Located in the heart of New Hampshire’s Lakes Region, Ashland is a beautiful town that embodies the quintessential charm of New England. Situated along the shores of the Squam Lakes, Ashland offers residents and visitors alike stunning views of pristine lakes, rolling hills, and lush forests. With a population of approximately 2,000 residents, Ashland maintains a close-knit community atmosphere while providing easy access to outdoor recreation, cultural attractions, and historical landmarks. The town’s rich history dates back to the 19th century, when it was a bustling mill town known for its thriving industries and scenic beauty. Today, Ashland continues to captivate with its scenic landscapes, vibrant arts scene, and small-town hospitality, making it a cherished destination for nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a tranquil retreat in the heart of New Hampshire.
Climate and Weather Overview
Ashland, New Hampshire, experiences a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons characterized by cold winters and warm summers. Located inland from the New England coast, Ashland’s climate is influenced by its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean and the Appalachian Mountains. The town enjoys ample precipitation throughout the year, with snowfall in the winter months and occasional thunderstorms in the summer. Below is a table detailing the average temperature, precipitation, and sunny days for each month in Ashland.
Climate Data Table
| Month | Average Temperature (°F) | Precipitation (inches) | Sunny Days |
| January | 25 | 2.90 | 10 |
| February | 27 | 2.47 | 11 |
| March | 35 | 3.36 | 12 |
| April | 46 | 3.58 | 14 |
| May | 58 | 4.03 | 15 |
| June | 67 | 4.10 | 16 |
| July | 73 | 4.08 | 16 |
| August | 72 | 3.82 | 15 |
| September | 64 | 3.59 | 14 |
| October | 53 | 3.76 | 12 |
| November | 42 | 3.74 | 11 |
| December | 31 | 3.23 | 10 |
Weather by Month
January
January in Ashland brings cold temperatures and snowy conditions, as winter takes hold of the region. The average temperature in January is 25°F (-3.9°C), with highs typically in the 20s°F (around -6 to -3°C) and lows dropping below zero. January is one of the snowiest months of the year, with an average precipitation of 2.90 inches (73.7 mm), most of which falls as snow. Despite the chilly weather, January offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing in the nearby White Mountains.
Natural Disasters:
- Potential for blizzards and heavy snowfall, leading to hazardous travel conditions and snow accumulation.
- Occasional risk of ice storms and freezing rain, causing slick roads and power outages.
Recommended Activities:
- Hit the slopes at nearby ski resorts, such as Waterville Valley and Loon Mountain, for a day of winter sports and adventure.
- Explore local trails for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, taking in the serene beauty of snow-covered forests and frozen lakes.
- Cozy up by the fireplace with a good book or enjoy a hot beverage at a local cafe, savoring the warmth indoors.
February
February in Ashland continues the trend of cold temperatures and snowy weather, as winter persists in the region. The average temperature in February is 27°F (-2.8°C), with highs in the 20s°F (around -3 to -5°C) and lows remaining below freezing. February is another snowy month, with an average precipitation of 2.47 inches (62.7 mm), contributing to the town’s winter wonderland atmosphere. Despite the wintry conditions, February offers opportunities for outdoor recreation and indoor activities, making it an enjoyable time to experience the beauty of the season.
Natural Disasters:
- Continued risk of blizzards and heavy snowfall, leading to travel disruptions and school closures.
- Potential for ice dams and roof collapses due to the weight of accumulated snow and ice.
Recommended Activities:
- Take a scenic drive along snow-covered roads and enjoy views of the surrounding mountains and forests blanketed in white.
- Embark on a wildlife watching tour to spot native animals such as deer, moose, and snowy owls in their winter habitats.
- Attend local events and festivals celebrating winter traditions, such as ice carving competitions and snow sculpture contests.
March
March in Ashland marks the transition from winter to spring, with gradually warming temperatures and melting snow. The average temperature in March is 35°F (1.7°C), with highs reaching the mid-30s°F (around 1-3°C) and lows beginning to rise above freezing. While March still sees some snowfall, particularly in the early part of the month, the days grow longer, and signs of spring begin to emerge. March is a dynamic month of transition, offering a mix of winter activities and early hints of springtime beauty.
Natural Disasters:
- Potential for late-season snowstorms and Nor’easters, bringing heavy snow and gusty winds to the region.
