you're drawn by the allure of the White Mountains, the charm of Portsmouth, or the state's rich natural and cultural tapestry, these books offer trusted pathways to explore. Their popularity reflects a shared confidence in their practical insights and engaging storytelling, making them invaluable companions for your journey.

Authors like Christina Tree, who has shaped the Explorer's Guide series for over three decades, bring deep expertise and firsthand knowledge to their work. Alongside writers such as Barbara Rogers and Eric Riback, who illuminate New Hampshire's hidden corners and historic covered bridges, these guides have earned their place through detailed research and an authentic voice. Their works bridge the gap between casual tourists and dedicated explorers, offering something for every traveler.

While these popular books provide proven frameworks, readers seeking content tailored to their specific New Hampshire travel interests might consider creating a personalized New Hampshire Travel Guide book that combines these validated approaches with your unique preferences and goals. This way, you can enjoy both expert knowledge and a customized roadmap for your adventure.

Best for comprehensive trip planning
Christina Tree launched the Explorer’s Guide series over 30 years ago and has earned honors from the Maine Publicity Bureau and the New England Innkeepers Association. As a regular contributor to Yankee Magazine, she travels thousands of miles annually to update her guides with fresh insights. Her commitment to firsthand research makes this book a trusted companion for exploring New Hampshire, blending authoritative knowledge with practical travel tips.
Explorer's Guide New Hampshire (Explorer's Complete) book cover

by Christina Tree, Christine Hamm, Katherine Imbrie··You?

2010·528 pages·New Hampshire Travel Guide, New England Travel Guide, Travel, Local Culture, Outdoor Activities

Christina Tree, with over three decades of experience launching the Explorer’s Guide series, brings a deep, hands-on knowledge of New Hampshire to this extensive travel guide. You’ll find detailed insights into the state's diverse landscapes, from rugged mountain trails to coastal attractions, enriched by vivid color highlights and thoughtful photography. The book offers practical advice tailored to varied interests and budgets, making it easier for you to plan trips that match your pace and preferences. Whether you’re navigating hiking routes or seeking local cultural gems, this guide provides a nuanced perspective that benefits both first-timers and seasoned travelers.

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Best for birdwatching enthusiasts
This guide stands out in New Hampshire travel literature by offering expert-backed insights into birdwatching locations and techniques. It draws on extensive regional knowledge to map over 120 birding sites, helping you uncover the state’s avian diversity from the Connecticut River Valley to offshore ledges. Focusing on where and when to find birds rather than just identification, it appeals to both beginners and seasoned birdwatchers eager to deepen their experience. The book’s thoughtful approach to conservation, ethics, and seasonal patterns makes it a valuable companion for anyone exploring New Hampshire’s natural treasures.
Birdwatching in New Hampshire book cover

by Eric A. Masterson·You?

2013·232 pages·Birdwatching, New Hampshire Travel Guide, Wildlife Observation, Conservation, Seasonal Migration

After exploring New Hampshire's diverse habitats, Eric A. Masterson developed this guide to help you navigate the state’s rich birdwatching opportunities. Rather than focusing on bird identification, the book directs you to over 120 prime birding locations with detailed maps and seasonal insights, such as when and where to spot specific species. You’ll also gain an understanding of birdwatching ethics, equipment essentials, and conservation efforts, making it suitable whether you’re a backyard enthusiast or an experienced birder. If you want to deepen your appreciation of New Hampshire’s avian life and find those elusive sightings, this guide offers practical, region-specific knowledge that’s hard to find elsewhere.

