Trailspotting

Winnekenni Park & Kenoza Lake, MA

2026-10-18T12:13:36.367-04:00

• 4-star hikes
• 4 to 5 mile options
• Easy | Gain 140 to 360 feet
• Haverhill, MA | Northeast Region
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The 1875 castle-like summer home crowns the park.

Winnekenni Park is a scenic conservation area in Haverhill that features peaceful woodland trails, beautiful lake views, and a historic stone castle. We took a counterclockwise loop around Kenoza Lake starting from The Basin parking area. This route links the Dudley Porter Trail, the Shore Trail, and the Merrill Trail, using a safe roadside section to complete the circuit.

We classify these trails as easy, though the Shore Trail along the eastern side of the lake is primitive and uneven, with rocks and tree roots along the dirt path. All other main trails beside the lake are wide dirt paths that offer frequent views of the water. While this guide describes three hiking options totaling over four miles, you can easily choose shorter routes that still highlight the best of Winnekenni Park and Kenoza Lake.

Trail Options Expand KMZ · Google Earth ·

⬤ 4★ Lake Loop 4.3 mi loop, easy, gain 140 ft
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⬤ 4★ Lake Loop & Castle Trail 4.6 mi loop, easy, gain 280 ft
GPX File · AllTrails · Directions

⬤ 4★ Lake Loop, Castle & Mansion Trail 4.9 mi loop, easy, gain 360 ft
GPX File · AllTrails · Directions

P Free parking

We recommend diverting away from the lake onto the Castle Trail, which ascends a short, narrow dirt path toward Winnekenni Castle. Built in the 1870s as a summer home for Dr. James R. Nichols, a Haverhill chemist, the structure was crafted using boulders and fieldstone gathered from the surrounding land. Dr. Nichols named his estate Winnekenni, an Algonquian word meaning very beautiful. Although a fire in the late 1960s destroyed much of the interior, the stone exterior survived intact. The Winnekenni Foundation was later formed by local citizens to restore the building, and today it hosts concerts and community events.

Starting near the castle, the winding Mansion Trail turns back on itself frequently and is especially popular with mountain bikers, though it also makes for an enjoyable hike. The trail is named after a Victorian mansion that was built here, later abandoned, and eventually demolished in the 1940s.

Most hikes begin with a view of The Basin and fountain.

Another often overlooked feature is the large, ornate cast iron Carleton Fountain, which is frequently hidden by overgrown vegetation. Dating to 1892 and donated by a former Haverhill mayor, the fountain originally stood in downtown Gale Park before being moved near the lake and apparently abandoned to time.

Free parking is available in a lot off Kenoza Avenue, which also features a playground, tennis courts, and well maintained restrooms. Additional parking options include the lot by the castle, roadside spots along Kenoza Avenue, and a medium sized lot near the intersection of Amesbury Road and Kenoza Street. Expand our map and turn on resources in the sidebar to view alternative parking spots and get links for driving directions.

The park and lake offer shorter and longer routes.

One of many lake views from the looping route.

Some hilly trail on the eastern Shore Trail.

Abandoned fountain hidden behind tall vegetation.

More Fall Colors on Kenoza Lake's shores.

External links:
Winnekenni Park at Haverhill website.

Trailspotting nearby:
4★ Ward Reservation (1-4 mi)
3★ Jay McClaren &anp; Peanut Rail Trails (3 mi)
3★ Plaistow Town Forest, NH (1-9 mi)
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Frog Rock, New Boston NH

2026-10-17T21:34:00.000-04:00

• 4-star hike
• 1 mile out-and-back
• Easy | Gain 20 feet
• New Boston, NH | Merrimack Region
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There's no shortage of rocks in New Hampshire, but some are celebrated with greater reverence than others. Granite Staters still are having problems letting go of the Old Man Of The Mountain - the rocky feature that collapsed in 2003 - to the point that even now it's still celebrated on the state's vehicle license plate.

Of course we're not about to suggest replacing the license plate with a rock that looks like a bullfrog if you approach it from the right angle, as that would set expectations way too high for this short hike to a roadside curiosity set back in the New Boston woodland. We'd still suggest this as a fun diversion however, if you're in the neighborhood.

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⬤ 4★ Trail to Frog Rock 0.8 mi out & back, easy, gain 20 ft
GPX File · AllTrails · Directions GPX?

P Free parking

Park off the side of the Francestown Turnpike just three miles out of Mont Vernon, and take a short walk along a forest road to reach this feature. You'll have to take a right turn off the trail to reach the forest setting for Frog Rock. Recently cleared, the final spur trail leads directly to your destination.

Slightly further up the road and to the left is another local feature - the cellar hole ruins of the Read Brothers Farm. Check out our the link at the bottom of this article for the New Boston Historical Society's description of the farm, and for more on Frog Rock and its past.

The wide trail to Frog Rock.

Image from New Boston Historical Society collection.

External Links:
3D Frog Rock at Trailspotting, More Locations
New Boston Historical Society website

Trailspotting Nearby:
4★ Purgatory Falls (1-5 mi)
4★ Crotched Mountain (3-7 mi)
4★ New Boston Rail Trail (5 mi)
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Brennan Falls, Francestown NH

2026-10-17T09:27:00.000-04:00

• 3-star hike
• 2 mile out-and-back
• Easy | Gain 200 feet
• Francestown, NH | Monadnock Region
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Autumn low-flow at Brennan Falls.

Located within the Schott Brennan Falls Preserve, just north of Francestown, Brennan Falls is a modest 20-foot waterfall that puts on a spectacular show during high-water events.

Found at the end of a pleasant woodland hike just under a mile long, this trail is enjoyable in both summer and winter. Start your hike from Campbell Hill Road, following an unmaintained forest road heading southward, before veering left onto a woodland trail marked by a trailhead kiosk.

The trail winds through a mixed forest, including numerous pines that provide verdant greens even in winter. In the summer, expect to see colourful fungi sprouting amid lush greenery. Descend past Brennan Brook Pond, which resembles more of a grassy wetland than a water body, and cross the brook via a boardwalk. Occasional signs guide your way to Brennan Falls, which marks the trail’s end.

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⬤ 3★ Brennan Falls 1.8 mi out & back, easy, gain 200 ft
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P Free parking

While the trail is pleasant year-round, waterfall enthusiasts should visit after significant rainfall or during a winter thaw. Summer visitors should watch out for tall grasses, which may harbour ticks. Be sure to check yourself periodically and perform a thorough tick check after your hike.

If you’re arriving by car, park considerately on one side of Campbell Hill Road, being mindful of local residents. Although the forest road heading south may seem passable for high-clearance 4x4 vehicles, it saves little time on this short hike and is not necessary.

For a longer hike, consider pairing your visit to Brennan Falls with a trip to the summit of Crotched Mountain. This out-and-back hike from Campbell Hill Road covers 6 miles in total and includes 1,330 feet of elevation gain. More information about Crotched Mountain hiking routes can be found at the links in our 'Trailspotting Nearby' section at the bottom of this page.

From wide track to progressively narrower trails.

Schott's Pond viewed from the main trail.

Another pond view from the signposted rudimentary Dam Trail.

External links:
Francestown Land Trust

Trailspotting nearby:
4★ Crotched Mountain (3-7 mi)
4★ Frog Rock (1 mi)
4★ New Boston Rail Trail (5 mi)
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Horse Hill Preserve, Merrimack NH

2026-10-14T16:41:49.903-04:00

• 3-star hike
• 4 mile loop
• Easy | Gain 270 feet
• Merrimack, NH | Merrimack Region
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Reflections on Lastowka Pond.

The Horse Hill Nature Preserve's Loop Trail provides a great representative tour of the park, guiding you past the property's woods, ponds, and wetlands. Despite the park's name we didn't observe any horseback riders on the trails, though it does appear to be particularly popular with local dog walkers.

The route winds around several large ponds where you can see lily pads and beaver lodges. Early on, you will reach Lastowka Pond, which features a bench and an observation area over the water. The loop splits here, so you can walk it in either direction. Further along, the trail skirts Long Pond and crosses under a power line corridor. The walk is easy for most people since the path stays mostly flat with only a few rocks and roots. Starting as a wide gravel path, the trail gradually narrows as you go.

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⬤ 3★ Loop Trail 4.3 mi loop, easy, gain 270 ft
GPX File · AllTrails · Directions GPX?

P Free parking

A short spur off the White Pine Swamp Trail leads to a wetland where great blue herons nest. The Quarry Trail also branches off from here toward Wasserman Park. The eastern side of the loop passes through the main wildlife corridor, so keep an eye out for sensitive habitats. Wooden bridges cross the wet spots, while side trails head up Horse Hill and Blodgett Hill. Many of these side trails were made for mountain bikers, but hikers are welcome on all of them.

