Conway Lake, a jewel hidden amid the enchanting towns of Conway and Eaton, lies quietly to the east of the majestic White Mountains in New Hampshire. With dedicated conservation efforts and thoughtful building regulations, this lake will retain its serene and exclusive ambiance for years to come. Nestled under the watchful gaze of the White Mountains, Conway Lake grants its visitors and residents access to many exciting outdoor activities. Spanning a length of four miles and a width of nearly one and a half miles, Conway Lake sprawls across 1,316 acres in Carroll County. Fed primarily by Snowy Brook and drained by Mill Brook, a tributary of the Saco River, this natural lake was artificially expanded through dam construction in the early 1800s. Standing proudly at the north end of Conway Lake, the 200-foot-long, 17-foot-high earth embankment dam plays a crucial role in shaping the lake’s landscape. The story of Conway is intricately linked with its waterways. Historical records dating back to 1817 indicate ten diverse mills dotted around the shores of Conway Lake. The railroad’s arrival in 1865 heralded a period of increased prosperity, as loggers utilized the lake to transport logs to sawmills for processing and onward shipment. At present, both Conway and the neighboring town of Eaton offer a delightful array of shops, eateries, and outdoor gear suppliers to cater to every visitor’s needs.
Real estate options, including vacation rentals and residential developments, are available along the lake’s shoreline. While Conway Lake remains a well-kept secret, stringent regulations govern lakeside construction, ensuring that properties here are highly prized., Enthusiasts of boating, sailing, and waterskiing can access the lake via a public boat launch. Conway Lake is teeming with various fish species, such as rainbow trout, largemouth bass, and smallmouth bass, carefully managed by the New Hampshire Department of Fish and Game for landlocked salmon. Renowned for its exceptionally clean water quality, Conway Lake earns an oligo-mesotrophic classification. The lake offers public and private beaches for swimming enjoyment. A short scenic drive from Conway Lake brings you to the breathtaking White Mountain National Forest, stretching across parts of Maine and New Hampshire. Home to Mt. Washington, the loftiest peak east of the Mississippi River and north of the Smoky Mountains, this forest boasts an extensive network of biking and hiking trails and seasonal hunting and fishing opportunities. Campgrounds within the forest provide a range of overnight stay choices, while the picturesque Kancamagus Scenic Byway traverses through, treating travelers to stunning vistas and occasional wildlife sightings like moose. For adventurous souls, Tuckerman Ravine beckons with backcountry skiing possibilities, complementing the array of winter sports available in the White Mountain National Forest. To the west of Conway Lake lies the captivating Echo Lake State Park, offering a delightful day trip destination. Spanning 118 acres, this park provides ample hiking, biking, and fishing opportunities, with its claim to fame being the world-class rock climbing opportunities at Cathedral Ledge, towering 700 feet above Echo Lake. Embraced by the offerings of the White Mountains, Conway Lake is poised to captivate visitors for generations to come. Through mindful conservation practices and controlled development, this lake will remain a sanctuary where future generations can relish its beauty and tranquility.
