New Hampshire may be my favorite New England state for epic hiking trails. The White Mountains are a stunning range and contain some of the region’s most exhilarating treks. This is where you’ll find New England’s tallest peak and adventures that will push you to the limits. The world-famous Appalachian Trail cuts through New Hampshire and provides the opportunity to meet thru-hikers. Appalachian Mountain Club huts offer accommodations for hikers on the Presidential Franconia ranges. Each lodge rests in the beautiful wilderness and provides jaw-dropping vistas of the rocky slopes.

In this post, I’ve ranked my 10 favorite New Hampshire hikes that each offer heart-racing adventures. From steep climbs to rugged terrain, these trails will test your hiking fortitude. I wouldn’t suggest trekking newbies break in their boots here in New Hampshire. The hiking here is intense, and I think it’s an underrated gem for seasoned trekkers exploring America. While preparation is crucial for any hiking trail, I quickly realized New Hampshire is a different monster. I always surveyed weather forecasts to avoid wandering into the infamous extreme conditions in the White Mountains.

After going back through my New Hampshire adventures, I recommend starting with these hikes for a life-changing outdoor vacation.

 

10 Best Hikes in New Hampshire

Best Places to Hike | Mount Lafayette and Franconia Ridge Trail Loop | Welch and Dickey Loop Trail | Mount Washington via Tuckerman Ravine and Lion Head Trail | Champney Falls Trail | Mount Willard Trail | Mount Tecumseh Trail | Mount Major and Brook Trail Loop | Lonesome Lake Trail | Belknap Fire Tower Trail | Mount Pemigewasset Trail (Indian Head) |

 

 Best Places to Hike

These are my favorite areas to hike in New Hampshire. If you’re not sure where to begin your trekking expedition, I’d recommend these locations first.

• White Mountain National Forest – The White Mountains offer the most daring hiking adventures in New Hampshire. There are about 1,200 miles of trails, and you have the opportunity to climb some of New England’s tallest and most challenging peaks.
• Franconia Notch State Park – Stretching from Flume Gorge to Echo Lake, this rugged mountain pass forms one of New Hampshire’s best recreation areas. The Franconia Notch Parkway cuts between the mountain ranges and brings you face to face with several 4,000 footers.
• Crawford Notch State Park – At 5,775 acres, this beautiful state park showcases one of the dramatic mountain passes in the White Mountains. Hiking trails lead to cascading waterfalls and stunning vistas overlooking sharp valleys.

Lakes Region – Trek through pristine forests and reach breathtaking viewpoints that overlook sparkling lakes. After working up a sweat on the trail, reward yourself with a refreshing swim at this recreational wonderland.

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1. Mount Lafayette and Franconia Ridge Trail Loop

• Length: 8.6 miles
• Route Type: Loop
• Difficulty: Hard

Nestled in White Mountain National Forest, the Mount Lafayette and Franconia Ridge Trail Loop take your breath away in every way imaginable. You’ll ascend three rugged mountain peaks and fight for air on the near 4,000 feet of elevation gain. But once you reach the summit of Mount Lafayette, you’ll be speechless with the spectacular views. When the sun is shining, I don’t think there’s a better panoramic view in New Hampshire. Fortunately, the rocks allowed me to rest after huffing and puffing during the strenuous climb.

Mount Lafayette is the Franconia Ridge’s tallest peak and the state’s highest summit outside of the Presidential Range. Prepare for an exhausting day hike if you’re aiming to complete the loop in one outing. To get an early start to the day, I’d recommend camping around Mount Lafayette. Whether your preference is summer or winter, trekking poles are a must for this trail. The rocks and potentially icy conditions can make it a struggle, so I’d recommend having the extra stability with you. Between the steep incline, boulders, and loose gravel, it’s easy to take a tumble if you’re not careful.

The near 9-mile loop encompasses the Falling Waters, Old Bridle Path, Franconia Ridge, and Greenleaf trails. Ascending the Falling Waters Trail to Little Haystack brings you along the ridgeline, but this climb is more difficult. Consider climbing via the Old Bridle Path if it’s windy the day of your hike. Either way, the loop showcases New Hampshire’s natural beauty passing waterfalls, evergreen forest, and rocky staircases. Not only do I think it’s the best New Hampshire hike for adventurous trekkers, but it would also be one of my personal favorites in New England.

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 2. Welch and Dickey Loop Trail

• Length: 4.3 miles
• Route Type: Loop
• Difficulty: Hard

Another of my favorites in New Hampshire’s the White Mountains, the Welch and Dickey Loop Trail is a shorter alternative to Mount Lafayette. The 4.3-mile loop still challenges you with nearly 2,000 feet of elevation change but is more manageable for a day hike. After a steep climb and rock scrambles, you’ll have sensational views of the White Mountains rising over the valley. The trailhead starts near Thornton, provides some of New Hampshire’s best views, and doesn’t include the more strenuous ascents on other trails.

