The best walks and hikes in Coos County

Prepare for a difficult hike up Mount Washington via the Tuckerman Ravine Trail, a challenging ascent covering 4.0 miles (6.5 km). You will gain a significant 4202 feet (1281 metres) in elevation, with an estimated duration of 3 hours and 21 minutes to reach the summit. The route begins with pleasant woodland views, passing the picturesque Crystal Cascade waterfall, before the terrain changes dramatically. As you climb, you will enter the impressive Tuckerman Ravine, navigating over boulders on the headwall for increasingly spectacular views above the treeline.

Planning your visit requires careful attention to Mount Washington's famously unpredictable weather. The trail starts at the Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC) Pinkham Notch Visitor Center; it is wise to check current conditions there before you begin. In winter and spring, the Tuckerman Ravine headwall can be impassable and closed due to snow, ice, and avalanche hazards, often requiring technical gear. Even during summer and fall, you should be ready for high winds, low visibility, and rapid temperature changes.

This iconic route is one of the most popular ways to reach the summit from the east side, located within the White Mountain National Forest. While the summit can offer expansive views, be prepared for it to be frequently shrouded in fog and clouds. The dramatic changes in terrain and climate make this a notable experience for those seeking a true mountain challenge.

Embark on the challenging Mount Tom, Field, Willey, and Avalon Loop, a difficult 7.8 miles (12.5 km) hike that typically takes 5 hours and 54 minutes. You will ascend a significant 3077 feet (938 metres) through varied terrain, typical of the White Mountains, featuring rocky and rooty sections. While Mount Tom and Mount Field offer mostly wooded summits, the highlight is Mount Avalon, which rewards your effort with exceptional panoramic views of Crawford Notch and Mount Washington. Along the lower Avalon Trail, you can also discover the beauty of Beecher Cascade and Pearl Cascade, adding visual interest to your journey.

The trailhead for this loop is easily accessible from either the Crawford Notch Visitor Center or Crawford Depot, offering convenient starting points. This difficult route is viable year-round, but be aware that conditions change significantly with the seasons. If you plan to hike during winter months, you should be prepared for potentially icy sections. Make sure to bring appropriate gear such as microspikes or snowshoes to ensure your safety and enjoyment on the trail.

This loop is situated within Crawford Notch State Park, a region known for its rugged beauty and diverse landscapes. The path between Field and Willey guides you through a dense, scenic forest, showcasing the natural environment of the White Mountains. The varied terrain and multiple summit experiences make this a notable and rewarding hike for experienced adventurers seeking a comprehensive tour of the area's peaks and waterfalls.

Embark on the challenging Presidential Traverse from Highland Center Lodge to Randolph, a demanding hike that spans 17.5 miles (28.2 km). You will ascend a significant 5487 feet (1672 metres) over an estimated 11 hours and 41 minutes, making this a truly difficult endeavor. The route takes you high above the treeline, offering expansive views of the Great Gulf and the Presidential Range-Dry River areas. Expect to navigate rugged terrain, including rocky paths and granite slabs, especially as you approach landmarks like Mount Madison Summit. The ever-present possibility of rapidly changing weather adds to the adventure, ensuring a memorable experience.

Preparing for this traverse requires careful attention to the weather. You should always check the higher summits forecast before you begin, as conditions can shift quickly and dramatically, even seeing snow and freezing temperatures in any month. Much of the route is exposed above the treeline, so pack layers and be ready for anything. While AMC huts like Mizpah Spring Hut offer places to rest and resupply water, it is wise to secure reservations well in advance. Plan your start time to allow ample daylight for the full 11 hours and 41 minutes of hiking.

This iconic traverse is a true test of endurance for experienced hikers, known for its sustained periods above the treeline. The route provides uninterrupted views across the vast White Mountain National Forest, including the Presidential Range-Dry River areas. You will encounter granite slabs and rocky paths that define the technical northern sections of the trail. The journey culminates near Lake of the Clouds Hut, offering a memorable final stretch before descending towards Randolph.

Embark on the difficult Mount Washington Loop via Tuckerman Ravine and Boott Spur Trail, a challenging hike covering 9.8 miles (15.7 km) with an elevation gain of 4275 feet (1303 metres). This route typically takes around 6 hours and 35 minutes to complete, leading you past the scenic Crystal Cascade and into the dramatic glacial cirque of Tuckerman Ravine. As you climb above the treeline, you will experience rugged alpine conditions and expansive 360-degree views of the Presidential Range, with Harvard Rock offering a direct vantage point into the ravine.

Before you set out, be aware that Mount Washington is known for its rapidly changing and extreme weather, so always check forecasts and prepare for high winds, low visibility, and potential snow, even during summer months. This demanding hike requires proper gear and a realistic assessment of your physical limits. You can begin your adventure from the Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC) Pinkham Notch Visitor Center, which serves as the primary access point for this area.

This loop offers a unique opportunity to experience the raw power of nature in the White Mountain National Forest, traversing a landscape shaped by ancient glaciers. The trail's ascent into Tuckerman Ravine provides a close look at a significant geological feature, while the summit views showcase the vastness of the Presidential Range. It is a notable route for those seeking a strenuous and rewarding alpine hiking experience in New England.

Embark on the Mount Washington via Lion Head and Boott Spur Loop for a truly challenging hiking experience, covering 10.2 miles (16.4 km) with a substantial elevation gain of 4677 feet (1425 metres). This difficult route, estimated to take around 7 hours, transitions from shaded forested paths to exposed alpine environments. You will pass the beautiful Crystal Cascade early on, then ascend to sweeping views of Huntington Ravine and the broader Presidential Range before reaching the iconic Mount Washington Summit.