Wayfinding is fairly simple along the main loop. Signs mark most junctions to keep you on track, but bringing a map helps since at least one signpost proved confusing. The main trailhead is located on Amherst Road, offering a large parking area and a map kiosk. Our driving directions link leads right to this main lot, and two additional southern entrances are shown on our map.

The Loop Trail traverses the diversity of the park.

Looking south across White Pine Swamp.

The well-cared-for trails can still get muddy after rains and from snowmelt.

External links:
Horse Hill at Merrimack Conservation Commission

Trailspotting nearby:
4★ Wildcat Falls (1-3 mi)
3★ Amherst B&M Rail Trail (1 mi)
3★ Federal Hill Fire Tower (1 mi)
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Pillsbury State Park, Washington NH

2026-10-13T16:59:00.000-04:00

• 3-star hikes
• 2 to 9 mile options
• Moderate | Gain 530 to 1,240 feet
• Washington, NH | Sunapee Region
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All three hikes begin at the trailhead by Mill Pond.

Known for its quiet woodlands, secluded ponds, and rich wetlands, Pillsbury State Park offers a peaceful escape for hiking, mountain biking, paddling, and camping. While many routes follow broad snowmobile corridors, narrower single-track paths lead deep into the forest, including a stretch of the 51-mile Monadnock-Sunapee Greenway. Traces of early history hide along these trails, from 18th-century cellar holes to historic remnants from when the area was called Cherry Valley.

Below are three of the most popular hiking routes, featuring a range of distances and terrain to suit your trip. We've capped our ratings at three stars. While the park delivers classic New Hampshire woodland solitude, it lacks standout scenic features, and the state park service misses opportunities to elevate the experience, such as clearing viewpoints or extending trails to true summits like Bryant Mountain.

Trail Options Expand KMZ · Google Earth ·

⬤ 3★ Kittredge Hill Loop 4.4 mi loop, moderate, gain 890 ft
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⬤ 3★ Balance Rock 2.0 mi out & back, moderate, gain 530 ft
GPX File · AllTrails · Directions

⬤ Lucia's Lookout [Y] 8.7 mi loop, gain 1,240 ft
GPX File · AllTrails · Directions

$ State Park fee per person Y Yet to review

⬤ 3★ Kittredge Hill Loop 4.4 mi, 890 ft
Partial pond views, short hill climb.
Unofficially known as Ponds Loop on AllTrails, this route combines the wide Five Summers and Bear Pond Trails with a section of the narrower Monadnock-Sunapee Greenway Trail. The Greenway section leads through both deciduous and pine forest and over a tree-covered summit. There are partial views of Bear Pond from Five Summers Trail. Logging outside the park’s southeastern boundary has opened a broad view in the direction of Lovewell Mountain.

⬤ 3★ Balance Rock 2.0 mi, 530 ft
Moderate hill hike.
This narrow one-mile trail leads up the side of Bryant Mountain without any steep sections and ends at a glacial erratic boulder that appears precariously balanced. Bryant Mountain is the tallest in the park, but there is no trail to its summit. We bushwhacked towards it to reach the top all the same, and can confirm there is no view from the summit.

Mill Pond Falls, located just east of the trailhead.

⬤ Lucia's Lookout 8.7 mi, 1,240 ft
Longer loop. Yet to review.
After Kittredge Hill, Lucia’s Lookout is the most popular hiking destination reached from the park. The lookout itself lies outside the park, so the trail extends beyond its boundary. We’re yet to explore it, but we’ve included it on our map for your consideration. The most common route is a loop up Five Summers Trail and back on the Monadnock-Sunapee Greenway Trail and Bear Pond Trail. Some prefer an out and back on Five Summers Trail only, which is slightly shorter at 7.9 mi with 1,010 feet of gain.

Remember to pay the per-person day use fees at the office as you enter the park from Washington Road, and display the ticket on your vehicle dashboard. During offseason the park is not staffed and gates may be closed.

Follow the mile-long hillside trail to Balance Rock.

The wide Five Summers Trail is typical of the park's routes.

Bear Pond partially visible through the trees.

Russula mushrooms brighten the trail, but definitely not the belly.

Narrow, single track wooded trail on Kittredge Hill.

External links:
Pillsbury State Park official website

Trailspotting nearby:
4★ Mount Sunapee (1-10 mi)
4★ Fox Forest (3-6 mi)
5★ Sugar River Rail Trail (10 mi)
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Wells Reserve at Laudholm, ME

2026-10-13T10:24:36.366-04:00

• 4-star hike
• 2 mile part-loop
• Easy | Gain 70 feet
• Wells, ME | Maine
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Wetlands at the Wells Preserve at Laudholm.

The Wells Reserve at Laudholm is a National Estuarine Research Reserve on the southern Maine coast, headquartered at historic Laudholm Farm. Reserve staff maintain the trails, boardwalks, and buildings. They also manage the surrounding woodlands, wetlands, dunes, and grasslands, and they run educational and research programs. Note that dogs and bicycles are not permitted on the property.

The partial loop we walked connects the Farley Trail, the Laird-Norton Trail, and the Barrier Beach Trail. Together, they cross a diverse landscape, including mature forests, open fields, brushy edges, an old orchard, salt marshes, an estuary shoreline, and a cobble and sand beach backed by dunes.

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⬤ 4★ Farley, Laird-Norton, Beach Loop 2.0 mi part-loop, easy, gain 70 ft
GPX File · AllTrails · Directions GPX?

$ Per person entry fee

The Farley Trail passes through deep woods with boardwalk sections, as well as open fields and brushy edges. It features small overlooks with views of the Little River estuary, including one with a dock used for the reserve’s kayak tours and field trip programs. The short Saw-whet Trail connects the parking area to the Farley Trail, winding past mature conifers, hardwoods, and the Forest Learning Shelter. Nearby, the Cart Path is a wide track linking the farm campus to the estuary. It offers field views and glimpses of historic farm buildings.

The Laird-Norton Trail crosses meadows before continuing as a boardwalk through forested lowlands, passing over both dry and wet ground with a dense understory. It leads toward the Laird-Norton Overlook, a wooden deck at the edge of the salt marsh overlooking the mouth of the Little River and the barrier dune backing Laudholm Beach. Although the overlook was closed during our visit, we were able to enjoy alternative estuary views along the Farley Trail instead.

The Laird Norton Boardwalk Trail

The Barrier Beach Trail is a wide path that leads past the marsh and through an old orchard to Laudholm Beach, where you will find cobble, sand, exposed peat, and tide pools. Visiting at low tide offers the most room to walk, whereas high tide leaves very little beach area remaining.

The campus buildings are well worth exploring before or after your hike. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the historic Laudholm Farm campus features a farmhouse that houses the Visitor Center, interactive exhibits, and a gift shop. Nearby, the Maine Coastal Ecology Center includes an art gallery. Restrooms are available, and visitors can also see the Alheim Commons and the Portal sculpture on the grounds. Because hours for the Visitor Center and gallery are limited, be sure to check the reserve’s website before planning your trip around them.

Little River Estuary viewed from Farley Trail overlook.

Admission is charged per person, which can add up quickly for larger groups, though the fee is understandable given the beach’s popularity and the lack of similar public options in the area. During peak season, an attendant collects admission at the entry booth. In the off-season, visitors are asked to pay electronically via QR code or place payment in the donation slot. Admission covers parking, entry to the Visitor Center, restrooms, trail access, and beach access.

Our driving directions link should guide you directly to the reserve's main public parking lot. However, some GPS apps occasionally direct drivers to the service entrance instead. Once you are on Laudholm Farm Road, turn left onto Skinner Mill Road, then take a right into the reserve. Avoid continuing to the end of Laudholm Farm Road, as you will have to turn around.

Follow the wide Barrier Beach Trail to the ocean.

Reflections over Laudholm Beach at low tide.

Meadowland and tall trees at the loop's north end.

The Estuarine Research Reserve Campus

Another Little River overlook on Farley Trail.

External links:
Wells Reserve official website

Trailspotting nearby:
4★ Ogunquit Marginal Way (2 mi)
4★ Mount Agamenticus (1-2 mi)
4★ Fisherman's Walk (2 mi)
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Fisherman's Walk & Wiggly Bridge, York ME

2026-10-12T11:30:00.000-04:00

• 4-star hike
• 1 to 2 mile options
• Easy | Gain 10 feet
• York, ME | Maine
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Wiggly Bridge at Barrell's Millpond.

Fisherman’s Walk follows the York River inland from the harbor to a historic millpond dam and a small suspension bridge. First settled by Europeans in 1624, the town that became York grew into a prosperous seaport. Little sign of that trade remains today, though the harbor inlet stays busy with pleasure craft and seafront restaurants.

