Historic Markers – Page 28 – WANDERLUST FAMILY ADVENTURE

The run of NH Route 16 from Berlin, New Hampshire to Errol, New Hampshire follows the path of the Androscoggin River and provides great views of the river and numerous access points for canoes and kayaks. The trip is great any time of the year but is especially nice during fall foliage season.
As you snake your way up NH Route 16 stop in Gorham, New Hampshire for picnic items or fast food before heading further north.

New photo by Wanderlust Family Adventure / Google Photos

There is not much to see in the depressed town of Berlin, I suggest you drive by and continue north pass the paper mills on the river.

Take in the rural vistas along the river.

The Nansen Ski Jump Historic Site on the left of the road is an interesting stop. This is the first ski jump in America and has recently undergone refurbishing.

The Paul O. Bofinger Conservation Area has a large parking area and canoe access. In addition to this more developed access point there are dozens of pull offs suitable for putting in or picking up canoes.

The Androscoggin State Wayside is a nice place for a pleasant picnic or bathroom break.

Mollidgewock State Park is a great place to camp with wonderful sites right on the river.

Part of this drive encompasses the 13 Mile Woods Community Forest providing opportunities for hiking and camping in the area. From here you can stay in a number of state parks in the area, head further north to the northern forests or head back down to Berlin and North Conway.

In Exeter, New Hampshire The American Independence Museum contains two historic structures; The Ladd-Gilman House and The Folsom Tavern. The Ladd-Gilman House also known as Cincinnati Memorial Hall was built ~1721 by Captain Nathaniel Ladd. Ladd lived in the house until he sold it to relative Daniel Gilman in 1747. John Taylor Gilman had the honor of reading the Declaration of Independence on the steps of the Exeter Town House on July 16, 1776.
Look for the Historic Marker in downtown Exeter and find parking along the busy main street.

The Nansen Ski Jump built in 1937 as the first ski jump in America is located on NH Route 16 just north of the Berlin / Milan town line. The original ski jump has been the home of numerous competitions including four national championships. The jump has been in disrepair for years but starting in 2015 the local Nansen Ski Club has been fundraising to refurbish the jump and judge’s stand. On March 4, 2017 US olympian Sarah Hendrickson made the first jump in decades.

In 2016 the last part of the Exeter Great Dam was removed allowing free flow of the Exeter River. River Herring are now able to swim up the river for spawning. The waterfalls here were a gathering point for both Native Americans and colonialists. A series of dams were built and up kept for the next 369 years. The dam can be accessed from the Exeter Founders Park immediately adjacent to the dam site.