Planning your visit requires careful consideration due to Mount Washington's notoriously severe and rapidly changing weather conditions, which can include high winds and cold temperatures even in summer. It is crucial to be well-prepared with appropriate gear and to check forecasts before you go. The trail typically starts and ends at the Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC) Pinkham Notch Visitor Center, which offers facilities and serves as a key access point.

This loop offers panoramic vistas into Tuckerman Ravine, especially from Boott Spur, providing a unique perspective on the rugged landscape of White Mountain National Forest. The diverse terrain and the rewarding views from the summit make this a standout adventure for experienced hikers seeking a memorable journey in the region.

Embark on the difficult Webster-Jackson Trail, a challenging hike that spans 4.2 miles (6.7 km) and climbs a substantial 2977 feet (907 metres) in elevation. As you ascend, you will navigate rocky and rough sections, including some scrambling, passing through mossy evergreen forests before reaching open summits. The effort culminates at Mount Jackson Summit, a 4,000-footer, where you are treated to sweeping 360-degree views of the Presidential Range-Dry River Wilderness and Mount Washington. Plan for approximately 3 hours and 8 minutes to complete this rewarding journey.

To begin your adventure, find the trailhead conveniently located off Route 302, close to the AMC Highland Center in Crawford Notch. Be prepared for varying conditions, especially if you plan a winter hike. During colder months, the trail can experience harsh conditions with snow and low temperatures, making proper gear like microspikes essential for safety and traction. Always check local weather and trail reports before heading out.

This trail is a standout in the White Mountain National Forest, known for its rugged beauty and the significant reward of its panoramic vistas. The journey through diverse terrain, from dense forest to exposed peaks, offers a true New England mountain experience. It provides a unique perspective on the broader Presidential Range, making it a memorable option for experienced hikers seeking a strenuous but visually rich outing.

Embark on the challenging Mount Pierce, Jackson, and Webster Loop, a difficult hike spanning 12.6 miles (20.3 km) with a significant 3170 feet (966 metres) of elevation gain. This route will take you approximately 7 hours and 52 minutes to complete. You will journey through varied terrain, starting in forested areas where you might encounter small waterfalls along Gibbs Brook, before ascending to exposed ridges and open summits offering expansive views.

When planning your visit, be prepared for potentially cold and windy conditions, especially on the exposed mountain summits, even during warmer months; packing extra layers is always a good idea. Depending on the season, you might encounter muddy sections at lower elevations or need microspikes for better traction higher up. The trail often begins near the Appalachian Mountain Club Highland Center at Crawford Notch, which provides amenities, and you will pass Mizpah Spring Hut, a good spot for water and a brief rest.

This loop is notable for its panoramic vistas of the Presidential Range, including majestic Mount Washington, visible from the summits of Mount Pierce, Mount Jackson, and Mount Webster. The route also features boardwalks that help you navigate damp alpine sections, ensuring continuous views along the ridges. It offers a rewarding experience for experienced hikers seeking a comprehensive tour of these iconic peaks.

Embark on a challenging hike up Mount Washington via Huntington Ravine and Lion Head Trail, a difficult 6.7 miles (10.8 km) route. You will navigate through varied terrain, from lush forest paths to demanding boulder fields and significant rock scrambling, especially within Huntington Ravine. As you ascend, the Lion Head Trail opens up to expansive views, making the 4203 feet (1281 metres) of elevation gain a rewarding experience over an estimated 5 hours and 8 minutes.

Planning your visit requires careful attention to the notoriously unpredictable weather on Mount Washington, which can change rapidly and become extreme. Do not attempt this trail in bad weather or wet conditions, as it involves extensive Class 3 and 4 scrambling that demands dry, stable footing. Always check the latest forecasts and be prepared for severe winds and cold temperatures, even during the summer months, to ensure a safe journey.

This route is widely considered one of the most challenging hikes in New England, offering a unique test of endurance and skill. The combination of the technical Huntington Ravine and the scenic Lion Head Trail provides a comprehensive experience of the White Mountains' rugged beauty. It is a notable adventure for experienced hikers seeking a significant physical and mental challenge in a dramatic alpine environment.

Embark on the Mount Willard Trail, a moderate hike that takes you through serene woods and alongside a gentle stream. You will encounter Centennial Pool, a small waterfall, before the path gradually becomes rockier and steeper. This 3.2 miles (5.1 km) route involves a climb of 973 feet (297 metres), typically completed in about 1 hours and 50 minutes. The reward for your effort is a panoramic view from the summit, offering a clear perspective of Crawford Notch and the Saco River Valley below.

Accessing the Mount Willard Trail is straightforward, as it begins directly behind the Crawford Depot. This convenient starting point offers amenities like restrooms and a gift store, making it easy to prepare for your hike. If you plan to hike during the colder months, be aware that microspikes are highly recommended for navigating potential snow and ice on the path. Consider starting early to enjoy the views and avoid crowds, especially on weekends.

The Mount Willard Trail is known for providing a significant scenic payoff without an overly strenuous climb, making it a popular choice in the White Mountain National Forest. Its unique vantage point directly through the southern part of Crawford Notch sets it apart from many other trails in the region. This makes it an excellent option if you are seeking impressive views with a manageable time commitment.