West and East Royce Mountains via Royce Trail

The East Royce Trail, often the starting point for this route, typically begins with parking available at Brickett Place. It's advisable to arrive early, especially on weekends, as parking can fill up quickly.

While there isn't a specific permit required for hiking the Royce Trail itself, this route is located within the White Mountain National Forest. Some trailheads or recreation areas within the forest may require a day-use fee or a recreation pass. Always check the official White Mountain National Forest website or local signage for the most current information regarding fees and regulations before your visit.

The trail offers different experiences throughout the year. Spring can be beautiful with waterfalls, but expect muddy and snowy conditions, with ice and snow persisting until mid-June at higher elevations. Traction devices like micro-spikes are often recommended during these times. Summer provides lush greenery, while fall showcases stunning foliage. Winter hiking is possible but requires appropriate gear and experience due to snow and ice.

Yes, the Royce Trail is generally dog-friendly. However, always ensure your dog is on a leash and that you pack out all waste. Be mindful of the challenging terrain, including steep sections, wet roots, and rock scrambles, which might be difficult for some dogs.

The terrain is varied and challenging. The East Royce Trail begins with a steady incline, following brooks and featuring numerous waterfalls. You'll encounter steep sections, wet roots, and ledges. Closer to the summit of East Royce, the ascent becomes more rugged with roots, rocks, and some tricky rock scrambles. The forest transitions from open hardwoods to denser softwoods. The section connecting East and West Royce is less steep, but the final 0.7 miles to West Royce Mountain are consistently uphill.

This hike offers diverse scenery. Along the East Royce Trail, you'll find abundant waterfalls and brooks. As you ascend, ledges provide eastward views, including Speckled Mountain. The summit of East Royce Mountain boasts expansive views north and west, with Mt. Washington visible on clear days. You'll also see the Baldface Range and a wild expanse of flat land with lakes. View from West Royce Mountain offers more directional views. The Royce Trail from Brickett Place also passes by Mad River Falls.

Komoot rates this hike as 'moderate,' but local trail research often describes it as 'difficult.' This is due to the significant elevation gain (around 700m or 2,300 feet) over a relatively short distance, combined with steep sections, wet roots, ledges, and rock scrambles, particularly on the ascent to East Royce Mountain. Hikers should be prepared for a strenuous workout.

Yes, this route utilizes several official trails. You will primarily be on the East Royce Trail and the Royce Trail. It also includes sections of the Royce Connector Trail. For those seeking a longer adventure, the Baldface-Royce Traverse tags all the summits in the entire range.

This hike offers a unique opportunity to experience the White Mountains with fewer crowds than more popular peaks. It's also notable for allowing you to reach summits in two different states on the same day, as East Royce Mountain is in Maine and West Royce Mountain is in New Hampshire. The trail also showcases a distinct transition in forest types, from northern hardwoods to montane spruce-fir forests at higher elevations.

This specific route to West and East Royce Mountains via the Royce Trail is typically done as an out-and-back hike. While longer traverses exist in the area, this particular komoot tour follows an out-and-back path to visit both summits.

Given the varied terrain and potential for changing weather, wear sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support. Dress in layers, even in summer, as temperatures can drop at higher elevations. Bring plenty of water, snacks, a map and compass or GPS device, a first-aid kit, and rain gear. In spring or early summer, consider bringing micro-spikes for lingering snow and ice.