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Best for custom travel plans
This AI-created book on New Hampshire travel is designed around your personal interests and experience level. You share what parts of New Hampshire excite you most and your travel goals, and it is crafted to cover exactly what you want to learn and explore. Personalizing your journey like this means you get focused guidance on destinations and tips that truly suit your style, instead of a one-size-fits-all guide. That way, your adventure through New Hampshire becomes uniquely yours right from the first page.
2025·50-300 pages·New Hampshire Travel Guide, New Hampshire Travel, Local Culture, Hidden Gems, Travel Planning

This tailored New Hampshire Explorer Blueprint offers a guided journey through the state's most captivating destinations and lesser-known treasures. It explores popular landmarks alongside hidden gems, matching your unique background and travel interests. By focusing on your specific goals, this book reveals travel routes, local culture insights, and practical tips that enrich every step of your adventure. Combining widespread reader-validated knowledge with your personal preferences, it creates a tailored experience that helps you confidently plan trips that resonate with your sense of discovery. Here, exploration becomes both informed and intimate, inviting you to dive deep into New Hampshire’s diverse landscapes with personalized guidance that truly fits your travel style.

Tailored Guide
Custom Exploration
1,000+ Happy Readers
Best for hiking and backpacking trips
What makes this guide stand out in New Hampshire travel literature is its thorough coverage of trails from the state’s southern seacoast to its northern reaches near Canada. It offers readers a versatile approach to exploring the Granite State’s outdoors, whether you prefer easy woods walks or strenuous climbs. The book’s sixth edition reflects sustained reader trust and adoption, with vivid descriptions of unique landmarks like ice caves and fire towers. This guide meets the needs of hikers at all levels who want to experience New Hampshire’s varied landscapes with confidence and insight.
2014·264 pages·New Hampshire Travel Guide, Hiking, Backpacking, Day Hikes, Trail Navigation

Daniel Doan and Ruth Doan MacDougall compiled a richly detailed guide that captures the essence of New Hampshire's diverse hiking landscape, from gentle woodland strolls to demanding ascents of 4,000-foot peaks. You’ll discover not only trail descriptions but also practical insights for day hikes and backpacking trips that stretch from the seacoast to the Canadian border, including unique features like ice caves in King Ravine and fire towers up north. This 6th edition balances adventure with accessibility, making it suitable whether you’re seeking a leisurely walk or a challenging trek. If you want a nuanced exploration of New Hampshire’s natural beauty with clear, varied trail options, this guide is tailored for you.

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This guide stands out for its full-color approach and extensive coverage of Maine, Vermont, and New Hampshire, offering 36 maps and 146 photos to enrich your travel planning. It has become a trusted companion for travelers eager to explore the Northeast United States with confidence, blending expert insights and practical tools. The inclusion of local writer perspectives and up-to-date information ensures you get more than just the basics, making it a valuable resource for those who want to experience the region's diverse offerings—from the White Mountains to coastal towns—fully informed and prepared.

After careful examination, Fodor's editors have crafted a travel guide that brings Maine, Vermont, and New Hampshire vividly to life through 36 detailed maps, 146 color photos, and insightful regional features. You’ll find practical tools for trip customization, from lodging comparisons to Fodor’s Choice recommendations for dining and sightseeing, making it easy to plan your ideal itinerary. The guide also offers local tips on seasonal activities like fall foliage and winter sports, alongside honest opinions from destination experts and fellow travelers. If you want a resource that blends visually rich content with grounded advice tailored to these states, this book will serve your planning well, though it’s best suited for travelers seeking comprehensive regional insight rather than just quick snapshots.

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Kerry L. Fay brings over two decades of life in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, to this travel guide, blending her professional chef background and passion for travel into an intimate portrait of the city. Her firsthand knowledge and love for the area shape a book designed to move you beyond surface-level tourism. Drawing from years of local experience, Kerry invites you to explore Portsmouth through cultural nuances and culinary delights, preparing you for a visit that feels personal and engaging.
2020·102 pages·New Hampshire Travel Guide, Tourist Destination, Travel, Local Culture, Tourism

Unlike most travel guides that list sights and schedules, Kerry L. Fay's local experience in Portsmouth shapes this book into a nuanced companion for those wanting to connect beyond the usual tourist stops. You’ll gain insights into the culture, culinary highlights, and community rhythms that typical guides overlook, such as how to savor local flavors and engage with residents meaningfully. The book’s 50 travel tips encourage slowing down to appreciate the city’s character, making it ideal for travelers eager to immerse themselves authentically rather than rush through landmarks. If you prefer depth over checklists, this guide offers a thoughtful perspective on exploring Portsmouth’s unique charm.