Although it’s a shorter loop, trekking poles may still be necessary to tackle the rugged terrain. If you’re daring and do a winter hike, then add spikes to your packing list for the icy surfaces. Because of the eye-popping foliage, autumn may be my favorite time to hike this trail. If you’d rather come in the spring, there are tons of blooming wildflowers that dot the landscape.  While walking along the exposed ledge, the viewpoints overlooking the rolling peaks are simply incredible. In particular, the views from Welch and Dickey Mountains are among the most epic panoramas in New England.

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3. Mount Washington via Tuckerman Ravine and Lion Head Trail

• Length: 7.9 miles
• Route Type: Out & Back
• Difficulty: Hard

You can’t talk about hiking in New Hampshire without highlighting the imposing Mount Washington. Standing at 6,288 feet, Mount Washington is the roof of New England and the White Mountains. With clear skies, you can gaze at several neighbouring states and feel the rush of conquering New Hampshire’s highest peak.

However, I’d highly recommend only experienced hikers embark on this daring challenge up Mount Washington. It’s one of the most dangerous climbs in America, and over 160 people have died trekking the mountain. I’m not trying to scare you, but any summit bid to Mount Washington must come with serious preparation. High-velocity winds and frigid temperatures throughout the year can cause problems for any hiker climbing Mount Washington.

Starting from Pinkham Notch, Tuckerman Ravine Trail is a fantastic route to reach the summit. Make sure you start your ascent early and check the Mount Washington Observatory forecast in case of inclement weather. The poor signage makes it easy to wander off the trail if you’re not paying attention or getting blown by high winds. You’ll follow a rocky road and a steady climb before reaching the Lion Head Trail. The latter portion of the trail is when things get treacherous due to rockier and steeper terrain.

Rocks can be slippery, and some parts are dangerous if you’re not aware of your surroundings. Once you complete the journey, take a breather and soak up the majestic White Mountain views. The Presidential Range peaks create an unbelievable portrait, and it’s one of my favorite photo spots in New Hampshire.

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4. Champney Falls Trail

• Length: 3.1 miles
• Route Type: Out & Back
• Difficulty: Moderate

Whenever I don’t feel like making strenuous rock scrambles, Champney Falls Trail is my go-to trail for gorgeous scenery. The trail has modest elevation gain and leads to a tranquil 70 ft series of cascades. I’d recommend visiting Champney Falls when the water is rushing at peak level. The falls sliding down rocky slope paints a beautiful panorama encircled by the dense forest. If you’re hiking during the scorching summer, the falls here are a wonderful place to cool off. The trail is doable year-round, but spikes are a good idea for the icy surfaces in winter.

Waterproof hiking boots are another item I’d highly consider bringing on this path. You’ll make three stream crossings, and you don’t want to be stuck with damp socks. There are many rocks to walk over, but I bring waterproof boots to be safe. One of my pet peeves for hiking is wet feet, and I always want my socks to stay dry on the trail.

It’s also important to hike with caution around the ledges located beside the cascades. Many hikers have injured themselves due to nasty falls caused by slippery surfaces. To continue your fun after Champney Falls, the trail also leads to the rugged Mount Chocorua.

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5. Mount Willard Trail

• Length: 3.2 miles
• Route Type: Out & Back
• Difficulty: Moderate

Inside Crawford Notch State Park, the Mount Willard Trail offers one of my favorite panoramic views in New England. It has all the makings for one of the best hikes in New Hampshire that nearly everyone can do. Just over three miles round trip, the trail captures breathtaking 360-degree views of the White Mountains. You won’t exert as much effort as other thrilling New Hampshire hikes, and the vistas are magical. It’s a modest elevation change of just under 1,000 feet and less steep compared to other treks.

This trek is popular, and an early start is a must to enjoy it without overbearing crowds. For myself, I like to leave at the crack of dawn to reach the summit for a breathtaking sunrise show. Along the way, you’ll pass a small cascade and make a couple of river crossings. You can hop along with stones, but I advise wearing waterproof hiking boots. The grand finale is the vista that greets you when standing on the rocky ledge at the summit. As you sit high above the U-shaped valley, you’ll have a front-row seat of Mount Webster and Mount Wiley. The highway cuts through the valley and forms the perfect backdrop for a picnic.

