All trails are currently CLOSED (live animal exhibit trail and hiking trails).
View of Squam Channel entering Squam Lake

Group Tours

At Squam Lakes Natural Science Center we are happy to create a group tour package tailored to your group's tastes and needs.

Groups consist of ten or more people from an established organization or agency; reservations are required.

To book your group tour contact Erick Amero, Operations Manager, at 603-968-7194 x 110 or email

Package Options

Discover Squam Cruise

Photo Courtesy Rich CzinaEnjoy a Science Center Lake Cruise to experience the beauty of Big Squam Lake and learn about the natural forces that created this lake, the wildlife that makes it so special, and the people who have enjoyed it for over 5,000 years. Binoculars are available for wildlife viewing.

  • Discover Squam Lake’s natural and cultural history
  • Loons and Bald Eagles — observe their beauty and see them in their natural habitat
  • Explore Squam Lake’s unique qualities and majestic features
  • Experience the dazzling array of colors during autumn
  • Four canopied pontoon boats with capacities ranging from 20 to 25 people

Available: Mid-May through mid-October
Cost: $30/person, allow 2 hours, driver and one tour operator complimentary


Live Animal Exhibit Trail

Mountain lionObserve live, native New Hampshire wildlife — black bears, bobcats, mountain lions, river otters, red foxes, bald eagles, hawks, owls, and more — housed in woodland enclosures as you walk along our ¾-mile self-guided exhibit trail. The trail winds through forest and field, and past streams and ponds. Enjoy interactive and educational exhibits as well.

Available: May 1 through November 1
Cost: $14/person, allow 2 hours, driver and one tour operator complimentary


Hike to the Summit of Mt. Fayal

For the adventuresome group, a hike to the summit of Mt. Fayal (elevation 1,067 feet) provides an excellent opportunity to see magnificent views of Squam Lake. The hike takes a minimum of one hour. On this mountainside, hikers will also find signs of past human activity, such as stone walls and cellar holes.

Admission fee is included in Exhibit Trail pass.


Natural Encounters

These Live Animal Programs, presented by a Science Center Naturalist, showcase native New Hampshire animals up-close. Capacity 80 persons. Select from the following:

Marvelous Mammals
Learn about this diverse group of creatures called mammals. Discover the characteristics they have in common as well as what sets them apart from each other and other animals.

Animals with Bad Reputations
The public image of some wild animals is often inaccurate and responsible for negative attitudes. Consider the good side of these creatures with us.

Owls of New Hampshire
Who calls in the night? Who glides through the dark on silent wings? Meet some of New Hampshire’s mysterious owls and learn what is myth and what is fact about these beautiful nocturnal birds.

New Hampshire Wildlife
Curious about the critters that inhabit the Granite State? Meet some of the wild animals you might see on a hike and learn what makes them suited for life in New England.

Available: Year Round
Cost: $20/person, allow 1.5 hours, driver and one tour operator complimentary


Stroll through Kirkwood Gardens

Kirkwood GardensTake a relaxing stroll and view over 75 plant species that attract birds and butterflies.

No admission is charged to enjoy Kirkwood Gardens.


Combination Tours
  • Lake Cruise and Exhibit Trail
    Cost: $39.00 per person, driver and one tour operator complimentary, allow 4 hours
  • Lake Cruise and Natural Encounter
    Cost: $45.00 per person, driver and one tour operator complimentary, allow 3.5 hours
  • Exhibit Trail and Natural Encounter
    Cost: $29.00 per person, driver and one tour operator complimentary, allow 3.5 hours
  • Lake Cruise and Exhibit Trail and Natural Encounter
    Cost: $59.00 per person, driver and one tour operator complimentary, allow 5 hours
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