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Best for custom outdoor plans
This AI-created book on outdoor adventure in New Hampshire is written based on your experience level and specific interests. You share the types of activities you enjoy, such as hiking or birdwatching, along with your goals for exploring the region. The book is then crafted to focus on exactly what you want to learn and achieve, making your 30-day outdoor journey both manageable and deeply engaging.
2025·50-300 pages·New Hampshire Travel Guide, Outdoor Activities, Hiking Trails, Birdwatching, Nature Trips

This tailored book explores a personalized approach to enjoying New Hampshire's diverse outdoor landscapes through hikes, birdwatching, and nature trips. It covers how to design a 30-day adventure plan that matches your background and interests, emphasizing local trails, wildlife habitats, and scenic spots. By focusing on your goals, it reveals ways to engage deeply with the natural environment, understand seasonal variations, and navigate safely through varied terrain. This customized guide blends popular knowledge with your unique preferences, offering a curated experience that brings New Hampshire's outdoors directly to you. You gain practical knowledge that aligns perfectly with your outdoor enthusiasm and skill level, making exploration more rewarding and immersive.

Tailored Guide
Local Trail Insights
3,000+ Books Created
Best for discovering hidden gems
Barbara Radcliffe Rogers and Stillman Rogers bring extensive experience as travel writers and photographers with over thirty books on travel, wildlife, and gardening. Their deep knowledge of New Hampshire and compelling storytelling provide a rich backdrop for this guide, inviting you to discover parts of the Granite State that many overlook. Alongside Amanda Silva, whose background in content creation and literary writing adds fresh perspectives, they offer a unique window into New Hampshire’s hidden charms and cultural treasures.
New Hampshire Off the Beaten Path®: Discover Your Fun (Off the Beaten Path Series) book cover

by Barbara Rogers, Stillman Rogers, Amanda Silva··You?

2019·240 pages·New Hampshire Travel Guide, Travel, Local Culture, Outdoor Activities, Hidden Gems

Barbara and Stillman Rogers bring decades of travel writing and photography experience to guide you beyond New Hampshire's usual tourist spots. This book invites you to explore hidden gems like the Robert Frost Homestead nature trail and the New England Ski Museum, blending local history with authentic food experiences such as the Yankee Smokehouse’s open pit BBQ. You’ll learn how to uncover unique cultural and natural sites that many visitors overlook, making your trips feel fresh and personal. If you’re tired of the standard attractions and want to discover New Hampshire’s less traveled paths, this guide offers a well-illustrated, engaging roadmap to do just that.

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Best for historical and architectural tours
Eric Riback lives in New York's Hudson Valley and brings decades of experience in map publishing, having worked with National Geographic Maps, Mapquest, and DeLorme. His background in cartography and digital mapping informs this guide, which catalogs every authentic covered bridge in New Hampshire, complete with GPS data and detailed local maps. Riback's passion for precise navigation and historical detail shines through, making this book a valuable tool for travelers eager to explore these storied structures with confidence and context.
2021·120 pages·New Hampshire Travel Guide, Travel, Local Guides, New Hampshire Travel, Covered Bridges

This isn't another travel guide promising generic sightseeing tips; Eric Riback zeroes in on New Hampshire's authentic covered bridges, offering detailed GPS coordinates, local maps, and historical insights that bring these structures to life. You'll explore every surviving bridge in the state, enriched by 20 original illustrations that clarify architectural details like truss frames. Whether you're a history buff, a photographer chasing scenic spots, or a traveler seeking off-the-beaten-path journeys, this guide equips you with precise navigation tools and contextual background to deepen your appreciation. Chapters include a comprehensive index by town, making it easy to plan visits efficiently. It's a focused resource for anyone wanting to discover New Hampshire's covered bridges beyond surface-level travel.

