Location, Location: Our Place Among Communities

One of the first questions some families ask when they hear about The Trade is simple:

“Where exactly is Pike, New Hampshire?”

And often, underneath that question is another concern:

“Is it in the middle of nowhere?”

The answer is both yes and no. The Trade is intentionally located in a quieter rural setting, surrounded by forests, mountains, rivers, and working land. But it is far from disconnected. In fact, one of the greatest strengths of The Trade is its location between several vibrant New England communities: Plymouth and Hanover, New Hampshire, and nearby Fairlee, Vermont.

The Trade sits in a region where young adults can step away from constant distraction while still remaining connected to culture, education, healthcare, recreation, and opportunity.

Plymouth

About 30 miles away is Plymouth, New Hampshire, often called the “Gateway to the White Mountains.” Plymouth is home to Plymouth State University and carries the energy of a classic New England college town. Young adults at The Trade are within reach of restaurants, coffee shops, music, healthcare, recreation, and a thriving student community. The town blends higher education, tourism, and outdoor adventure into a place that feels active and alive year-round.

For many apprentices, Plymouth represents something important: a bridge between the structure of The Trade and the larger world of adulthood. It offers access to community life without the overwhelming pace and distractions that many young people struggle with in larger cities.

Hanover

The Trade is also located roughly 33 miles from Hanover, New Hampshire, home to Dartmouth College. Hanover is one of the most intellectually vibrant small towns in New England. Families are often surprised to learn how close apprentices are to world-class lectures, arts, bookstores, dining, and cultural events. The Appalachian Trail runs directly through town, reinforcing the connection between intellectual life and the outdoors that defines much of the Upper Valley region.

Hanover has a unique atmosphere. It combines the beauty and simplicity of a small New England town with the energy and ideas of a global academic community. For young adults trying to figure out who they are and where they fit in the world, proximity to places like Hanover can be inspiring.

Fairlee

Just 14 miles away is Fairlee, Vermont, another nearby community that adds to the richness of life in the Upper Valley. Nestled between the Connecticut River and the Green Mountains, Fairlee is a scenic and active small town known for Lake Morey and its vibrant seasonal culture. During the summer months, the area comes alive with outdoor recreation, boating, hiking, restaurants, community gatherings, and a local concert series that draws exceptional musicians to the region.

In the winter, Fairlee becomes a destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Lake Morey is home to the longest skating trail in the United States, attracting visitors from across New England for skating, pond hockey tournaments, and winter recreation. The surrounding trails, forests, and mountains create year-round opportunities for apprentices to stay active and connected to the outdoors.

The Best Of Both Worlds

Many of the young adults who come to The Trade are overwhelmed by modern life. Some have struggled with too much screen time, too much isolation indoors, or too much pressure without enough purpose. Others have started college but found themselves unmotivated, disconnected, or unsure of their direction.

For some families, the idea of rural New Hampshire initially feels remote. But our environment is intentional, not isolating. It is about focus. It is about creating enough distance from distraction that young adults can reconnect with themselves, with other people, and with a sense of purpose. Plus, the amenities of bigger, distinct towns are less than an hour away.

For many young adults, that may be exactly the right place to begin building a life.