- Occasional risk of flooding as melting snow and spring rain combine to swell rivers and streams.
Recommended Activities:
- Explore local trails for snowshoeing and winter hiking, enjoying the last of the season’s snowy landscapes.
- Visit sugarhouses and maple farms to learn about the process of maple sugaring and sample freshly made maple syrup and maple candies.
- Participate in community clean-up efforts and environmental initiatives to prepare for the arrival of spring.
April
April in Ashland brings warmer temperatures and the promise of spring, as the town emerges from the grip of winter. The average temperature in April is 46°F (7.8°C), with highs in the mid-40s°F (around 7-9°C) and lows rising above freezing. While April is one of the wettest months of the year, with an average precipitation of 3.58 inches (91.0 mm), occasional rain showers bring much-needed moisture to the awakening landscape. With longer daylight hours and milder weather, April offers abundant opportunities for outdoor activities and enjoying the natural beauty of the region.
Natural Disasters:
- Potential for early-season thunderstorms bringing lightning, hail, and gusty winds.
- Occasional risk of flooding as melting snow and spring rainfall saturate the ground and overwhelm drainage systems.
Recommended Activities:
- Take nature walks and wildflower hikes in local parks and nature reserves to admire spring blooms and budding trees.
- Plant gardens, flower beds, and vegetable patches to take advantage of the warming weather and longer growing season.
- Participate in Earth Day events, clean-up projects, and environmental initiatives promoting conservation and sustainability in the community.
May
May in Ashland brings warmer temperatures and blooming flowers, as spring reaches its peak in the region. The average temperature in May is 58°F (14.4°C), with highs ranging from the mid-50s°F (around 12-14°C) to the mid-60s°F (around 17-19°C) and lows in the 30s°F (around 1-3°C). May is one of the wettest months of the year, with an average precipitation of 4.03 inches (102.4 mm), but rainfall is often interspersed with periods of sunshine. With longer daylight hours and comfortable temperatures, May is an ideal time for outdoor adventures and exploring the natural beauty of the region.
Natural Disasters:
- Potential for severe thunderstorms bringing heavy rain, lightning, and strong winds.
- Occasional risk of tornadoes and damaging hailstorms, particularly in late spring.
Recommended Activities:
- Go hiking or biking on local trails and enjoy picnics in scenic parks and recreation areas.
- Take boat tours or kayak adventures on nearby rivers and lakes and explore their rich ecosystems and wildlife.
- Participate in outdoor festivals, art shows, and garden tours celebrating the beauty of spring in the region.
June
June in Ashland brings warm temperatures and sunny days, marking the beginning of summer in the region. The average temperature in June is 67°F (19.4°C), with highs ranging from the mid-60s°F (around 18-20°C) to the low 70s°F (around 21-23°C) and lows in the 40s°F (around 4-7°C). While June receives less rainfall than previous months, occasional showers and thunderstorms are still possible, with an average precipitation of 4.10 inches (104.1 mm). With longer days and pleasant weather, June offers abundant opportunities for outdoor activities and summer fun.
Natural Disasters:
- Potential for severe thunderstorms bringing heavy rain, lightning, and strong winds.
- Occasional risk of flash flooding in low-lying areas and along rivers and streams.
Recommended Activities:
- Explore local parks and recreation areas for hiking, biking, and picnicking with family and friends.
- Visit nearby lakes and reservoirs for swimming, boating, and fishing in the summer sun.
- Attend outdoor concerts, food festivals, and community events celebrating the start of summer.
July
July in Ashland brings hot temperatures and sunny skies, as summer reaches its peak in the region. The average temperature in July is 73°F (22.8°C), with highs ranging from the mid-70s°F (around 23-25°C) to the low 80s°F (around 27-29°C) and lows in the 50s°F (around 10-13°C). July is one of the driest months of the year, with an average precipitation of 4.08 inches (103.6 mm), allowing residents and visitors to enjoy long days of sunshine and outdoor activities. Whether it’s swimming, hiking, or attending local events, July offers plenty of opportunities to make the most of the summer season.
Natural Disasters:
- Potential for heatwaves and high temperatures, leading to increased risk of heat-related illnesses.
- Occasional risk of severe thunderstorms and heavy rainfall, particularly in the afternoon and evening hours.
