Hanover · Dartmouth College · The Upper Valley
We're so glad you're here! This guide gathers everything you need to settle in and explore Hanover, Dartmouth, and the surrounding Upper Valley — from getting around town to finding a great trail, a good meal, or a haircut.
Shuttles, buses & bikes on campus
Day trips, airports & car rentals
Farms, markets & outdoor fun
Summer dips in the Upper Valley
Summer only — always check conditions before you go.
| Spot | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Dartmouth Swim Dock | Only current Dartmouth ID holders may use the college swimming docks. |
| Wilson's Landing | Town-maintained public boat ramp on the Connecticut River in Hanover. Porta-potty on site; bring water and snacks; sit on the dock and jump in. No lifeguards. |
| Boston Lot | A short hike to a reservoir for a swim. Bring water and snacks — no facilities on site, no lifeguards. |
| Storrs Pond | Tennis, fishing, hiking, swimming, splash pad, watercraft rental, and camping. |
Summits, ledges & river trails
Just across the river in Norwich, VT, Gile Mountain is a popular trail for Dartmouth students. A six-story fire tower at the summit offers panoramic views, especially at sunrise and sunset. The summit is reached via a 0.68-mile trail. Check AllTrails before you go — the trail may close for mud season in spring to protect its biodiversity.
Located about three miles from Baker-Berry Library, Balch Hill is perfect for a sunrise hike. Ten routes lead to the 937-foot summit, ranging from easy to moderate and 0.3 to 1.0 miles. At the top you'll find an abandoned pasture full of flora and fauna, with views of Gile Mountain, Moose Mountain, and even Baker Tower.
Mink Brook Nature Preserve is a 112-acre wildlife preserve about a mile (roughly a 20-minute walk) south of Baker-Berry Library, just past Foley House. It offers walking trails, picnic spots, and fishing; bicycles aren't allowed, to protect wildlife habitat and water quality. It's a favorite first hike for newcomers to the Upper Valley.
Pine Park offers six miles of trails just past Occom Pond and the old Hanover Country Club golf course. The loop circles the pine-lined banks of the Connecticut River and is dotted with benches — perfect for watching the sunset or taking a break during a run.
In Plainfield, NH, French's Ledges is a great sunrise hike. After about eight miles, you'll reach a bald peak with a 360-degree panoramic view of the White Mountains to the east and the Green Mountains to the northwest. Expect old ski trails, small bridges, and an easy-to-moderate grade with one steep segment near the top.
In Grantham, NH, this 3.8-mile loop typically takes about 1.5 hours and is less crowded than other local hikes. The route follows snowmobile trails and passes Levitt Pond, which offers scenic views and, in spring, a chance to spot frog eggs.
About a half-hour drive from campus in Orange, NH, Cardigan's 3.1-mile route takes roughly two hours. At 3,121 feet, it offers panoramic views of Mount Monadnock, Pleasant Mountain, Camel's Hump, and the White Mountains. Before heading out, check trail conditions on AllTrails or the New England Conditions website.
Swim, climb & stay active indoors
Skiing, skating & snow days
Film, music, theater & museums
Stretch, breathe & unwind
Games, science & story time
Co-ops, markets & everyday essentials
Farm stands, maple syrup & creamees
The Upper Valley (the area spanning both sides of the Connecticut River around Hanover) is farm country, and visiting a local farm is one of the most beloved regional traditions. These small, working farms — many family-run for generations — sell what they grow or make directly to the public, often from a simple roadside stand. Most welcome visitors to walk the grounds and sample produce, cheese, and maple syrup on the spot.
| Farm | Address | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Sweetland Farm | 742 VT-132, Norwich, VT 05055 | Farm store & CSA with local produce, dairy, meat, and wild-caught fish. |
| Cedar Circle Farm & Education Center | 225 Pavillion Rd, East Thetford, VT 05043 | Organic farm stand and greenhouses, with pick-your-own produce and flowers in season. |
| Crossroad Farm | 671 W Fairlee Rd, Fairlee, VT 05045 | Farm stand with fresh vegetables, fruit, bread, cheese, and ice cream. |
| Sugarbush Farm | 591 Sugarbush Farm Rd, Woodstock, VT 05091 | Maple syrup & cheese — tastings, a scenic sap-line trail, and a farm store. |
| Mac's Maple | 259 River Rd, Plainfield, NH 03781 | A local favorite for maple creamees, made fresh with cream from the on-site dairy. |
Distances are approximate driving distances from the Dartmouth Green and may vary by route.
From diner classics to global flavors
| Distance | Restaurant | Location | Serving |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 mi — Norwich, VT | King Arthur Baking Company Café | 135 US-5, Norwich, VT 05055 | Breakfast, lunch |
| 4–5 mi — Lebanon, NH | Salt Hill Pub | 2 W Park St, Lebanon, NH 03766 | Lunch, dinner |
| 4–5 mi — Lebanon, NH | Three Tomatoes Trattoria | 1 Court St #100, Lebanon, NH 03766 | Lunch, dinner |
| 6–7 mi — White River Jct, VT | Tuckerbox | 1 S Main St, White River Junction, VT 05001 | Breakfast, lunch, dinner |
| 6–7 mi — White River Jct, VT | Cappadocia Café | 5 S Main St, White River Junction, VT 05001 | Breakfast, lunch |
| 6–7 mi — White River Jct, VT | Big Fatty's BBQ | 186 S Main St, White River Junction, VT 05001 | Lunch, dinner |
| 6–7 mi — White River Jct, VT | Redcan | 129 S Main St Ste 100, White River Junction, VT 05001 | Drinks & dinner |
| 6–7 mi — White River Jct, VT | Elixir | 188 S Main St, White River Junction, VT 05001 | Dinner |
| 6–7 mi — White River Jct, VT | Thyme | 85 N Main St, White River Junction, VT 05001 | Dinner |
| 10–11 mi — Lyme, NH | Stella's Italian Kitchen and Café | 5 Main St, Lyme, NH 03768 | Lunch, dinner, après-ski |
| 10–11 mi — Lyme, NH | Ariana's Restaurant | 1 Market St, Lyme, NH 03768 | Dinner |
| 11–12 mi — Quechee, VT | Simon Pearce | 1760 Quechee Main St, Quechee, VT 05059 | Lunch, dinner |
Everything for your dorm, home & trail
Banking, phones, medical & more
Many international visitors have found Bank of America in Hanover convenient for opening a U.S. account.
Welcome to the Upper Valley — we hope this guide helps you feel at home!
If you have questions about your visit or your appointment, please reach out to kalaniyot.dartmouth@gmail.com.