Squam Lake

LIforrelaxin · 12-21-2006, 01:05 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by gwood

Looks like I would launch in Holderness in the little river connecting Big Squam to Little Squam. That's a pretty small river, is that the best place to launch? From the pictures and maps, looks like it's only about 100ft wide at best and maybe 6 feet deep.

I am by no means a squam lake expert. But I believe that is the only true public launch site on the lake. I am sure someone on this forum though will know for sure

lifeonthefarm · 12-21-2006, 01:24 PM

I think you are right, the Squam Lakes Association has a launch, but I think its strictly sailboats... Squam is a beautiful lake if you are looking to get back to nature. No restaurants or entertainment (with the exception of Walter's Basin). The lake is VERY ROCKY so be alert, a lot of places similar to The Witches here, but not as well marked. The most activity will probably be in Rattlesnake Cove, a fun place to hang out with some good swimming. Its a beautiful lake, but I will take Winnipesaukee over it any day.

Resident 2B · 12-21-2006, 02:30 PM

Squam has more navigation hazards than anyone going for a one-day trip needs to deal with. Instead of doing this, there is a better way to get on the water and have a relaxing day on beautiful Squam Lake.

There are two business that provide boat rides to see the lake as well as the loons and other wildlife on the lake. Both are located in the Holdeness area, one right at Walter's.

I would do one in the morning, eat at Walter's, then do the other in the afternoon. This is much better than getting in trouble and meeting some of Squam's very hard rocks. Again, they are everywhere!

I have no connection to either tour provider or to Walter's. We did this several years ago when we were trying to decide where to buy in the lakes region and we really enjoyed the day.

Pick a good day and bring your camera!

R2B

Diver1111 · 12-21-2006, 05:12 PM

2 lane ramp in the river between Big & Little is public and as I recall, free. Motor boats no problem. Parking is free across the street for trailers and cars, but of course get there early. River is indeed about 6 feet deep, good for about any boat but you will not find any boats in Squam big enough to pull that kind of draft. Winni, yes.

2nd option might be the marina and ramp right where Little Squam drains into the Squam River heading to Ashland at the bridge down there. I don't remember if it's public or not but the main ramp in Holderness is fine if that is not an option. No other true public ramps that I know of anywhere on Squam.

If you can handle rocks + Winni, Squam shouldn't be a problem. But it is a bit trickier. Use your chart! MP is more prominent there than Winni due to size. Watch your step or they will appear from nowhere.

For a fun swim enter Rattlesnake Cove from the south/southwest channel, going in about 400 feet. On your left you'll see a nice flat faced rock about ten feet out of the water. Anchor in the pocket to the right of it, climb the rock and jump. Nice deep water in front of it.

For an easier swim, go to the Yard Islands, anchoring in the shallows around it facing north. Watch for the eagles around the "Yardies".

Walters in Holderness is nice for meals, free tie up in front when you're going there to eat.

12-21-2006, 02:30 PM	#3
Resident 2B Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2004 Location: North Shore, MA Posts: 1,358 Thanks: 996 Thanked 314 Times in 164 Posts	Squam Lake Cruises Squam has more navigation hazards than anyone going for a one-day trip needs to deal with. Instead of doing this, there is a better way to get on the water and have a relaxing day on beautiful Squam Lake. There are two business that provide boat rides to see the lake as well as the loons and other wildlife on the lake. Both are located in the Holdeness area, one right at Walter's. I would do one in the morning, eat at Walter's, then do the other in the afternoon. This is much better than getting in trouble and meeting some of Squam's very hard rocks. Again, they are everywhere! I have no connection to either tour provider or to Walter's. We did this several years ago when we were trying to decide where to buy in the lakes region and we really enjoyed the day. Pick a good day and bring your camera! R2B

12-21-2006, 05:12 PM	#4
Diver1111 Senior Member Join Date: Jun 2005 Location: Exeter NH Posts: 605 Thanks: 0 Thanked 1,032 Times in 227 Posts	Squam 2 lane ramp in the river between Big & Little is public and as I recall, free. Motor boats no problem. Parking is free across the street for trailers and cars, but of course get there early. River is indeed about 6 feet deep, good for about any boat but you will not find any boats in Squam big enough to pull that kind of draft. Winni, yes. 2nd option might be the marina and ramp right where Little Squam drains into the Squam River heading to Ashland at the bridge down there. I don't remember if it's public or not but the main ramp in Holderness is fine if that is not an option. No other true public ramps that I know of anywhere on Squam. If you can handle rocks + Winni, Squam shouldn't be a problem. But it is a bit trickier. Use your chart! MP is more prominent there than Winni due to size. Watch your step or they will appear from nowhere. For a fun swim enter Rattlesnake Cove from the south/southwest channel, going in about 400 feet. On your left you'll see a nice flat faced rock about ten feet out of the water. Anchor in the pocket to the right of it, climb the rock and jump. Nice deep water in front of it. For an easier swim, go to the Yard Islands, anchoring in the shallows around it facing north. Watch for the eagles around the "Yardies". Walters in Holderness is nice for meals, free tie up in front when you're going there to eat.

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12-21-2006, 01:24 PM	#2
lifeonthefarm Junior Member Join Date: Jul 2006 Posts: 17 Thanks: 0 Thanked 0 Times in 0 Posts	I think you are right, the Squam Lakes Association has a launch, but I think its strictly sailboats... Squam is a beautiful lake if you are looking to get back to nature. No restaurants or entertainment (with the exception of Walter's Basin). The lake is VERY ROCKY so be alert, a lot of places similar to The Witches here, but not as well marked. The most activity will probably be in Rattlesnake Cove, a fun place to hang out with some good swimming. Its a beautiful lake, but I will take Winnipesaukee over it any day.