These Two New Hampshire Lakes Are Superior to Lake Winnipesaukee

When New Englanders think of lakes in New Hampshire, only one comes to mind - Lake Winnipesaukee.

Sure, Winnipesaukee is the largest lake in New Hampshire, and beautiful - no doubt.

But is it the most beautiful? Don't get angry Winni-people....no. It is not.

Now this is OBVIOUSLY up for interpretation, as everyone is entitled to their own opinions; however, an Architectural Digest article claimed a different lake in New Hampshire as the most beautiful.

According to AD, the most beautiful lake in New Hampshire is Echo Lake in Echo Lake State Park, near North Conway, NH.

Don't shoot the messenger Winnipesaukee people, this was claimed by Architectural Digest (although I partially agree).

With a backdrop of White Horse Ledge and Cathedral Ledge, this lake in New Hampshire is stunning, clear, and perhaps more beautiful than Winni.

There is a second lake, however, that I think is also superior to Lake Winnipesaukee: Lonesome Lake.

Lonesome Lake is on the other side of the White Mountains, in Franconia Notch - about an hour west of Echo Lake.

Lonesome Lake is serene. Not to say Winnipesaukee is not; however, with the number of people, water skiers, and boats on Winnipesaukee, Lonesome and Echo Lake are both far more tranquil.

Lonesome and Echo Lake both have, in my opinion, FAR BETTER backdrops and offer a more peaceful day in the heart of the White Mountains. And I think a backdrop around a lake is just as important as the clarity of the water.

I'm sure I'll get flack for this take but I do think the backdrop in the White Mountains (Lonesome and Echo Lake) is just better than what Lake Winnipesaukee offers.

Bottom line, to each their own.

All of the gorgeous lakes in New Hampshire offer different perks. Winnipesaukee is enormous. Plenty of room to take a boat out and ride on some toys. Other lakes offer better/different mountain views.

What is your favorite New Hampshire lake?