Take An Easy Loop Trail To Enter Another World At Madame Sherri Forest In New Hampshire

Getting lost in the forest is every kid’s dream! Especially when the exploration to do it means stumbling upon the ruins of a former castle! This hike through a wooded area in New Hampshire will let you re-live your childhood dreams. The route is easy, allowing you to focus on things like the land around you and the payoff is the magical castle in the forest that locals know and love.

Head to West Chestefield to explore the Ann Stokes Loop Trail, a 2.3-mile hiking trail leading the Madame Sherri Forest. This is where you’ll find the castle that this area is known for.

Rita de Cássia / alltrails.com To find it, head to the intersection of Gulf and Egypt Roads. You’ll want to make sure your GPS is on to help guide you.

As with so many of the hikes in New Hampshire, the route is beautiful. You’ll find yourself stopping along the way to take in the surroundings, but keep moving so you can get to the fun final destination!

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As you follow the trail, you’ll eventually come to a split. Here you’ll take a right to find the ruins of the castle.

Jody Parker-Matt / alltrails.com

Why is there a castle hidden in the New Hampshire woods? The structure dates back to the 1920s when Antoinette Sherri built it to entertain the New York City friends she amassed while working in costume design there.

James Catalfamo / alltrails.com

She is said to have thrown lavish parties which became a destination for those in the New York City theater scene. These parties were similar to what you might imagine took place at The Great Gatsby soirees!

Deric Dymerski / alltrails.com

Unfortunately, Madame Sherri’s money soon ran out and she was forced to move. In 1962 it burned to the ground, leaving just the elements that are visible today.

Adam Gagnon / alltrails.com

The staircase might be the most recognizable and it makes for some great photo ops!

Jamie Lynn / alltrails.com

After enjoying the woods, you’ll head back along the looped trail to arrive at the parking area.

Meredith Starr / alltrails.com

Be sure to enjoy the views on your way back as well. This is one of the most lovely ways to spend a day in New Hampshire!

Darleen Frances / alltrails.com

For another great experience in the outdoors consider hiking to this fire tower with stunning panoramic views at Mount Kearsarge North in New Hampshire.

Rita de Cássia / alltrails.com

To find it, head to the intersection of Gulf and Egypt Roads. You’ll want to make sure your GPS is on to help guide you.