The trail begins close to Harbor Beach and heads inland along the banks of the York River. Crossing Route 103 at the crosswalk leads to the dam at Barrell’s Millpond. Built in 1727 to hold back Meeting House Creek, the dam originally powered new gristmills and sawmills at its southern end. The current dam stems from a 1922 restoration and features a footpath along its top.

Trail Options Expand KMZ · Google Earth ·

⬤ 4★ Fisherman's Walk and Wiggly Bridge 1.6 mi out & back, easy, gain 20 ft
GPX File · AllTrails · P Free · $ Paid GPX?

The path ends at Wiggly Bridge, a 1930s suspension bridge that spans the tidal flow between the millpond and the York River. According to local legend, a group of Girl Scouts gave the bridge its nickname in the 1940s after noticing that the deck moves underfoot. It still bounces, so expect a little movement as you cross.

Beyond the bridge is the small nature preserve known as Steedman's Woods. Consider a looping stroll around the woods before heading back from where you came, or continue on to York Village. The village features cafes, a bagel shop, ice cream, and a handful of small stores. The Museums of Old York also operate in town with a cluster of colonial buildings, including the old jail and a burial ground.

Harbor views on the Fisherman's Walk.

Parking in York has recently improved with two new public parking areas that both require payment by mobile phone. The larger lot sits close to York Harbor Beach, while additional spaces are available on Lilac Lane near Wiggly Bridge. A third option offers free roadside parking, also on Lilac Lane just south of the river bridge. All three options are marked on the map.

This article also previously covered the Cliff Walk, which began at the end of Harbor Beach Road and traced a picturesque route along the shoreline for half a mile. However, severe winter storms in 2024 caused intense coastal erosion and heavy damage. Local authorities closed almost the entire length of the trail and erected no-trespassing signs. Although local leaders have proposed funding to restore the walkway, there is no indication that it will reopen anytime soon.

Walking the Barrell's Millpond causeway.

A better view of the Wiggly Bridge.

The currently impassible Cliff Walk from York Harbor Beach.

External links:
Barrells Mill Pond History (PDF)
Old York Historical Society

Trailspotting nearby:
4★ Ogunquit Marginal Way (1 mi)
4★ Mt Agamenticus (1-2 mi)
4★ Wells Reserve at Laudholm (2 mi)
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The Sweet Trail, Durham NH

2026-10-07T13:54:32.088-04:00

• 4-star hike
• 9 mile out-and-back
• Easy | Gain 490 feet
• Durham & Newmarket, NH | Seacoast Region
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A reflection of striking fall colors on The Sweet Trail.

The Sweet Trail strings together a trail through a patchwork of marshland and forest as it heads towards the brackish waters and expansive views over the Great Bay. It runs one way, from Longmarsh Road in Durham to the shore of the bay in Newmarket, so it is not a loop - a fact that trail signs along the route repeatedly like to remind you.

In the early 1970s, shipping magnate Aristotle Onassis planned an oil refinery on Durham Point, complete with a pipeline stretching out to the Isles of Shoals. Local residents organized, and the plan was defeated in 1974. The fight raised the profile of Great Bay, which later became a National Estuarine Research Reserve, and a coalition called the Great Bay Resource Protection Partnership has since protected habitat around the bay.

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⬤ 4★ The Sweet Trail 9.2 mi out & back, easy, gain 490 ft
GPX File · AllTrails · Directions GPX?

P Free parking

Today the trail crosses land owned and managed by the Town of Durham, The Nature Conservancy, New Hampshire Fish and Game, and the Society for the Protection of New Hampshire Forests. Local volunteers built the trail with help from the Appalachian Mountain Club, and it is named for Cy and Bobbie Sweet, longtime supporters of conservation around the bay.

Terrain along the trail is mostly flat and easy to traverse, with only an occasional brief rocky section. Because the route passes through several ownerships, trail markers vary, but the many 'Sweet Trail' white tin squares with a blue arrow are the ones to follow. Along the way you will pass stone walls and old foundations, and several beaver ponds with lodges, dams and chewed trees. Some of the dead pines standing in the water hold heron nests, so bring binoculars if you're so inclined. Interpretive signs on the trail cover the refinery story and tips for spotting wildlife.

The Sweet Trail is a patchwork of marshland and forest.

At the trail's north end, close to the Longmarsh Road trailhead where most hikers will start their journey along this trail, watch out for the blue signposted arrows on the right. These lead to what is possibly our favorite viewpoint along the trail - a scenic viewpoint across Colby Marsh - one that seems to be overlooked by many hikers on the Sweet Trail.

Further south, the Jeff's Hill Trail cut-off can save you two-thirds of a mile each way, if you want to avoid a meandering section of the Sweet Trail and divert onto this short inclined trail.

The main trailhead is on Longmarsh Road in Durham, with parking on the left just before the gate. Expand our map to see additional parking locations and driving directions links that intersect with the trail along its route.

Colby Marsh viewed from the blue spur trail.

Shaded trail with mostly easy terrain.

Plenty to see under the forest canopy, including glacial erratics.

More marshland views on the Sweet Trail.

The Sweet Trail ends at the side of the Great Bay.

External links:
The Sweet Trail at The Nature Conservancy

Trailspotting nearby:
4★ Stratham Hill Park (1-5 mi)
3★ Little Harbor Loop (2 mi)
4★ Rockingham Portsmouth Branch Rail Trail (28 mi)
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Basin Cascade & Kinsman Falls, NH

2026-10-05T17:21:00.184-04:00

• 4-star hikes
• 1 to 3 mile options
• Moderate | Gain 260 to 630 feet
• Lincoln, NH | White Mountains
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Basin Cascade, a popular near-trailhead attraction.

The Basin Cascades are a popular stop for tourists and locals visiting Franconia Notch in New Hampshire's White Mountains. Easy, accessible trails make this an ideal spot for a leisurely forested meander past several rocky water features along the Pemigewasset River.

Those looking to venture further can follow the Basin Cascade Trail as it tracks Cascade Brook uphill into the mountain scenery. This moderately rustic dirt trail passes several waterfalls on its way to Kinsman Falls, with Rocky Glen Falls waiting further upstream. These waterfalls are best visited from spring through fall, and we have mapped and reviewed three ways to enjoy them below.

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⬤ 4★ Kinsman Falls 1.0 mi out & back, moderate, gain 260 ft
GPX File · AllTrails GPX?

⬤ 4★ Kinsman & Rocky Glen Falls 2.6 mi out & back, moderate, gain 610 ft
GPX File · AllTrails

⬤ 4★ Kinsman Falls & Cascade Loop 3.0 mi loop, moderate, gain 630 ft
GPX File · AllTrails

P Free parking · Directions: Northbound · Southbound

⬤ 4★ Kinsman Falls 1.0 mi, 260 ft
Short, with waterfalls from the start.
Kinsman Falls is the largest waterfall on the route and is visible from a distance along the Basin Cascade Trail. A closer look is possible if you locate the narrow, informal spur trail that leads down to the rocks at the base of the pool. This is a great choice if you want to see a striking waterfall without committing to a long hike.

⬤ 4★ Kinsman & Rocky Glen Falls 2.6 mi, 610 ft
More cascades, rougher footing.
Additional cascades lie beyond Kinsman Falls along a trail that becomes increasingly rough, though never overly difficult. Almost every footstep lands on a different rock or root. The trail culminates at Rocky Glen Falls, where Cascade Brook plunges into a vertical-sided rocky gorge. It is possible to walk into the gorge, provided the water level is low enough to do so safely.

Trail Bridge over Pemigewasset River

⬤ 4★ Kinsman Falls &Cascade Loop 3.0 mi, 630 ft
Scenic loop, cautionary river crossing.
For a longer trek, you can continue beyond the falls on a counter-clockwise loop that heads back down on the Cascade Brook Trail (which also serves as part of the Appalachian Trail). The terrain here is mostly easy, aside from a shallow, rocky crossing of Whitehouse Brook near the end. Along this stretch, we took an accidental detour and discovered a hidden waterfall just off the path, which we've marked on our map.

Choosing this loop comes with an important caveat: the final leg requires crossing the Pemigewasset River on the Pemi Trail. A footbridge once spanned this crossing, but it is no longer standing. When we visited in September during low-flow conditions, we had to remove our shoes and roll up our pants to wade across the mostly shallow water. Crossing at higher water levels could be hazardous. If you have any doubts about the river conditions but still want to tackle the loop, we advise a clockwise approach so you can inspect the crossing early in your hike.

