The properties comprising Squam Lake were gifted to the University of New Hampshire (UNH) between 1965 and 1967 to make the area available for education and research while also maintaining the recreational use of the property.

Hosting one of UNH’s three natural areas, Squam offers many recreational opportunities. These are referenced in most local and regional recreation and hiking guides. A popular hiking trail runs from nearby rt 113 up to the top of West Rattlesnake Mountain. This trail offers excellent views of Squam Lake and the surrounding area. Another trail offers visitors a chance to walk around the Five Finger Point, one of the many unique peninsulas that protrude out into the lake.

Widely known as the filming location for On Golden Pond, Squam Lake is a quieter summertime destination in the Lakes Region of New Hampshire that sits just south of the White Mountains and northwest of Lake Winnipesaukee. Squam Lake serves as a nesting site for loons, bald eagles, and great blue herons; it’s also home to a plethora of fish species, including trout, salmon, bass, pickerel, and perch. Dotted with about 30 islands and several unnamed islets, it drains via a channel into Little Squam Lake. There’s a sense of natural serenity here, but that doesn’t mean there’s nothing to do. Squam is surrounded by four lively Lakes Region towns, ensuring that visitors will find plenty of things to do, places to stay, and eateries to check out.

The AllTrails website has a description and map of a hike at Five Finger Point Natural Area.

Five Finger Point Trail is a 2.7-mile moderately trafficked loop trail that features a lake and is rated as moderate. The trail is primarily used for hiking, walking, nature trips, and birding and is best used from March until October. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on a leash.

Please note there is no designated parking at this trailhead. There is designated parking for the Rattlesnakes Mountains several miles up the road. This trail can be accessed via other trails in West Rattlesnake Nature Area.