Recommended Activities:
- Cool off at local swimming pools, water parks, and splash pads to beat the summer heat.
- Take evening strolls and enjoy outdoor dining at local restaurants and cafes.
- Attend Fourth of July celebrations, fireworks displays, and summer concerts in the community.
August
August in Ashland continues the trend of hot temperatures and sunny days, as summer reaches its peak in the region. The average temperature in August is 72°F (22.2°C), with highs ranging from the mid-70s°F (around 23-25°C) to the low 80s°F (around 27-29°C) and lows in the 50s°F (around 10-13°C). While August is one of the driest months of the year, occasional showers and thunderstorms may occur, with an average precipitation of 3.82 inches (97.0 mm). Despite the summer heat, August offers a variety of outdoor activities and events for residents and visitors to enjoy.
Natural Disasters:
- Potential for heatwaves and high temperatures, leading to increased risk of heat exhaustion and dehydration.
- Occasional risk of severe thunderstorms bringing heavy rain, lightning, and strong winds.
Recommended Activities:
- Spend time outdoors at local parks, beaches, and nature reserves, enjoying hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing.
- Attend county fairs, agricultural festivals, and outdoor concerts celebrating the summer harvest.
- Plan day trips to nearby attractions, such as amusement parks, zoos, and botanical gardens, for family-friendly fun.
September
September in Ashland marks the transition from summer to fall, with cooler temperatures and changing foliage as autumn approaches. The average temperature in September is 64°F (17.8°C), with highs in the low to mid-60s°F (around 17-19°C) and lows in the 40s°F (around 4-7°C). While September is one of the drier months of the year, occasional showers and thunderstorms may occur, with an average precipitation of 3.59 inches (91.2 mm). With the arrival of fall, September offers opportunities for outdoor activities, harvest celebrations, and enjoying the beauty of the changing seasons.
Natural Disasters:
- Potential for early-season frost and cool temperatures, leading to the end of the growing season for crops and plants.
- Occasional risk of severe thunderstorms and windstorms, particularly as cold fronts move through the region.
Recommended Activities:
- Take scenic drives along country roads and explore rural communities adorned with fall foliage and harvest decorations.
- Visit local orchards, pumpkin patches, and farmers’ markets to stock up on fresh produce and seasonal treats.
- Attend fall festivals, craft fairs, and agricultural events celebrating the bounty of the season.
October
October in Ashland brings cooler temperatures, falling leaves, and the vibrant colors of autumn as the town embraces the beauty of the season. The average temperature in October is 53°F (11.7°C), with highs in the low to mid-50s°F (around 10-13°C) and lows dropping into the 30s°F (around 1-3°C). While October is one of the drier months of the year, occasional showers and thunderstorms may occur, with an average precipitation of 3.76 inches (95.5 mm). With the arrival of autumn, October offers opportunities for outdoor activities, harvest celebrations, and spooky fun for all ages.
Natural Disasters:
- Potential for early-season snowfall and frost, leading to the end of the growing season.
- Occasional risk of severe thunderstorms and windstorms, particularly as cold fronts move through the region.
Recommended Activities:
- Explore local pumpkin patches, corn mazes, and apple orchards for family-friendly fall fun.
- Take scenic drives along country roads and explore rural communities adorned with fall decorations.
- Attend Halloween events, haunted houses, and ghost tours for spooky thrills and festive entertainment.
November
November in Ashland brings cooler temperatures, falling leaves, and the transition to winter as autumn reaches its end. The average temperature in November is 42°F (5.6°C), with highs in the low 40s°F (around 4-7°C) and lows dropping below freezing. While November is one of the drier months of the year, occasional showers and snow showers may occur, with an average precipitation of 3.74 inches (95.0 mm). With the holiday season approaching, November offers opportunities for outdoor activities, harvest celebrations, and giving thanks for the blessings of the year.
Natural Disasters:
- Potential for early-season cold fronts bringing cooler temperatures and frost, leading to the end of the growing season.
- Occasional risk of severe thunderstorms and windstorms, particularly as cold fronts move through the region.
Recommended Activities:
- Take scenic drives through rural countryside and enjoy the last of the fall foliage before winter sets in.
- Prepare for the holiday season by shopping for gifts, decorations, and seasonal treats at local shops and markets.
- Participate in volunteer efforts to support those in need during the holiday season.