Large, free parking lots are well-signposted as "The Basin" from Interstate 93. We have linked to both lots and indicated which is accessible from the northbound or southbound lanes. Expect them to fill up quickly on weekends, though a steady turnover of visitors usually keeps wait times short. The northbound side features two lots; if the lower one is full, simply continue around the bend to the upper lot. Restrooms are available at both trailheads.

Moderate terrain on the hike to Kinsman Falls.

There are many sights on the Basin Cascade Trail.

Kinsman Falls is the largest cascade on the trail.

Fall colors on the way to Rocky Glen Falls.

A rougher trail leads to Rocky Glen Falls.

Easier but longer - a Cascade Brook Trail return.

You'll find two more falls on Cascade Loop.

Trailspotting nearby:
5★ Georgiana & Harvard Falls (2 mi)
5★ Flume Gorge (2 mi)
4★ Lonesome Lake (3 mi)
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Georgiana Falls & Harvard Falls, NH

2026-10-04T22:00:00.000-04:00

• 5-star hike
• 2 mile out-and-back
• Moderate | Gain 780 feet
• Lincoln, NH | White Mountains
.

Georgiana Falls's largest cascade.

Calling this a hiking trail to two waterfalls undersells the experience - Georgiana Falls and Harvard Falls are each comprised of a number of cascades and plunges. On our visit we continued to be startled by a new spectacle at almost every turn of the trail.

The signposted route to Georgiana Falls starts by passing twice under freeway carriageways and turning right at a junction, before heading uphill and leaving civilization behind. Follow the trail as it gradually climbs uphill until it meets and continues alongside Harvard Brook. While the flow of Harvard Brook typically tapers off during summer months, the Kinsman Mountains' watershed ensures it continues running throughout the year.

Trail Options Expand KMZ · Google Earth ·

⬤ 5★ Harvard Brook Trail 2.4 mi out & back, moderate, gain 780 ft
GPX File · AllTrails · Directions GPX?

P Free parking

Georgiana Falls opens with a few small rocky cascades before reaching a larger, picturesque stepped waterfall. We observed many visitors turning around here, after two-thirds of a mile and 260 feet of elevation gain, but the more adventurous carry on to Harvard Falls. Past Georgiana Falls the red-blazed trail becomes rougher and more rudimentary, and with a brief steep section to reach the top of Harvard Falls.

Harvard Falls' main event is a 60-foot tall plunge which looks just as impressive from above as well as below. We spent quite some time up here, scrambling carefully over the rocks and admiring the scenery from every vantage point. Take your time and watch your footing since wet rock is not known for its grip. Do not miss out on the final cascade located above Harvard's tallest plunge. We've marked it on our map as a viewpoint at the end of the trail.

The trailhead offers a moderately-sized free parking area. Though this trail isn't on the main tourist route, the parking lot can still fill up quickly on weekends and during leaf-peeping season, and an early start is likely to give you an advantage.

Wide trail narrows after Georgiana Falls, gets rougher.

Looking back from the top of Harvard's tallest plunge.

A final cascade, above the main Harvard Falls.

On the unmaintained, scenic upper trail.

Trailspotting nearby:
5★ Flume Gorge (2 mi)
5★ Cannon Mountain (4-7 mi)
5★ Franconia Ridge Loop (8 mi)
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Sabbaday Falls, White Mountains NH

2026-10-04T20:13:00.000-04:00

• 5-star hike
• 1 mile out-and-back
• Easy | Gain 100 feet
• Waterville Valley, NH | White Mountains
.

The two-tiered upper section with boardwalks for best views.

The Sabbaday Falls Trail is a brief outing off the popular Kancamagus Highway in New Hampshire's White Mountain National Forest, and it is a nice stop to fold into a longer drive without much planning. The trail begins directly from the parking area off Route 112, immediately immersing you in the dense mixed forest characteristic of this elevation in the White Mountains.

The path starts out wide and graveled, easy enough for almost anyone to manage. Benches offer resting spots along the way, with views of the surrounding forest for anyone who wants to slow down. Interpretive signs along the route explain some of the local geology and history, giving a bit of context to the woods you are walking through.

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⬤ 5★ Sabbaday Falls 0.7 mi out & back, easy, gain 100 ft
GPX File · AllTrails · Directions GPX?

$ Paid parking

Sabbaday Falls is a multi-tiered waterfall that cascades over several plunges and through a tight rocky gorge. Though there is not one position where you can admire the full extent of Sabbaday Falls, a well-designed trail allows you to get great vantage points. The path descends to the pool at the end of the falls where you can climb on the rocks to get a closer look from within the narrow gorge, before continuing up a few steps and along a sturdy multi-level wooden boardwalk to help you view the tallest of the drops.

Some choose to extend their walk further along the Sabbaday Brook Trail, following the creek upstream and deeper into the White Mountain forest. After a modest hike along a path that becomes more uneven and rockier as you progress, the route crosses the brook a couple of times. If you are interested in continuing further, possibly to the summit of Mount Tripyramid where the Sabbaday Brook Trail finally terminates, check out the link in the Trailspotting Nearby section at the foot of this article.

Lower Falls squeezes through a narrow gorge.

Sabbaday Falls is primarily visited from late spring through fall. Water flow peaks in the spring, driven by snowmelt and seasonal rains that rush through the gorge. While the flow typically tapers off during the summer months, the brook's steady watershed ensures it continues running. A significant rainstorm at any time of year can temporarily swell the falls, making wet weather a great time for a fuller display outside of spring. In the colder months, winter ice prompts the Forest Service to close the immediate viewing boardwalks and spur trail near the cascade, though Sabbaday Brook Trail remains open year-round.

Trailhead parking is usually busy, particularly on weekends, but since the trail to the waterfall is short, there is a relatively fast turnover of vehicles in the lot. Parking requires a National Forest fee or equivalent pass.

View of the larger upper cascade from the boardwalk.

External links:
Sabbaday Falls at US Forest Service website

Trailspotting nearby:
5★ Mt Tripyramid (10-12 mi)
5★ Mt Chocorua (7-10 mi)
5★ Flume Gorge (2 mi)
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Concord-Lake Sunapee Rail Trail, NH

2026-10-04T16:08:00.000-04:00

• 4-star trails
• 1 to 3 mile segments
• Easy & Moderate | Low gradient
• Newbury to Concord, NH | Merrimack, Sunapee
.

The historic Railroad Covered Bridge at Contoocook village.

The Concord to Lake Sunapee Rail Trail follows the former Boston and Maine Railroad corridor through central New Hampshire. When complete, the full route will span 34 miles from the state capital to Lake Sunapee. The trail passes through wooded areas, over wetlands, across bridges - including a historic covered bridge - and provides connections to nearby communities.

At present, there are 9 miles of trail available to explore. Some sections are surfaced with crushed stone to accommodate many trail activities, including walking, running, and cycling. Others are accessible only via unimproved trail surfaces. We've explored and mapped all sections available today and describe below what to expect from them.

⬤ Hardpack ⬤ Rough ⬤ Road Biking ⬤ No Access

Trail Options Expand KMZ · Google Earth ·

⬤ ⬤ 4★ Concord-Lake Sunapee Rail Trails 9.0 mi each way, easy & moderate, low gradient
GPX File · AllTrails · MAP PACK ???

P Free parking

Our map also includes a hidden layer showing suggested road biking routes that link together sections of the Concord to Lake Sunapee Rail Trail - scroll down for more information. Our road biking links illustrate how easy it is to extend your ride onto the 58-mile Northern Rail Trail toward Lebanon, or south along the unimproved rail trails of Hopkinton and Henniker Rail Trails. We've reviewed these other rail trails in the links provided here, complete with trail condition descriptions and downloadable maps.

Trail Index & Links:
  1   Tilly Wheeler Rail Trail (0.6 miles ea way)
  2   Warner Rail Trail (0.3 miles each way)
  3   Bagley Field Rail Trail (1.2 miles each way)
  4   Stevens Rail Trail (2.2 miles each way)
  5   Little Tooky Trail (1.1 mile loop)
  6   Mast Yard Rail Trail (1.7 miles each way)
  7   O'Reilly Fleetham Trail (0.6-1.4 mile options)
  8   Fisherville Rd Rail Trail (2.5 miles each way)

Development of the Lake Sunapee to Concord Rail Trail has progressed through the combined efforts of volunteers, private donations, and municipal support. Local trail groups organize work parties for maintenance and construction, while funding from individuals and grants has enabled infrastructure improvements. The project continues to expand incrementally. Those interested in supporting the trail can volunteer for scheduled work days, contribute to fundraising campaigns, or advocate for trail expansion with local officials. Additional information about volunteer opportunities and donations is available through the trail organization's website.

