In 1793, a band of Shakers stumbled upon the picturesque realm nestled amidst the embrace of the serene Mascoma Lake and the towering Mount Assurance, dubbing it the revered “Chosen Vale.” They settled upon the tranquil shores of the lake, erecting the ninth of the storied Shaker communities. Though the Shakers have long departed, the enchanting valley still thrives with its pristine, crystalline waters, beckoning visitors to revel in the allure of this gem in western New Hampshire. Mascoma Lake, situated within the Dartmouth–Lake Sunapee region, is a delightful haven for fishing, boating, sailing, and relishing the unspoiled splendor of the beloved “Chosen Vale.” Stretching across four and a quarter miles in length and slightly over half a mile in width, Mascoma Lake blankets 1,114 acres in the heart of Grafton County. The Knox and Mascoma Rivers provide the majority of the lake’s water, which has an average depth of 30 feet and a maximum depth of 68 feet. Flowing gracefully from the lake, the Mascoma River serves as its primary outlet, while a dam at the northern tip controls its water levels. The New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services oversees the regulation of the lake’s water levels, ensuring the preservation of this natural haven. Annually, water levels are lowered by three feet post Columbus Day, rising back to full pool level by the first of June. Mascoma Lake is periodically stocked with rainbow trout, carp, yellow perch, white perch, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, and black crappie by the New Hampshire Department of Fish and Game. As winter descends upon the area, the lake freezes, enabling passionate fishermen to experience the excitement of ice fishing. Access to the lake is facilitated through a convenient boat ramp at the lake’s northern end. Mascoma Lake is a favored spot for recreational activities, offering ample space for boating, sailing, water skiing, and exploring three quaint islands by canoe or kayak.
The vibrant Dartmouth College sailing and canoe clubs frequent Mascoma Lake and the adjoining Mascoma River for practice and events. Enfield maintains a public beach along the lake shore for leisurely swims. Nestled in Enfield and bordering Lebanon, Mascoma Lake has a long history that began with its charter in 1761 from Benning Wentworth, the Royal Governor of the Province of New Hampshire. Following this, the Shakers arrived approximately three decades later, establishing a thriving village on the western fringe of Mascoma Lake. At its zenith, the Shaker community boasted around 300 members who practiced celibacy, equality of the genders, and pacifism. By 1850, the Shakers tended to nearly 3,000 acres of land surrounding the lake. They stayed until 1923, when they turned over the area to the LaSalettes, a Catholic priest order that stayed there until 1985.
Presently, the imposing Great Stone Dwelling, hailed as the largest Shaker dwelling, remains the centerpiece of the Enfield Shaker Museum, offering visitors a glimpse into the Shaker way of life through its artifacts, gardens, and informational displays. The summit of the Shaker Feast Ground treats visitors to breathtaking views of Mascoma Lake and the historic village nestled beside its tranquil waters. To the southern expanse of Mascoma Lake resides the sprawling Enfield Wildlife Management Area (WMA), encompassing 3,062 acres across Grafton and Sullivan Counties. This nature sanctuary is home to a variety of animals, including moose, white-tailed deer, ruffed grouse, black bears, and wild turkeys. Its woodlands are interspersed with ponds. The natural beauty of the area is enhanced by the variety of ducks that call Mascoma Lake and the wildlife area home. The shores of Mascoma Lake are adorned with vacation rentals and cozy cottages while real estate opportunities await prospective buyers. Mascoma Lake is an idyllic retreat within the Dartmouth- – Lake Sunapee environs, whether for a fleeting weekend escape or an enduring stay. Maintaining its allure with the same natural splendor and pristine, fish-rich waters that once captivated the Shakers in their designated “Chosen Vale,” Mascoma Lake continues to enchant visitors for generations.