Gilford Live Cam
Overlooking Gunstock's Base Area at Gilford
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Gilford History
Gilford is a town located in Belknap County, New Hampshire, on the southern shore of Lake Winnipesaukee. The town was first settled in the 1770s and was officially incorporated in 1812.
In the early years of Gilford's history, the town was primarily agricultural, with residents raising crops and livestock to support themselves. The town's location on Lake Winnipesaukee also made it a popular spot for fishing and boating.
In the late 1800s and early 1900s, Gilford began to experience an influx of summer visitors, who came to enjoy the lake and the natural beauty of the region. Many of these visitors built summer cottages and hotels along the shoreline, which helped to boost the local economy.
During World War II, Gilford played a role in the war effort, with local residents supporting the war through various initiatives, such as scrap drives and Victory Gardens.
In the post-war years, Gilford continued to grow and develop, with new businesses and homes being built in the town. Today, Gilford is a thriving community with a population of over 7,000 people. The town is home to a variety of businesses, including restaurants, shops, and tourist attractions, as well as several parks and recreational facilities. Overall, Gilford's history reflects the town's connection to Lake Winnipesaukee and the natural beauty of the region, as well as its ability to adapt and grow over time to meet the needs of its residents and visitors.
Gilford Top Tourist Attractions
Gilford, New Hampshire is a popular tourist destination due to its scenic location on the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee and its proximity to the White Mountains. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Gilford:
- Lake Winnipesaukee - As the largest lake in New Hampshire, Lake Winnipesaukee offers a wide variety of recreational opportunities, including swimming, boating, fishing, and kayaking. Visitors can also enjoy scenic cruises on the lake.
- Gunstock Mountain Resort - Gunstock Mountain Resort is a popular year-round destination for outdoor enthusiasts. In the winter, visitors can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and tubing, while in the summer, the resort offers ziplining, mountain biking, and other outdoor activities.
- Bank of New Hampshire Pavilion - This outdoor concert venue hosts a variety of concerts and events throughout the summer months, featuring a range of musical genres and performers.
- Ellacoya State Park - Located on the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee, Ellacoya State Park offers a sandy beach, picnic areas, and a boat launch for visitors to enjoy.
- Weirs Beach - Weirs Beach is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and people-watching, with a boardwalk, arcade, and other attractions nearby.
- Belknap Mountain State Forest - This state forest offers hiking trails, scenic views, and other outdoor recreational opportunities.
- The Loon Center - This nonprofit organization is dedicated to the conservation of loons and other water birds. Visitors can learn about the birds and their habitats, as well as take part in educational programs and guided tours.
Overall, Gilford offers a range of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy, making it a popular destination for tourists exploring the Lakes Region of New Hampshire.
Gilford Climate
Gilford, New Hampshire experiences a humid continental climate, with cold winters and warm summers. The town is located in the Lakes Region of New Hampshire, which is known for its scenic beauty and abundant natural resources, including Lake Winnipesaukee.
In the winter months, temperatures in Gilford can drop below freezing, with an average high temperature in January of around 32°F (0°C) and an average low temperature of around 12°F (-11°C). Snow is common during the winter, with an average annual snowfall of around 70 inches (178 cm).
In the summer, temperatures in Gilford can be warm and humid, with an average high temperature in July of around 80°F (27°C) and an average low temperature of around 58°F (14°C). Thunderstorms are common in the summer, particularly in the afternoon and evening.
Fall is a popular time to visit Gilford, as the region is known for its beautiful fall foliage. The autumn months are typically cool and dry, with an average high temperature in October of around 57°F (14°C) and an average low temperature of around 34°F (1°C). Overall, Gilford's climate is characterized by distinct seasonal changes, with cold and snowy winters, warm and humid summers, and cool and dry autumns. Visitors to the region should be prepared for a variety of weather conditions, depending on the time of year.
Gilford Geography
The town is situated on the southern shore of Lake Winnipesaukee and is bordered by the towns of Laconia to the north, Gilmanton to the east, Alton to the south, and Meredith to the west.
The town of Gilford covers an area of approximately 50 square miles (130 square kilometers), with a varied geography that includes forests, lakes, and mountains. The town's highest point is Gunstock Mountain, which stands at 2,245 feet (684 meters) above sea level and is located in the southeastern part of the town.
Lake Winnipesaukee is a prominent feature of Gilford's geography, with the town's southern boundary running along the lake's shoreline. The lake covers an area of approximately 72 square miles (186 square kilometers) and is the largest lake in New Hampshire. In addition to Lake Winnipesaukee, Gilford is also home to several other smaller lakes and ponds, including Lake Waukewan and Manning Lake.
The Belknap Mountain Range runs through the western part of Gilford, offering scenic views and opportunities for hiking and other outdoor activities. The range includes several peaks, including Mount Rowe, Piper Mountain, and Belknap Mountain itself. Overall, Gilford's geography is characterized by its location on the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee, its varied terrain, and its abundance of natural resources, which have made it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and tourists exploring.
