Forests and farmlands shape Grafton's scenic identity
Grafton, a once-prominent mining town, is known for its natural beauty, which spans from dense forests to vast expanses of rolling farmlands. Rural retreats define this pocket of New Hampshire, which blends access to recreation with connectivity to nearby towns like Plymouth and Lebanon.
Mountain-style homes on large lots offer privacy and charm
Spread out single-family homes dot the rural landscape of Grafton, many on spacious properties that promise privacy from neighbors. Most homes are mountain retreats that reflect the bucolic setting, including farmhouses, ranch-style homes and Cape Cods. Rustic influences like natural timbering are prominent throughout the residential architecture here. Many parcels of land ranging in size are also available for purchase, offering an opportunity for custom construction. Prices for single-family homes typically range between $145,000 and $750,000.
Most students attend schools in the Mascoma Valley district
Most students in Grafton are zoned to attend schools within the Mascoma Valley Regional School District, which gets a C-plus Niche rating. Young students may begin their education at Canaan Elementary School for prekindergarten through fourth grade. Kids may advance to Indian River School for grades five through eight. Both grade schools have C-plus overall scores. High schoolers attend Mascoma Valley Regional High. The C-rated school offers a vibrant mix of co-curricular activities, including drama, sports, art and music. Athletics offerings at the high school include a bass-fishing team, and the team won the 2024 state championship.
Grafton Pond and Cardigan Mountain are recreation hubs
Grafton’s location in central New Hampshire puts residents in proximity to many natural recreational spaces like the Grafton Pond Reservation and Cardigan Mountain State Park. Trails snake through the Cardigan Mountain State Forest and Park, with scenic outlooks and rocky ledges. Locals enjoy rafting on and fishing along the 319-acre Grafton Pond, which features an almost entirely undeveloped shoreline. Other ponds like Kilton and Spectacle also support boating, fishing and swimming. The nearby Newfound Lake is another water destination for relaxation and recreation. The Ruggles Mine, a historic mine famous for its uranium deposits and other minerals, showcases Grafton's legacy as a mining town. Visitors can still explore the mine today.
Groceries and dining are mostly found outside Grafton
Folks here typically go into neighboring towns for errands and dining due to Grafton’s remote location. Nearby conveniences include Dollar General in Canaan, and George’s AG Super Value and Jake’s Market & Deli in Enfield, which all fulfill essentials. Still, many residents go to Lebanon, about 22 miles away, for retailers and shopping. Favorites for dining in Lebanon include local establishments like Three Tomatoes Trattoria, an Italian staple, and Lucky’s Coffee Garage, a laid-back café located in a brick garage. Other grocery options in Lebanon and West Lebanon include Walmart and Price Chopper.
Most residents drive but transit and airports are nearby
Residents of Grafton primarily depend on personal vehicles for transportation, but several public and community-based transit options are available. The town is served by Tri-County Transit, which offers door-to-door services and flex-route buses for the public, elderly and disabled individuals in northern Grafton County. Grafton is located within reasonable driving distance of major highways like Interstate 89 and Route 4. The nearest international airport is Boston Logan International Airport, approximately 108 miles away, while Lebanon Municipal Airport, just 26 miles from Grafton, provides domestic flight options.
Written By
Christina von Claparede-Crola