1 3★ Tilly Wheeler Rail Trail 0.6 mi ea way, easy, low gradient
Driving Directions

One of the shortest trails you'll find on our website, the Tilly Wheeler Rail Trail also offers quite the variety of scenery and attractions. From woodland to lakes, distant mountain views, fitness equipment, and eateries. After parking at Bradford Town Hall, head up the quiet Church Street to find the start of the Tilly Wheeler Trail and head west from here. Before you do so, take a quick look to the east—the former rail route used to run where Route 103 now stands, and Bradford Station once served passengers at the intersection with Main Street.

This short trail through Whitman Park has been enjoyed by locals for decades and features several fitness stations along its route. Now part of the growing Concord to Lake Sunapee Rail Trail project, the route has been extended further west, running parallel to Route 103 across Lake Todd. As you cross the lake, it's clear that the project is edging closer to its destination, evidenced by a visible Mount Sunapee in the middle distance.

2 4★ Warner Rail Trail 0.3 mi ea way, easy, low gradient
Driving Directions

The Warner Rail Trail is another route that is short in length but has plenty to see along the way - from the Dalton Covered Bridge at the east end to the charming town center of Warner at the west end. The trail also boasts a novel approach to attract younger visitors, with a story walk. Beginning at the Pillsbury Free Library on Depot Street, a story is revealed page by page over the course of twenty-one podiums placed along the one-third-mile route.

We combined our rail trail walk with a return riverside walk on the opposite bank of the Warner River, where we were able to pick out an informal path along the riverbank between the ball fields of Riverside Park and the covered bridge. This was the best place to enjoy some riverside views, since the rail trail itself does not provide as much of a view as we would prefer. Also, choose the right day to visit and you could pay a visit to Warner's New Hampshire Telephone Museum.

3 3★ Bagley Field Rail Trail 1.2 mi ea way, easy, low gradient
Driving Directions

The Bagley Field Rail Trail runs alongside the Warner River and Route 103 through wooded terrain in Warner. Originally opened as a half-mile section in 2014, the trail has now been expanded to 1.2 miles including across a re-decked 100-foot steel truss bridge spanning the Warner River.

The crushed stone trail begins at Bagley Field sports complex off Exit 8 of Interstate 89 and heads northwest. Users will find parking on Depot Street, a bike repair station with tools and pump near the trailhead kiosk, and portable restroom facilities at the park. The flat, straight route accommodates walkers, runners, and cyclists of various abilities. The trail remains open year-round when conditions permit.

4 3★ Stevens Rail Trail 2.2 mi ea way, easy, no gradient
Driving Directions

A century and a half ago, as many as ten trains a day would steam across the covered railroad bridge over the Contoocook River, packed with vacationers heading to Lake Sunapee and beyond. Today, that same traffic travels up Interstate 89 on a mostly parallel journey. You can now enjoy a section of this old rail route - thankfully set back and cushioned from freeway noise by dense forest - along an excellent hard-packed gravel trail surface suitable for walkers, runners, and cyclists alike.

The best starting point for this trail is at the Hopkinton Town Library at the south end, close to Contoocook Village and what is known as the world's oldest railroad covered bridge, located next to the Contoocook Railroad Museum. Although the old alignment immediately north of the river is now built over and privately owned, Stevens Rail Trail detours through a half-mile path across sports fields and woodland to connect sections of the old rail bed. The trail mostly travels through forest, with a creek feeding marshland at the halfway point.

Eventually bisected to the north by the I-89 freeway, the trail then leads off to the east along a very pleasant, meandering quarter-mile route that connects to Warner Road. There are no parking facilities available at the northwest end of the trail.

5 3★ Little Tooky Trail 1.1 mi loop, easy, low gradient
Driving Directions

This one‑mile trail is best suited for pedestrians and includes a quarter‑mile stretch of railbed that connects the two ends of a forested path. It is also possible to continue along the railroad alignment beyond the Little Tooky Trail loop, where you can enjoy several riverbank views before encountering a cordon across the trail with a 'No Trespassing' sign. Note that this extended walk is on private property, but it may be a right‑of‑way, as there are no other 'No Trespassing' signs before this point.

We also have a separate review of the Little Tooky Trail that provides additional details, including a non‑motorized path linking this hike to the Contoocook Cemetery, the railroad museum, and the historic covered bridge.

6 4★ Mast Yard Rail Trail 1.7 mi ea way, moderate, low gradient
Driving Directions

The Eastern white pines that grow along the Contoocook River were once highly prized as masts for 19th‑century ocean‑going vessels. Today, the 1.7‑mile section of railbed that runs through Mast Yard State Forest is a much quieter place.

We recommend combining an exploration of the rail trail with a return along the single‑track path that follows the banks of the Contoocook River. Along the way, you'll cross NH Heroes Bridge, pass a power‑line corridor, and enjoy excellent riverside views. Our separate Mast Yard State Forest trail review covers this and other trails in the park. Expect a grassy, hard‑packed rail trail suitable for foot traffic and rugged bicycles. The single‑track riverside trail can also be traversed on similar bikes and is an enjoyable way to complete a loop.

We are advised that the railbed beyond the western limits of the Mast Yard Rail Trail, leading to Penacook Road, is privately owned and that the owner does not welcome public access. We have no information about any rights‑of‑way across this property and suggest that trail users respect any posted 'No Trespassing' signs.

7 3★ O'Reilly-Fleetham Trail 0.6-1.4 mi options, easy, low gradient
Driving Directions

The O'Reilly‑Fleetham Trail is best suited for foot traffic, but we've included it in this article because the short loop features a section of railbed and offers the best views of the abutments of the old river‑spanning railroad bridge—without needing to launch a boat from the neighboring Contoocook River Canoe Center.

These trails are in good condition, with mostly firm ground underfoot and very few rocks or muddy sections. We brought our bicycles onto these trails and found the route to be a fun diversion and a pleasant complement to our rail‑trail explorations. A circuit of the Loop Trail is 0.6 miles long, and you can add an out‑and‑back along the Riverside Trail for a total of 1.4 miles. More details are available in our slightly longer O'Reilly‑Fleetham Trail review.

8 4★ Fisherville Road Rail Trail 2.5 mi ea way, moderate, low gradient
Driving Directions

Presently the easternmost segment to be developed along the route, this 2.5‑mile stretch between Fisherville Road and the Contoocook River offers a hard‑packed trail through woodland north of Concord. Beginning at a well‑appointed trailhead with parking and a cycle Fixit station, the wide gravel surface makes walking or riding the entire length. This trail offers forest views almost exclusively, though we recommend continuing north on Carter Hill Road just a short distance to reach the Contoocook River.

CLSRT Road Biking Connections
There's a hidden layer to our map that shows suggested road biking routes that connects the fragmented segments of the Concord to Lake Sunapee Rail Trail. To view you can enable the road biking layer in the sidebar of the expanded map, or with the downloaded Map Pack. Road biking connections are always under 2.5 miles, except for the link between Little Tooky Trail and the Mast Yard Rail Trail, which requires a 4.7‑mile ride. We note that it may be possible to shorten this last connection substantially if riders can access the west end of the Mast Yard Rail Trail at its intersection with Penacook Road—see our Mast Yard description above concerning access issues due to private property. Elevation changes on these road biking connections are modest.

Admiring the massive Railroad Covered Bridge.

A restored caboose by the shores of Lake Sunapee

External links:
Concord to Lake Sunapee Rail Trail website

Trailspotting nearby:
4★ Mount Sunapee (1-10 mi)
4★ Mount Kearsarge (1-9 mi)
4★ Marjory Swope Park (2-5 mi)
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New Boston Rail Trail, NH

2026-10-02T12:30:00.000-04:00

• 4-star trail
• 5 miles each way
• Moderate | Low Gradient
• New Boston, NH | Merrimack Region
.

Refurbished Lang Station Passenger Shelter.

With an October 2021 grand opening, the extended New Boston rail trail celebrated a new lease of life for the former railroad route, offering 3.9 miles of compacted gravel trail suitable for two legs, two wheels, or even four hooves. Beyond the official route, we also mapped the old railroad alignment to its historical terminus at the old passenger depot.

West of Manchester, and built as a spur off the New Hampshire Central Railroad in 1893, the New Boston Railroad served two stations over five miles, tracing its way up the gentle slope of the South Branch Piscataquog River valley to the attractive town of New Boston itself.

⬤ Hardpack ⬤ No Access ⬤ Parking

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⬤ 4★ New Boston Rail Trail 4.8 miles each way, moderate, low gradient
GPX File · AllTrails · Directions GPX?

P Free parking

Although the trail follows the river, including passing by the site of the former Wilson Dicker lumber mill, virtually the whole journey is under the shade of forest. Intermittent views of the river can be spotted from time to time, but for the best river valley views, you would have to take your chance on the adjacent auto road.

