Belknap County is a county located in the U.S. state of New Hampshire. It is situated in the Lakes Region of the state and is bordered by Carroll, Grafton, Merrimack, and Strafford counties. Belknap County covers an area of 472 square miles with a population of 60,327 people as of 2019.
The county is named after Dr. Jeremy Belknap, a prominent historian and minister who wrote extensively about the region’s history and geography. According to photionary.com, the county was established in 1840 from parts of Strafford and Merrimack counties and has since become an important part of New Hampshire’s economy and culture.
The largest city in Belknap County is Laconia, which serves as the county seat. Other towns include Alton, Barnstead, Belmont, Center Harbor, Gilford, Meredith, Sanbornton, Tilton-Northfield, and Wolfeboro. The area is known for its many lakes including Lake Winnipesaukee which offers plenty of recreational activities such as swimming boating fishing kayaking canoeing sailing water skiing jet skiing tubing wakeboarding and more.
Belknap County also has several attractions that draw visitors from all over the region including Weirs Beach located on Lake Winnipesaukee; Funspot Family Entertainment Center; Castle in the Clouds; Squam Lakes Natural Science Center; Canterbury Shaker Village; Remick Country Doctor Museum & Farm; Ellacoya State Park; and much more.
Notable people from Belknap County include former Governor John H. Sununu who served three terms from 1983-1989; singer-songwriter Ray LaMontagne who was born in Nashua but lived most of his childhood in Gilford; actor Jack O’Connell best known for his roles on TV shows like “Lost” “Veronica Mars” “ER” “The OA” “Fargo” “Masters Of Sex” etc.; author Jodi Picoult who grew up in Tilton-Northfield; musician Steve Vai who attended high school at Nute High School in Meredith; comedian Sarah Silverman who was born in Bedford but grew up mostly in Laconia; author Dan Brown who graduated from Phillips Exeter Academy located near Exeter NH etc…
Belknap County offers something for everyone with its diverse attractions rich history beautiful scenery outdoor activities famous people and more. Whether you are looking for a relaxing weekend getaway or an exciting adventure this part of New Hampshire has it all.
Climate and weather in Belknap County, New Hampshire
According to act-test-centers.com, Belknap County, located in the south-central part of New Hampshire, has a climate that is typical of New England. The summers are mild and humid with temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to the mid-80s. Winters are cold, snowy, and often windy with temperatures ranging from the teens to around freezing. Snowfall averages around 55 inches per year but can be heavier in some areas. Spring and fall tend to be pleasant with temperatures ranging from the mid-40s to the mid-70s. The county experiences all four seasons each year, so it is important to dress accordingly for whatever weather may come your way. Rainfall amounts vary throughout Belknap County but generally range from 30 to 40 inches annually.
The county also experiences several different types of weather throughout the year. During stormy periods, thunderstorms can occur with heavy rain and lightning; however, tornadoes are rare in Belknap County. In winter months, cold air masses coming down from Canada can cause snow storms that bring significant amounts of snowfall and strong winds. During summer months, tropical storms can move up from the Gulf of Mexico bringing heavy rains and high winds as well as occasional flooding in low lying areas.
Transportation in Belknap County, New Hampshire
Belknap County in New Hampshire is served by a variety of transportation options. The county is served by two major airports, the Laconia Municipal Airport and the Manchester-Boston Regional Airport, located in nearby Manchester, NH. Both airports offer daily flights to domestic and international destinations. Those who prefer to travel by train can take advantage of Amtrak’s Downeaster service, which runs from Boston to Portland, Maine with stops in Laconia. Those who would prefer to drive can access Belknap County via Interstate 93 or the White Mountain Highway. There are also several public transportation options available for those who need it, such as the Laconia Area Transit System (LATS) and the Lakes Region Transportation Authority (LRTA). Both provide bus services throughout Belknap County as well as connecting routes to other parts of New Hampshire. Additionally, there are several taxi and ride-sharing services available throughout Belknap County. This provides convenient transportation for those who don’t have access to a car or don’t want to drive themselves.
Cities and towns in Belknap County, New Hampshire
Belknap County in New Hampshire is made up of numerous cities and towns. According to countryaah, the largest city in the county is Laconia, which is located on the southwestern shore of Lake Winnipesaukee and is home to a variety of attractions like the Weirs Beach Boardwalk and Funspot Family Fun Center. Other cities in Belknap County include Gilford, Meredith, Belmont, and Alton. These cities offer a variety of amenities such as shopping centers, restaurants, parks, museums, and more.
In addition to these larger cities, there are numerous small towns within Belknap County that offer a unique glimpse into New England life. These towns include Barnstead, Center Harbor, Gilmanton Iron Works, Moultonboro, Sanbornton, Tuftonboro, Wolfeboro Falls, and more. Each town has its own charm with historic buildings or picturesque scenery that make them worth visiting.
No matter where you are in Belknap County you will find something to do or see. From outdoor activities like hiking or skiing to cultural attractions like museums or art galleries there is something for everyone to enjoy. With its diverse landscape and friendly communities, Belknap County is an ideal place to visit or live for those looking for an authentic New England experience.
