We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
New Hampshire
New Hampshire is one of the strongest hiking states in the Northeast, with rugged alpine terrain, long ridge traverses, deep forest valleys, and classic waterfall routes. The White Mountains anchor the state with steep ascents, exposed summits, and hut-based backcountry options. Southern and central regions offer lower-elevation loops, lakeside trails, and accessible day hikes that still deliver strong scenery.
Best Seasons to Hike
- Spring: Excellent waterfall flow and cool valley temperatures; some higher routes remain icy.
- Summer: Prime season for alpine summits and long White Mountain traverses.
- Fall: Peak foliage and ideal temperatures for higher-mileage hiking.
- Winter: Exceptional for prepared hikers; severe weather and full winter gear are common at elevation.
Trail Character
Expect steep grades, rocky footing, stream crossings, and exposed sections on many iconic routes. Trails range from easy family loops to highly strenuous alpine climbs requiring solid planning.
Access, Permits, and Fees
Many trailheads are in White Mountain National Forest and are free, while some sites require parking fees or passes. Popular trailheads fill early, especially on summer and fall weekends.
Safety and Conditions Guidance
Mountain weather changes rapidly. Carry layers, water, navigation, and emergency essentials. Check forecasts and trail reports before committing to high-elevation routes. Cell service is limited in many valleys.
Regional Highlights
- White Mountains and Presidential Range (Coos, Grafton)
- Franconia Notch and Kinsmans (Grafton)
- Lakes Region and Belknap Range (Belknap, Carroll)
- Monadnock and Southern Highlands (Cheshire, Hillsborough)
- Seacoast Marsh and Coastal Preserves (Rockingham)
Trail Locations in New Hampshire
Loading map...
Trails in New Hampshire
Showing 24 of 105 trails
Albany Mountain Trail
carroll County
Moderate climb to open ledges and quieter mountain scenery.
Arethusa Falls Trail
coos County
Waterfall-focused hike to one of New Hampshire's tallest cascades.
Artists Bluff and Bald Mountain Trail
grafton County
Short scenic climb to one of NH's most photographed viewpoints.
Baldface Circle Trail
carroll County
Rugged alpine-like loop with extensive open ledge walking.
Basin Cascades Trail
grafton County
Easy loop to polished granite cascades in Franconia Notch.
Belknap Mountain Trail
belknap County
Fire tower climb with strong views over the Lakes Region.
Black Cap Trail
carroll County
Short, popular ascent to broad views over North Conway and surrounding peaks.
Black Mountain Trail Jackson NH
carroll County
Classic north-country ascent to open ledges and summit shelter area.
Bondcliff Trail Segment
grafton County
High-mileage Pemigewasset route with dramatic cliff-edge views.
Cannon Mountain Rim Trail
grafton County
Rugged summit-area trail with cliffs and notch overlooks.
Carter Notch Wildcat River Trail
coos County
River-side notch trail with cascades and dramatic valley walls.
Champney Falls Trail
carroll County
Forest hike to multi-tiered waterfalls on Chocorua's lower slopes.
Cranmore Mountain Trail
carroll County
Shorter climb near North Conway with summit and valley views.
Diana's Baths Trail
carroll County
Easy riverside walk to popular granite cascades.
Dickey Mountain Trail NH
grafton County
Rocky climb to summit ledges with broad valley views.
Doublehead Mountain Trail NH
carroll County
Steady summit climb near Jackson with broad White Mountain views.
East Pond Trail NH
grafton County
Wooded hike to remote pond scenery near Kancamagus region.
Ethan Pond Trail Segment NH
coos County
Longer route with wetland, pond, and mountain-corridor scenery.
Falling Waters Trail NH
grafton County
Waterfall-rich ascent trail with stream crossings and rocky grades.
Flume Gorge Trail
grafton County
Iconic gorge walk through granite walls and covered bridges.
Franconia Ridge Loop Trail
grafton County
Classic White Mountain ridge traverse with sustained alpine views.
Gale River Trail NH
grafton County
Forest-and-river approach trail to the Garfield and Galehead area.
Garfield Ridge Trail Segment
grafton County
Classic White Mountain ridge segment with challenging footing.
Georgiana Falls Trail
grafton County
Waterfall hike with steep sections and scenic cascades.