There are still several things to see along the way, including dense evergreen forest at the north end, a new rustic footbridge resting on abutments that once served the prior rail bridge, the Lang Station building, and then the 4H fairgrounds that were once the base of the Pinball Hill ski area.

Picturesque trail bridge over Middle Branch Piscataquog River.

Continue beyond the southern limits of the rail trail for another 0.9 miles to the New Boston passenger depot, now a private residence, and grab some well-earned refreshment at the cafe in town, or from the old Dodges Country Store. This extended route crosses the 4H fairgrounds and runs along a wide gravel paved road, but remains a legitimate right of way that traces the old railroad alignment.

⚠ Trail Conditions:
Hardpack surface throughout, with a dirt road and gravel segment closest to New Boston. Take care at the two road crossings, which are not ideal or well marked for passing motorists.

Cycling through fall foliage and occasional river views.

The old New Boston passenger depot, now a private residence.

A bird's-eye view of New Boston in fall.

Looking for donations for a Parker Road pedestrian tunnel.

External links:
New Boston Rail Trail website

Trailspotting nearby:
4★ Goffstown & Piscataquog Rail Trails (6 mi)
4★ Frog Rock (1 mi)
4★ Purgatory Falls (1-5 mi)
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Mount Tripyramid, Waterville Valley NH

2026-09-22T14:47:23.633-04:00

• 5-star hikes
• 10 to 12 mile options
• Moderate & Hard | Gain 2,910 to 3,420 feet
• Waterville Valley, NH | White Mountains
. NH 4,000 Footers

The 4,160 foot Mount Tripyramid gets its name from its three pyramid shaped peaks and offers a genuinely varied set of routes depending on how much of a challenge you are after. The most accessible way to reach all three summits is a counterclockwise loop up the mountain's north side by combining the Pine Bend Brook and Sabbaday Brook Trails.

An out and back on Pine Bend Brook alone is the shortest option, but you might want to lean toward the full loop so you get to walk beside the mossy Sabbaday Brook and pass Sabbaday Falls on the way down. Approaching instead from Waterville Valley to the southwest, the Scaur Ridge and South Slide route comes next in difficulty, followed by the loop that includes both the North and South Slides.

Trail Options Expand KMZ · Google Earth ·

⬤ 4★ Pine Bend Brook O&B 9.4 mi out & back, moderate, gain 3,420 ft
GPX File · AllTrails · Directions* GPX?

⬤ 5★ Pine Bend & Sabbaday Brook Loop 11.1 mi loop, moderate, gain 3,220 ft
GPX File · AllTrails · Directions**

⬤ 5★ Slides Loop 10.7 mi out & back, hard, gain 2,910 ft
GPX File · AllTrails · Directions**

⬤ Scaur Ridge & South Slide [Y] 11.6 mi loop, gain 2,920 ft
GPX File · AllTrails · Directions**

P *Free parking $ **Paid parking Y Yet to review

Two of the three summits are shrouded in trees and provide no views, but Middle Tripyramid has an impressive viewpoint that looks west toward fellow 4,000 foot peaks of Mounts Whiteface and Chocorua. There are still other views to be had on these scenic trails - particularly on the Sabbaday Brook Trail.

The best views however, can be found on the North and South Slides. Although you'll have your eyes glued to the rocky terrain, there's still plenty of time to take in the impressive, unobstructed distant views of New Hampshire's White Mountains as you pause for breath on the hardest sections of the trail. The views towards the Sandwich Range can also be experienced by hiking beyond the peak of South Tripyramid to the top of the South Slide.

North and Middle Tripyramids from South Summit's flank.

⬤ 4★ Pine Bend Brook O&B 9.4 mi, 3,420 ft
Shortest route and steepest gain.
This is the shortest way up, though it also packs in the most elevation, so you might prefer to pair it with Sabbaday Brook Trail on the way down rather than doing it as a pure out and back. This narrow trail sets off from the side of the Kancamagus Highway and into forest on a steady moderate grade.

After around two-and-a-half miles the trail turns rockier and steeper, with a handful of easy scrambles before you top out on North Tripyramid. From there the ridgeline trail linking the three peaks is easy to follow, with the occasional scramble along the way. Pine Bend Brook roadside parking is free and rarely fills up.

Tackling the vertical on Pine Bend Brook Trail.

⬤ 5★ Pine Bend & Sabbaday Brook Loop 11.1 mi, 3,220 ft
Trail variety, Sabbaday Falls.
This route brings the most variety, finishing along the mossy and strikingly picturesque Sabbaday Brook. Park at the Pine Bend Brook trailhead and go counterclockwise so the steepest climbing comes first. Coming down Sabbaday Brook Trail has its own moments, particularly a steep slab of rock near the top that you will be glad to be descending rather than climbing, and a couple of potentially wet brook crossings lower down.

Your reward at the end of the trail is the celebrated and spectacular Sabbaday Falls. Closing the loop means a walk along the Kancamagus Highway back to your car, but the wide verges keep it feeling reasonably safe. Parking at the Sabbaday Falls trailhead instead of Pine Bend Brook requires a National Forest fee or equivalent pass, and this lot tends to be busy. Note that our mileage and elevation measurement for this route includes the out-and-back trip to South Tripyramid.

Sabbaday Brook Trail is startlingly picturesque.

⬤ 5★ Slides Loop 10.7 mi, 2,910 ft
Our favorite. Big views, big challenge.
This is our favorite route, combining excellent views with a challenging slide that requires some sustained effort and confidence. Beginning at a trailhead close to the Waterville Valley Resort, the first four miles of trail is a wide gentle approach that gives you plenty of time to warm up. On the way there are a couple of water features we've marked on our map - the Norway Rapids at the end of a short spur trail, and a trailside unnamed waterfall. After a creek crossing the real climbing starts. We strongly recommend a clockwise loop - descending the North Slide is discouraged.

You will know you have reached the North Slide once the trees thin out and the spectacular, distant views open up. We'd describe the North Face as difficult, even for seasoned hikers, but not technical. Slopes are consistently around 40 degrees, with occasional slabs of 45 degrees that were enough to make us nervous. In reality there's little danger here providing you tackle this route in dry conditions.

North Slide is a hard, steep scramble with excellent views.

Our biggest concern would be the possibility of falling rocks dislodged by other hikers, but since we were alone on the North Slide we didn't even have to worry about that. The North Slide is wide. We tried to follow the pink scuff-marks on rocks that indicate a well-used approach, but at some times we just had to eyeball the terrain to figure out the best way up.

After visiting the three summits, descending the South Slide is thankfully a much easier experience, but not without its own challenges. Expect to take your time picking your route around rocky scrambles, while admiring the expansive views across to the Sandwich Mountain Range beyond. The Tripyramids trailhead is large and requires a National Forest fee or equivalent pass.

⬤ Scaur Ridge & South Slide 11.6 mi, 2,920 ft
Avoids the North Slide.
This route covers much the same ground as the Slides Loop but sidesteps the North Slide, instead joining the Pine Bend Brook Trail before heading up to North Tripyramid's summit. You can expect a few moderate scrambles on Pine Bend Brook Trail near the top.

Middle Tripyramid has the only summit view.

Sabbaday Falls is an impressive sight near the trailhead.

External links:
Sabbaday Brook Out & Back (11.4 mi 3,220 ft) at AllTrails

Trailspotting nearby:
5★ Mount Whiteface (9-11 mi)
4★ Mount Tecumseh (5-7 mi)
5★ Welch-Dickey Loop (4 mi)
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Gap Mountain, Troy NH

2026-09-20T11:12:41.857-04:00

• 4-star hikes
• 3 mile options
• Moderate | Gain 670 to 810 feet
• Troy, NH | Monadnock Region
.

Mount Monadnock views from North Mountain.

Gap Mountain gives hikers two choices to reach the top, with routes approaching from both the north and the south. The two trails are nearly identical in length and elevation gain, and both offer a fantastic experience. We suggest choosing whichever trailhead is closest to you. On either path you can expect a mostly shaded woodland walk, capped off with a few short, rocky sections near the top.

North Mountain is the highlight of the hike. Its rounded summit features open views in all directions and plenty of room to wander around. Wild blueberry bushes blanket the top, and if you happen to visit in July or August they should be loaded with fruit. Bring a container to collect a harvest or just bring your appetite.

Trail Options Expand KMZ · Google Earth ·

⬤ 4★ North Trail to North Mountain 2.6 mi out & back, moderate, gain 680 ft
GPX File · AllTrails · Directions GPX?

