Percy Peaks Trail

While komoot categorizes this route as jogging, the Percy Peaks Trail is generally more suited for hiking due to its varied and often demanding terrain. The first mile has easy to moderate grades and good footing, but after that, it becomes steep and rough, featuring many stone stairs and open rock slabs. These sections are difficult, especially when wet, and often require using your hands for ascent, making continuous jogging impractical and potentially unsafe.

The trail starts with easy to moderate grades and good footing, winding through hemlock and beech trees. However, it quickly becomes steep and rough, with numerous stone stairs. Near the summit of North Percy Peak, you'll encounter open rock slabs and exposed granite ledges that are very steep and can be slippery when wet. Some sections may even require careful route-finding as they don't look like a traditional trail.

The Percy Peaks Trail is renowned for its panoramic and excellent views, especially from the open granite summits of North and South Percy Peaks. From the peaks, you can see the distant Presidential Range, Franconia Ridge, mountains in Maine, and the Nash Stream valley. The area around the summit of North Percy is wide and flat, offering unobstructed 360-degree vistas. You can specifically enjoy the View from North Percy Peak.

The trail offers beautiful scenery throughout the warmer months. August is particularly special as the summit of North Percy Peak is covered with blueberries, adding to the scenic appeal. However, be aware that the open rock slabs can be very difficult and dangerous in wet or icy conditions, so plan your visit during dry weather.

Yes, dogs are generally allowed on the Percy Peaks Trail within the Nash Stream Forest. However, due to the challenging and steep terrain, including open rock slabs, it's crucial to assess if your dog is capable of handling such conditions. Always keep your dog on a leash and practice Leave No Trace principles.

The Percy Peaks Trail is located within the Nash Stream Forest. Generally, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required for day hiking on trails within New Hampshire's state forests. However, it's always a good idea to check the official New Hampshire State Parks website for any updated regulations before your visit.

The primary trailhead for the Percy Peaks Trail is typically accessed from Nash Stream Road. There is parking available at the trailhead. Given the trail's popularity and the desire for a remote experience, arriving earlier in the day is advisable to secure a spot, especially on weekends.

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Cohos Trail, Percy Peaks Trail, North Percy Peak, South Percy Peak, Percy Loop Trail, and Old Summer Club Trail.

The Percy Peaks are considered iconic mountains in New Hampshire's North Country, recognized by their open rocky slopes. They are included in the "52 With A View" list for their exceptional scenic vistas. The trail offers a sense of remoteness and features the enormous scarred granite dome of North Percy Peak, making it one of the most unique and challenging climbs in the area with incredibly rewarding summit views.

Given the trail's difficulty and varied terrain, sturdy hiking boots with excellent grip are essential, especially for the steep and potentially slippery rock slabs. Layers of clothing are recommended as weather conditions can change quickly. Bring plenty of water, snacks, a map, compass or GPS, and basic first-aid supplies. Trekking poles can also be very helpful on the steep sections.

No, the Percy Peaks Trail is rated as difficult and is not recommended for beginners. It involves significant elevation gain, steep and rough terrain, stone stairs, and challenging open rock slabs that can be dangerous. Hikers should have prior experience with strenuous trails and be prepared for a demanding ascent.