Traveling on foot you’ll experience the Mount Washington Valley from a totally different dimension. The White Mountain National Forest and surrounding areas have miles of hiking trails to explore. Here are a few family favorites to get you started.
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Jackson Loop - 1.5 miles/30 minutes
The loop runs along Rte 16A and Rte 16 here in Jackson village. |
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Rail ‘n’ River Interpretive Trail - 0.5 mile/10-60 minutes
This self guided trail is enhanced by interpretive signs and a free brochure explaining the natural features of the area and how they relate to mankind. This easy walk is on fairly flat terrain with some stairs. The trail commences at the back of the Russell-Colbath House on Kancamagus Highway, east of Conway. |
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Lost Pond & Square Ledge - 1 mile/30 minutes
This is a short walk to a scenic pond taking in beaver ponds along a stream and through a forest. Commencing on Lost Pond Trail, this walk diverges left for excellent views of Mount Washington and Pinkham Notch. Lost Pond trail begins across the road from AMC Pinkham Notch Camp on Rte 16 near a pond. |
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Jackson - 5 mile circuit/ 2-3 hours
Follow Rte 16B from the center of Jackson along the Wildcat River and Jackson Falls; continue following the Wildcat river through farmland and past mountain views. For a shorter route, park by Jackson Falls and take the cut-off road to avoid steep hills by Christmas Farm Inn and the Falls. |
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Doublehead Ski Trail - 3.6 miles/ 3½ hours
Steep in places, this trail ascends North Doublehead from the east and offers views to the east and of Mountain Pond. From Rte 16A in Jackson, take Rte 16B to Black Mountain and bear right over the bridge on Dundee Road. The trailhead and parking area are clearly marked. |
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Mountain Pond Loop Trail - 2.6 miles/ 1½ hours
From Rte 16A in Intervale, turn east on Town Hall Road and go 6.8 miles to the trailhead, this walk is a pleasant easy loop around the pond. |
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Boulder Loop Trail - 2.8 miles/2-4 hours
This gradual climb with some steep pitches offers spectacular views of Mount Chocorua and the Swift River Valley. The trail begins near the Covered Bridge Campground on the Kancamagus Highway, east of Conway. Informative brochures about this self guided trail and explaining the formation of soil and the origin and growth of the forest are available from the Saco Ranger Station. |
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Greeley Ponds - 5.8 miles/3½ hours
The going is fairly easy to reach these beautiful ponds. The trailhead is 9½ miles east of Lincoln on the Kancamagus Highway. |
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Mount Willard - 2.8 miles/2½ hours
Easy grades and good footing in addition to the fabulous views of Crawford Notch make this trail a favorite. The trailhead can be found near to AMC’s Crawford Depot on Rte 302 in Crawford Notch. |
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Black Cap Path - 2.4 miles/2 hours
This trail through spruce and beech forests to the bare summit of Black Cap offers amazing views of the Green hills range at its end. From Rte 16 at Intervale, turn right onto Hurricane Mountain Road, the trailhead is found 3.7 miles from Rte 16 on the right. |
