The White Mountains are home to many timeless traditions, but few are as sweet as maple sugaring. Every spring, locals and visitors alike gather to witness and celebrate the time-honored process of making pure New Hampshire maple syrup. One of the best places to experience this firsthand is at The Rocks in Bethlehem, where the Forest Society’s NH Maple Experience brings New England’s maple heritage to life.
Discover The Rocks
Nestled in the heart of the White Mountains, The Rocks is a 1,400-acre property owned by the Society for the Protection of New Hampshire Forests, often simply called the Forest Society. Known for its stunning landscapes, historic charm, and commitment to conservation, the Rocks has become a cherished destination for those who love nature and New Hampshire’s rural traditions. The estate offers breathtaking views, serene trails, and a working farm—all dedicated to educating and connecting people with New Hampshire’s natural and cultural heritage.
In addition to its scenic beauty, the Rocks Estate hosts the NH Maple Experience, a unique program that dives into the rich history and tradition of maple sugaring in New England.
The NH Maple Experience
The NH Maple Experience at the Rocks is more than just a tour—it’s a journey through the centuries-old craft of turning sap into syrup. The program, organized by the Forest Society, invites visitors of all ages to get a hands-on look at the entire maple sugaring process, from tree to table. Here’s what you can expect:
- Tapping Trees and Collecting Sap
Step into the sugar bush, a grove of sugar maple trees, and learn the traditional method of tapping trees to collect sap. Guides explain how sap flow changes with the seasons and why New Hampshire’s unique climate makes for some of the finest maple syrup in the world. - Sugar House Tours
In the estate’s historic sugar house, watch as the sap is boiled down into syrup. See the impressive evaporators in action and learn about the skill and precision needed to create maple syrup. The smell of sap boiling down into syrup is unforgettable, a warm, sweet aroma that signals the arrival of spring. - Interactive Exhibits and Tasting
The NH Maple Experience offers plenty of hands-on activities, including the chance to taste fresh maple syrup at various stages and sample maple treats. Visitors can enjoy syrup on fresh, fluffy pancakes, or try maple sugar candies and other traditional maple confections. - Horse-Drawn Wagon Rides
For those looking to immerse themselves even deeper in the rustic charm of the Rocks Estate, horse-drawn wagon rides are available. Ride through the scenic estate and enjoy panoramic views of the White Mountains as you learn about the property’s history and natural beauty. - Maple Syrup and Gift Shop
Don’t forget to stop by the gift shop to take a bit of New Hampshire home with you. The shop offers locally produced maple syrup and other maple products, as well as handmade items and gifts inspired by New Hampshire’s rural heritage.
Why Maple Sugaring Matters
Maple sugaring is more than just a seasonal activity—it’s a piece of New Hampshire’s identity. For generations, families have relied on sugaring as both a livelihood and a connection to the land. At the Rocks Estate, the Forest Society’s NH Maple Experience keeps that heritage alive, passing down traditions, teaching sustainable practices, and fostering a love for New England’s forests.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, young or old, the NH Maple Experience at the Rocks Estate is a memorable way to learn about New Hampshire’s culture and enjoy the bounty of its forests. Join us this sugaring season, and see why there’s nothing quite like maple in the White Mountains.
Plan Your Visit
For dates, hours, and ticket information, visit the official Forest Society website
A great experience for kids and adults alike! Photo courtesy of The Forest Society