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Best for personalized itinerary building
Hank O'Connor is a seasoned travel writer with extensive experience exploring New Hampshire. His passion for uncovering hidden gems and sharing local insights makes his guides invaluable for travelers seeking authentic experiences. This expertise shines through in his travel guide, which offers practical advice and curated itineraries that help you experience New Hampshire beyond the usual tourist spots.
New Hampshire: Travel Guide (English) (World Guides) book cover

by Hank O'Connor··You?

2023·77 pages·New Hampshire Travel Guide, New England Travel Guide, Travel, Local Exploration, Outdoor Activities

Unlike most travel guides that skim the surface, Hank O'Connor's extensive experience exploring New Hampshire infuses this book with genuine local insights. You get detailed itineraries tailored to interests like hiking in the White Mountains or exploring charming coastal towns such as Portsmouth. The guide delves into seasonal highlights, from vibrant fall foliage to serene lake activities, offering practical tips that only a seasoned traveler could provide. If you're after an authentic grasp of New Hampshire's natural beauty and culture, this book delivers a nuanced perspective rather than just surface-level suggestions.

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Conclusion

This collection of eight best-selling New Hampshire travel guides reveals three clear themes: a commitment to authentic, on-the-ground knowledge; a celebration of both popular and off-the-beaten-path destinations; and a blend of practical advice with cultural and historical context. If you prefer proven methods for planning your trip, start with Explorer's Guide New Hampshire and Fodor's Maine, Vermont & New Hampshire for broad coverage.

For validated approaches to nature exploration and local culture, pairing Birdwatching in New Hampshire with New Hampshire Off the Beaten Path® will deepen your experience. History enthusiasts and architecture lovers will find New Hampshire Covered Bridges a focused treasure. Alternatively, you can create a personalized New Hampshire Travel Guide book to combine proven methods with your unique needs, ensuring your travel plans fit your style perfectly.

These widely-adopted approaches have helped many travelers discover the Granite State's diverse charms and plan memorable journeys. Whether you're hiking, birdwatching, or savoring local culture, these books offer a solid foundation for your New Hampshire adventures.

Frequently Asked Questions

I'm overwhelmed by choice – which book should I start with?

Start with "Explorer's Guide New Hampshire" for a thorough overview and practical tips that suit most travelers. It offers a solid foundation before diving into more specialized guides like birdwatching or hiking.

Are these books suitable for someone new to New Hampshire travel?

Yes, books like "Fodor's Maine, Vermont & New Hampshire" and "GREATER THAN A TOURIST- PORTSMOUTH NEW HAMPSHIRE USA" provide accessible introductions with helpful regional insights and local tips, great for first-time visitors.

Can I skip around or do I need to read these books cover to cover?

You can definitely skip around. Each guide focuses on specific interests or regions, so you can pick chapters or sections that match your travel plans without reading everything front to back.

Which books focus more on practical travel advice versus cultural or historical context?

"Explorer's Guide 50 More Hikes in New Hampshire" and "Birdwatching in New Hampshire" emphasize practical outdoor activities, while "New Hampshire Covered Bridges" and "GREATER THAN A TOURIST- PORTSMOUTH NEW HAMPSHIRE USA" offer richer cultural and historical perspectives.

How long will it take me to get through these books?

Most books range from 100 to 500 pages, but since they're travel guides, you can use them as references as needed. Skimming key sections for your itinerary can take just a few hours.

Can personalized New Hampshire travel guides complement these expert books?

Absolutely! While these expert guides provide trusted frameworks, a personalized New Hampshire Travel Guide book can tailor recommendations to your unique interests and timing. Check out creating a personalized New Hampshire Travel Guide book for a custom experience.

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