Secret Locations: The Perfect Engagement Spot in Southern NH
So you’re looking for the perfect spot for your engagement session, but maybe life is just too busy for you to get all the way up to the White Mountains. Enter our unsung hero and underdog: Merrimack New Hampshire. Popularly known for the Merrimack Outlets, it is said this town is named after the fish and river that run through it.
Waterfall in the late summer at Wildcat Falls in Merrimack NH exude calmer waters and lush greens
Wildcat Falls, Merrimack New Hampshire
Enter stage left: Wildcat Falls. I discovered this place on AllTrails during the pandemic when me and my (now) fiancé had too much time on our hands and needed to get outside while social distancing was in full swing (what a blast). This place has yearround appeal that makes it a perfect photoshoot spot for couples, seniors, and even families! The greater conservation area is comprised of approximately 87 acres of riverbanks, pine and hardwood forest, possible glacial erratics, and lots of wildlife including the American Kestrel. I have personally been here every season for shoots and personal ventures except the winter (so you already know that’s on my bucket list).
Spring at Wildcat Falls
The season of new beginnings, you’ll really see Wildcats Falls come alive in the springtime. Fresh buds line the riverbanks and trails, and the greenery is just starting to wake up. It is definitely a bit colder here in the spring as there is less light available with the dense forest, so definitely dress in layers. This is a great time for engagement sessions and proposals, and even small families. Due to the lighter crowds at this time, I think it would be an amazing spot for intimate elopements on a smaller scale as well.
Merrimack NH walking trails near the power lines are teeming with wildflowers of various varieties, just make sure to stay on the paths
Summer Engagement Session at Wildcat Falls Conservation Area
Summer nights are definitely a favorite of mine when it comes to photoshoots. One of the perks of the running water is that you’ll notice mosquito populations will be a lot lower here than in other areas where there is stagnant water to lay eggs. The bright greens of the flora, strong greys of the rocks, and yellow/white of the flowers make an absolutely stunning backdrop for adventure sessions here.
Autumn at Wildcat Falls brings vibrant foliage, calm waters, and stunning greenery
Autumn at Wildcat Falls in Merrimack is Perfect for Couples
As the days get shorter and colder, I often find couples trying to squeeze in a session before the first frosts set in. Because of the proximity to surrounding towns like Nashua, and Manchester, the timing is often perfect to squeeze out a session after work on a weekday. Many of the trees surrounding the riverbank turn to a rich red, depending on time in the season.
Look up!
And you’ll likely find a canopy of buckthorn and similar hardwood trees shifting from green, to orange, and red of the anthocyanins created from the breakdown of chlorophyll as these tree get ready for overwinter.
Styling Recommendations:
white tops and dresses will really pop against the dark, rich setting
dressing in layers is always a good idea, since it could get colder as the sun sets
stay away from most colors, as you’ll clash with the background and natural setting
the ground is very uneven with inclines, tall grasses and rocky terrain, so please wear secure shoes
