UPDATED 04/18/2025
It’s National Take a Hike Day! This post follows up the last post so well because it’s one of the stress management tips I recommended.

Years ago, one of my absolute, all-time favorite things to do was to take a hike. Whether it’s just a small path or a mountain that you’re climbing, hiking is great for your physical, emotional and mental state. If you haven’t noticed, the air is so much more clean and fresh when you’re in the mountains.
While I haven’t had a chance to go for a hike in quite some time, in celebration of the pseudo-holiday, I wanted to share with you my favorite hiking spots.
- Mount Agamenticus, York Maine – this mountain features almost 30,000 acres and is dog-friendly. There is a road that leads all the way to the top and there are multiple trails off the peak. The views from the top are beautiful and a must-see!
- Mount Major, Alton, New Hampshire – with a great view of Lake Winnipesaukee, this mountain is worth venturing out to. The main trails are around 1.5 miles, are great for anyone of any age and are dog friendly.
- Purgatory Chasm, Sutton, Massachusetts – this geologic reserve offers fun rock formations like The Coffin and Lovers’ Leap. Although it can be challenging when wet, it is worth the trek. Dogs are welcome too.
- Mount Tom, Holyoke, Massachusetts – located in Western Massachusetts, this hiking spot is great for bird watching, a quiet walk in the woods and a family picnic. This spot is dog-friendly too.
- Ellisville Harbor State Park, Plymouth, Massachusetts – if you’re looking for a short coastal trail, this might be the one. The trail leads through the woods to a beach. Dogs are welcome, but only September 16th through May 31st.
If you have a favorite place to go hiking, let me know! I’d love to explore new places.
