New Hampshire Best Local Secrets 2012

BEST PATH LESS TAKEN
Pumpelly Trail,Dublin
Mount Monadnock is one of the Northeast’s most popular mountains with hikers, and most folks flock to its White Dot or White Arrow Trail. For a different experience, strike out on less-traveled terrain along the Pumpelly Trail, the longest direct path to the summit, at 4.4 miles. East Lake Road. 603-532-8862; nhstateparks.org

BEST SMALL BOOKSHOP
Sheafe Street Books, Portsmouth
A good bookshop is a cozy bookshop–and Ken Kozick’s place fits the bill. Housed on the first floor of his downtown home, the store, now in its third year, offers a diverse collection of new titles, used books, collectibles, and a section of finds devoted to “Ye Old New England Stuff.” The large, comfy leather chair in the corner only adds to the draw. 29 Sheafe St. 603-498-4696

BEST FRENCH BAKERY
Le Rendez Vous French Bakery,Colebrook
Fine French bread and assorted Parisian delicacies might not be what you expect in the Great North Woods, but that’s what you’ll find at this cozy bakery–along with almond croissants, madeleines, chocolate-cranberry crullers, and apple tarts. 121 Main St. 603-237-5150; lerendezvousbakerynh.com

BEST PERFORMING-ARTS VENUE
The Music Hall Loft, Portsmouth
Tucked around the corner from The Music Hall’s historic theater, the Loft offers similar programming (theater, cabaret, music, dance, poetry) in a more intimate setting. Even better, you can sample gourmet food and cocktails here. 28 Chestnut St. 603-436-2400; themusichall.org

BEST DIY PIZZA NIGHT
Orchard Hill Breadworks, East Alstead
Every Tuesday during the summer, pizza enthusiasts may bring their own toppings, while Orchard Hill provides the crust, a pot of sauce, and cheese for $5. 121 Old Settlers Road. 603-835-7845; orchardhillbreadworks.com