MONADNOCK REGION, N.H. (MyKeeneNow) — You don’t have to climb Mount Monadnock to enjoy some of the best scenery the region has to offer in the fall.

The Monadnock Region has trails ranging from short, relatively gentle walks to strenuous mountain hikes, giving hikers plenty of choices as the leaves begin changing.

New Hampshire’s latest foliage report puts the Monadnock Region at roughly 5-15% color change, with scattered yellow and orange appearing among mostly green hillsides. More widespread color is expected over the next couple of weeks.

Here are seven places to consider.

Rhododendron State Park — Fitzwilliam

Rhododendron State Park is better known for its summer rhododendron display, but its wooded trails also offer a quieter way to experience the changing season.

A 0.6-mile universally accessible trail loops around the park’s 16-acre rhododendron grove. The park is at 424 Rockwood Pond Road.

The park is open for recreation unless closed or restricted by posting.

Mount Caesar — Swanzey

Mount Caesar provides a moderate climb through wooded terrain and is close enough to Keene to make it an easy choice for a half-day outing.

As with any fall hike, wet leaves and roots can make portions of the trail slippery, particularly after rain.

Pitcher Mountain — Stoddard

Pitcher Mountain is a popular shorter climb with an open summit and fire tower.

The combination of a relatively compact hike and an exposed summit makes it an appealing fall destination for hikers who want a view without committing an entire day to the trail.

Kulish Ledges — Nelson

The trails around Kulish Ledges provide rocky terrain and views across the surrounding landscape.

This is another good option for hikers who want a quieter outing and the chance to see fall color from above the surrounding forest.

Pack Monadnock — Peterborough

Pack Monadnock is part of Miller State Park and provides one of the region’s better elevated views without requiring a Mount Monadnock climb.

Miller State Park is currently open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekends. Day-use fees are $4 for adults and $2 for children ages 6-11.

Wapack Trail

The Wapack Trail crosses several peaks in the southern New Hampshire highlands and provides numerous options for shorter or longer hikes.

Rather than feeling obligated to complete an entire section, hikers can choose an appropriate turnaround point and make the outing fit their schedule and ability.

Mount Monadnock — Jaffrey

For experienced hikers looking for a bigger challenge, Mount Monadnock remains the region’s signature fall hike.

At 3,165 feet, the mountain provides expansive views from its rocky summit.

But fall weekends can be extremely busy. New Hampshire State Parks says Monadnock can sell out on weekend days from April through November and strongly recommends reserving day-use parking in advance. Visitors can be turned away when the park reaches capacity.

Before You Go

Fall hiking comes with a few extra considerations.

Bring water, a charged phone, an extra layer and a headlamp or flashlight. Days are getting shorter, and a hike that begins in afternoon sunlight can end in darkness.

Wear footwear with good traction. Wet leaves can hide rocks and roots and make steep descents particularly slippery.

Check the weather before leaving, and let someone know where you’re going if you’re hiking alone.

Most importantly, choose a trail that matches your experience and allow yourself plenty of time to finish before dark.

The leaves won’t all change at once. That’s good news for hikers — it means there’s plenty of autumn still ahead.