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6. Mount Tecumseh Trail

• Length: 5.2 miles
• Route Type: Out & Back
• Difficulty: Moderate

I can’t get enough of White Mountain National Forest, and Mount Tecumseh is another awesome thigh-burning climb. Not far from the Waterville Valley Ski Area, the trail helps you notch another 4,000+ ft summit. With nearly 2,300 feet of elevation gain, your blood will be pumping at the mountain peak. You’ll encounter many rocks scattered on the trail, so prepare yourself for a few scrambles. As the path becomes steeper, you’ll begin to climb rocky staircases before reaching a ridge.

At the summit, soak up magical views of the Waterville Valley, Sandwich Range Wilderness, and adjacent peaks. The sweeping vistas showcase Mount Osceola and the rugged Tripyramids. I’d advise making this ascent early in the morning for a sunrise hike due to the small summit. Crowded days can create a tight squeeze at the peak after conquering this quad burner.

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7. Mount Major and Brook Trail Loop

• Length: 3.7 miles
• Route Type: Loop
• Difficulty: Moderate

Situated beside Lake Winnipesaukee, the Mount Major and Brook Trail Loop shine with its stunning lakeside views. As the largest lake in New Hampshire, Lake Winnipesaukee is the crown jewel in the state’s Lakes Region. Just outside of Alton, Mount Major offers some of the most dramatic vistas of Lake Winnipesaukee. Although the trail ascends over 1,000 feet, it’s suitable for hikers of most skill levels. The trailhead parking lot fills up quickly in summer, and it would be wise to arrive early or on weekdays. It’s doable in winter, but spikes are a necessity if you hike then.

The first section of the loop traverses through the forest, and you’ll come across several enormous boulders. When the trail becomes steeper, it opens up to reveal the deep-blue waters of the lake. While the path is well-marked, be prepared for a few rock scrambles before you reach the overlook. From the summit, you’ll gaze at the lake from Alton Bay and notice several islands. There are multiple paths to the top marked by different coloured blazes. The Mt. Major Trail, marked by blue blazes, tends to be the most challenging ascent to the summit.

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8. Lonesome Lake Trail

• Length: 3.1 miles
• Route Type: Loop
• Difficulty: Moderate

I love lakeside hiking trails, and Lonesome Lake Trail is one of the best New Hampshire has to offer. The gem of Franconia Notch State Park, Lonesome Lake is a cherished natural wonder. Before venturing to the state park beside Mount Lafayette, you’ll have to make reservations for day use. It’s a steady climb of roughly 1,000 feet, but the trail flattens out beside the lake. As you trek along Canon Mountain, you’ll see breathtaking vistas of the Franconia Ridge.

The trail’s first portion traverses through an old-growth forest and cuts through a nearby campground. After a series of steep switchbacks, the path opens up, and Lonesome Lake appears from the forest. The Franconia Ridge forms a stunning backdrop, and you’ll see several peaks rising behind the foliage. I love this hike in the summer since it’s not treacherously long and taking a dip in Lonesome Lake is always fun. The lake provides a haven for swimming, kayaking, fishing, and other leisure activities. While you’re there, check out the Lonesome Lake Hut for home-cooked meals and friendly service.

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9. Belknap Fire Tower Trail

• Length: 3.2 miles
• Route Type: Out & Back
• Difficulty: Moderate

New Hampshire’s history of fire towers goes back over a century and over a dozen still operate today. In addition to helping detect fires in the state’s vast forest, the fire towers offer sensational views for hikers. One of my favorite fire tower climbs rests beside Belknap Mountain in the Lakes Region.

It’s a modest ascent to the summit, but the fun begins at the fire tower. From the steel tower, you’ll have 360-degree views of the landscape that includes Lake Winnipesaukee. The scenic views of the White Mountains make this a spectacular place to admire New England’s fall foliage. Just make sure to layer up here since you’re exposed to chilly winds atop the fire tower.

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10. Mount Pemigewasset Trail (Indian Head)

• Length: 3.7 miles
• Route Type: Out & Back
• Difficulty: Moderate

Returning to Franconia Notch State Park, the Mount Pemigewasset Trail is another short climb that results in unbelievable vistas. You’ll start the journey trekking through the forest and encounter lots of beautiful foliage. Be mindful of your footing on this path with barriers such as strewn rocks and exposed limbs. The trail also tends to get slippery after rain showers, so waterproof boots are a plus. If you look closely, you might spot adorable creatures such as chipmunks, deer, and several bird species.

With over 1,200 feet of elevation change, the ascent gets steep before reaching the summit. But the views are worth it, and the Mount Pemigewasset peak ranks among my favorite sights in New Hampshire. Since the hike isn’t as strenuous as others, Mount Pemigewasset tends to get busy during peak season. Depart early or on weekdays to avoid the crowds for a more peaceful trek through the New Hampshire wilderness.

 

 

Which New Hampshire hike will be your first? Let us know in the comments below.