⬤ 4★ South Trail to North Mountain 2.4 mi out & back, moderate, gain 670 ft
GPX File · AllTrails · Directions

⬤ 3★ South Mountain Spur + 0.5 mi out & back, moderate, gain 130 ft

$ Donation requested

The best view on the mountain is probably the view of nearby Mount Monadnock. You will find this viewpoint a tenth of a mile north of the North Mountain summit, taking only a short stroll to reach. Monadnock fills the horizon beautifully, making this the perfect spot for a quick snack and a photo.

South Mountain offers a different kind of summit. It's covered in trees and provides little in the way of scenic views, but it does mark the highest true point of Gap Mountain. Reaching the peak requires an extra half mile out and back along a spur trail marked on our map. Peakbaggers will want to make the detour, but everyone else can skip it without guilt.

Thankful for boardwalks along North Trail sections.

Just below the summit and a short distance off the south trail sit the abandoned, rusted remains of an old rope tow. It served a private ski hill for the landowner back in the mid twentieth century. A local trail expert pointed this hidden piece of history out to us, and we have marked it on our map and in our GPX download. On the map it can be made visible by using the Expand Map function.

Both trailheads feature moderate sized parking lots with portable toilets available. The trails and facilities are maintained by the Society for the Protection of New Hampshire Forests. Donations to support their work are always appreciated and can be placed into the iron ranger boxes located at both trailheads.

Looking North. Panoramic views from North Mountain.

Looking towards the tree-covered South Gap Mountain.

Trail bridge on the South Trail.

Abandoned and rusted ski-tow mechanism close to South trail.

External links:
Gap Mountain at Forest Society

Trailspotting nearby:
5★ Mount Monadnock (4-8 mi)
4★ Miller State Park (3-8 mi)
4★ Cheshire Rail Trail South (20 mi)
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Mount Paugus, Albany NH

2026-09-18T10:37:13.361-04:00

• 4-star hikes
• 7 to 8 mile options
• Moderate | Gain 2,200 to 2,700 feet
• Albany, NH | White Mountains
. 52WAV
Paugus South Peak views of Passaconaway & Whiteface.

Mount Paugus sits quietly in the shadow of its more famous neighbor, Mount Chocorua, and tends to get overlooked by hikers heading for bigger names in the Sandwich Range. That's a shame, because this loop turns out to be one of the most enjoyable hikes you can experience in the area.

We chose a looping trail that begins on the side of Route 113A and combines Big Rock Cave Trail, Old Paugus Trail and a section of Lawrence Trail before returning down Cabin Trail. Starting out counterclockwise on Big Rock Cave Trail the going is surprisingly easy. The lower elevations are gentle and largely free of rocks - more of a pleasant forest stroll than a mountain climb. Before things get more serious, make a point of stopping at Big Rock Cave. It's formed from massive mansion-sized granite monoliths that tumbled down the mountainside long ago and formed a human-sized talus cave beneath.

Trail Options Expand KMZ · Google Earth ·

⬤ 4★ Cabin Trail & Big Rock Cave Loop 7.8 mi loop, moderate, gain 2,700 ft
GPX File · AllTrails · Directions GPX?

⬤ Kelley Trail & Old Mast Rd Loop [Y] 8.1 mi loop, gain 2,480 ft
GPX File · AllTrails · Directions

⬤ Bolles & Bee Line Loop [Y] 6.8 mi loop, gain 2,200 ft
GPX File · AllTrails · Directions

P Free parking Y Yet to review

The trail stays mellow for a good while longer before the terrain finally steepens and turns rocky. Along the way you'll pass a rocky slide up a gully full of fallen trees that looks more intimidating than it actually is, partly because halfway up the trail takes a sharp right and thankfully detours away. An occasional moderately steep granite cap and a couple of modest scrambles remain to be tackled before you close in on the summit, but nothing to elevate this trail into a 'hard' category.

Mount Paugus' wide, domed South Peak is ringed with trees and offers only partial views, but walk just a short way to the south down its granite face, and unobstructed views reveal themselves. Perhaps the most impressive views are westward toward the pointed Mt Passaconaway. Distant views south also reveal the Belknap Mountains and rolling hills in between.

Counterclockwise up Big Rock Cave Trail first.

Worth noting is that Mount Paugus' actual summit isn't connected to any maintained trail. Some hikers like to bushwhack over for the bragging rights, but we opted to stay on trail this time around. We've marked the true summit on our map in case you're curious, and most people who do visit it approach from the west side of South Peak, where the trail passes closest.

Though a counterclockwise route of the Big Rock Cave and Cabin Trail loop is preferred to tackle the steeper climbs on the way up, coming back down the Lawrence Trail section does require some care. Loose, fine glacial till makes footfalls on the steepest trail angles a little uncertain. Once you're back on the Cabin Trail portion, things settle down again into an easy, uneventful walk back toward the trailhead.

We haven't yet hiked the Kelley Trail or Bolles Trail routes up Mount Paugus, but thanks to OpenStreetMap we're able to show both on our map and provide GPX downloads. Descriptions we've made above about the approaches to Mount Paugus' summit apply to both of these overlapping routes.

Investigating the Big Rock cave.

A pre-summit viewpoint on the Old Paugus Trail.

Better Whiteface & Passaconaway views just below the summit.

Distand southern views towards NH's Lake Region.

Trailspotting nearby:
5★ Mt Chocorua (7-10 mi)
4★ Mts Whiteface & Passaconaway (9-11 mi)
4★ Mt Israel (4 mi)
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Mount Peg, Woodstock VT

2026-09-17T12:56:14.730-04:00

• 4-star hike
• 1 mile part-loop
• Easy | Gain 340 feet
• Woodstock, VT | Southern Region
.

Mount Peg has the best view of Woodstock's hills.

Mount Peg sits right on the edge of Woodstock village, making it one of the easiest hikes in the area to walk to and knock out on a whim. The trail is mostly easygoing, winding through quiet woodland on dirt paths before finally breaking out of the trees into a sweeping summit meadow. Here, a panoramic vista opens up across the rolling hills surrounding Woodstock, highlighted by a striking view of Killington Peak to the northwest in the distance. It is a relaxed, grassy spot that offers a much more expansive and satisfying sense of space than the view at the end of the more popular nearby Faulkner's Trail.

Once you are done soaking in the scenery, you will find a picnic table and a couple of benches around a small fire pit, making it a comfortable place to sit and take a break before heading back down.

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⬤ 4★ Mount Peg 1.4 mi part-loop, moderate, gain 340 ft
GPX File · AllTrails · Directions GPX?

P Free parking

This open, view-filled meadow is not technically the true summit of Mount Peg. The actual high point is a short distance away, tucked in the trees and unmarked. If you feel so compelled, you can reach it by following the road just west of the meadow for a bit. We have marked its location on our map for anyone who wants to tag the actual summit rather than just the viewpoint.

Mount Peg is a multi-use area, and hikers share the mountain with mountain bikers and, in winter, cross-country skiers. There is history behind that mix of uses, too. Long before it became a network of hiking and biking trails, part of the mountain was used as a golf course—despite the hilly terrain that seems like an odd fit for the sport. These days, the trails covered in this article are signposted as off-limits to bikes, so you should not have to worry about sharing the path with anyone on two wheels here, even though biking is common elsewhere on the mountain.

Three or four parking spots are available on the corner of Golf Avenue and Billings Place, and the trail begins a short distance up Billings Place. As this is a quiet residential area, please be extra considerate of local residents and do not obstruct driveways or roads.

Mostly in woodland, the trail offers lots of shade.

Sunlight on the trail, approaching the summit.

Green Mountain views. Killington on the right.

Trailspotting nearby:
4★ Faulkner's Trail to Mount Tom (3 mi)
4★ Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Park (4 mi)
4★ Luce's Lookout (3 mi)
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Marsh Billings National Park, Woodstock VT

2026-09-17T10:09:37.564-04:00

• 4-star hike
• 4 mile loop
• Moderate | Gain 650 feet
• Woodstock, VT | Central East Region
.

Enjoy the rolling Vermont scenery from Mt Tom's South Peak.

Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park sits just outside downtown Woodstock, Vermont. The park honors three visionaries connected to the land. George Perkins Marsh grew up here and later warned against the dangers of deforestation. Frederick Billings purchased the farm and put the ideas of Marsh into action by reforesting the hillsides. Laurance and Mary French Rockefeller eventually owned the estate and donated it to the National Park Service. Today, it remains the only national park unit dedicated to the history of American conservation.

This loop offers a fantastic snapshot of the park. It winds through quiet woodlands and open meadows, passes The Pogue as a serene pond tucked into the hillside, and climbs to the South Peak of Mount Tom. From the summit, you are rewarded with sweeping views over the rooftops of Woodstock and the surrounding hills.

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⬤ 4★ Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller Loop 4.2 mi loop, moderate, gain 650 ft
GPX File · AllTrails · Directions GPX?

P Free parking

Most of the route follows wide, historic carriage roads built for the estate during its working farm era. They feature gentle grades and smooth surfaces, making them comfortable for most walkers, and heavy tree cover provides pleasant shade even on bright days. The only technical exception is the closing stretch, where the loop descends from Mount Tom via the Precipice Trail. This narrow, rockier section can get slippery in wet weather, though rebar posts and cable railings have been installed to assist hikers on steeper spots. If you prefer to avoid this challenge, you can simply double back the way you came from the South Peak. More trails are also available for those wanting to explore narrower trails off the carriage roads.

Mount Tom actually features two summits. The South Peak offers the best views, while the true North Peak sits a bit further along. The North Peak provides very little view, but it is a quick addition via the Billings Trail, which can be a bit overgrown in places, for hikers who like to bag summits.

Begin with a gentle walk up the wide Carriage Path.

The trailhead begins at the large shared parking lot for the National Park and the Billings Farm and Museum, just off Route 12. Exploring the park hiking trails is completely free. You can also easily combine your hike with a tour of the historic Billings mansion, which requires an entry fee or a valid national park pass, or a visit to the Billings Farm and Museum, which has its own separate admission fee.

For a different way up Mount Tom, the Faulkner Trail starts directly in the village of Woodstock and switchbacks up the hillside over about three miles. You can find that route covered in a separate review linked in the Trailspotting Nearby section below.

Great views all along the Pogue Lakeside Trail.

A dragonfly rests on grass by The Pogue.

A rare black bear sighting across the Maple Lot Meadow.

Mount Tom's South Peak Star illuminates at night across Woodstock.

Trail view of the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller mansion.

External links:
Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historic Park
Billings Farm & Museum website

Trailspotting nearby:
4★ Faulkner Trail to Mt Tom (3 mi)
4★ Mount Peg (1 mi)
4★ Luce's Lookout (3 mi)
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Faulkner Trail, Woodstock VT

2026-09-10T12:06:56.306-04:00

• 4-star hikes
• 3 mile options
• Moderate | Gain 490 to 520 feet
• Woodstock, VT | Central East Region
.

The star on Mount Tom marks the trail's end.

The Faulkner Trail begins at the edge of Faulkner Park, just off Mountain Avenue in the picturesque town of Woodstock, Vermont. Roadside parking is available nearby, and the path officially starts at an informational kiosk toward the back of the park's mowed lawn.

The route is named for Marianne Faulkner, who created it in the 1930s as a memorial to her late husband, Edward Daniels Faulkner. Having experienced the gentle walking paths designed for cardiac health in the German spa town of Baden-Baden, she modeled these switchbacks on European designs to build a restorative nature trail for the entire community.

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⬤ 4★ Faulkner-Precipice Loop 2.6 mi loop, moderate, gain 520 ft
GPX File · AllTrails · Directions GPX?

⬤ 4★ Faulkner Out and Back 2.9 mi out & back, moderate, gain 490 ft
GPX File · AllTrails · Directions

P Free parking

From the park, the path climbs the hillside through a series of broad, well-graded switchbacks. The gradient remains easy to moderate as it winds through the woods without ever feeling strenuous. Near the summit, the gentle grade gives way to a shorter, rockier stretch where steel posts and hand cables line the path to assist with foot balance on the uneven terrain.

At Mount Tom’s South Peak, hikers are rewarded with sweeping views of downtown Woodstock, the surrounding hills, and the Ottauquechee River Valley. The peak is also home to the Woodstock Star, mounted on a frame facing the valley. Originally erected in the 1940s to welcome local troops returning from World War II, the star remains an iconic fixture today. In 2024, the Woodstock Rotary Club led an effort to replace its aging wooden frame with a sturdier metal structure, ensuring the star continues to glow over the village every evening.

Hillside switchback hiking through shaded forest.

Hikers have two primary ways to approach the trek. The simplest route is an out-and-back hike following the Faulkner Trail switchbacks both up and down for a predictable, gentle journey. Alternatively, hikers seeking more variety can turn the trek into a loop by descending via the Precipice Trail and Link Trails before rejoining the lower Faulkner switchbacks. The Precipice Trail is steeper and rockier than Faulkner, making it a little slippery when wet. From there, the Link Trails offer a rougher, backcountry feel with far less foot traffic.

Faulkner Trail is part of a larger network in the area. To the north, it connects into the trails of Billings Park and the Marsh Billings Rockefeller National Historical Park, offering plenty of options for hikers who want to extend their day beyond Mount Tom's South Peak. Check out our 'Trailspotting Nearby' links for more information.

Faulkner Trail viewpoint close to the top of the trail.

Enjoy the rolling Vermont scenery from Mt Tom's South Peak.

External links:
Hiking Trails at National Park Service website

Trailspotting nearby:
4★ Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Park (4 mi)
4★ Mount Peg (1 mi)
4★ Luce's Lookout (3 mi)
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Okemo Fire Tower, Ludlow Mt VT

2026-09-09T15:04:48.477-04:00

• 4-star hike
• 6 mile out-and-back
• Moderate | Gain 1,940 feet
• Mount Holly, VT | Southern Region
.

Uninterrupted panoramic views from Okemo Fire Tower.

Perched high atop Ludlow Mountain (widely known as Okemo Mountain), the historic Okemo Fire Tower offers one of the most rewarding views in Vermont. Originally constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s, this impressive steel tower actively guarded the surrounding woodlands until around 1970. Today, the fully restored structure is open to hikers, where climbing to the unlocked cab delivers breathtaking, unobstructed 360-degree panoramas of the Green Mountains.

The journey begins off Route 103 near Station Road and the active railroad tracks, where a recently expanded overflow lot doubles the parking capacity. As the peak’s only dedicated footpath, the Healdville Trail provides a peaceful ascent, operating entirely separate from the eastern slopes' bustling patchwork of ski runs and chairlifts.

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⬤ 4★ Healdville Trail 6.0 mi out & back, moderate, gain 1,940 ft
GPX File · AllTrails · Directions GPX?

P Free parking

Marked with clear blue blazes, the Healdville Trail ascends the northern flank at a steady, enjoyable grade free of steep pitches or rough scrambles. While grand vistas are saved for the grand finale at the summit, the route delights along the way with exceptionally lush, serene forest scenery.

For those seeking a gentler approach, Mountain Road provides free vehicle access during the summer months, leaving just a short, easy stroll to reach the summit and experience the incredible tower views.

Verdant Healdville Trail stays moderate throughout.

A small waterfall on Healdville Trail.

Okemo Fire Tower atop Ludlow's Summit.

Climb another 60 feet into the fire tower cabin.

Beyond the tower for views down Okemo's South Face Lift.

Trailside shelf fungi along the route.

External links:
Okemo Fire Tower at National Historic Lookout Register

Trailspotting nearby:
4★ White Rocks Cliffs & Ice Beds (2-5 mi)
5★ Killington Peak (4-8 mi)
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Haystack Mountain, Wilmington VT

2026-08-30T13:07:52.480-04:00

• 4-star hike
• 4 mile out-and-back
• Moderate | Gain 1,030 feet
• Wilmington, VT | Southern Region
.

Rewarded with summit views across Southern Vermont.

Wilmington, Vermont sits at the southern edge of the Green Mountain National Forest, with Haystack Mountain rising just beyond the edge of town. It's close enough to reach from a quiet residential street, yet far enough to offer a genuine ascent into the woods.

Parking near the trailhead is tight, with just a handful of roadside spots tucked into the quiet Chimney Hill neighborhood. Space fills fast, so play nice with the locals, keeping driveways clear and observing posted road signs.

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⬤ 4★ Haystack Mountain Trail 4.2 mi out & back, moderate, gain 1,030 ft
GPX File · AllTrails · Directions GPX?

P Free parking

The trail begins on a wide gravel service road just past a vehicle gate. This section climbs gradually through a hardwood forest, with Binney Brook running alongside part of the way. After just over half a mile, turn left at the no-trespassing signs and leave the gravel road for a narrower foot trail. The no-trespassing signs mark the boundary of Wilmington’s municipal watershed and do not apply to hikers on the marked path.

From here, the trail continues across dirt, roots, and granite with some occasional mud possible. The trail steadily gains elevation through a series of switchbacks as it climbs the ridge toward the upper mountain. Near the top, pay close attention to the trail junction. Turn right onto the short spur trail to reach Haystack Mountain's summit. Blaze through the junction and miss the turning, and your next stop will be Mount Snow some 3.7 miles away to the north.

Some rocks, roots and mild gradient on this forgiving trail.

The summit rewards you with a small, rocky, wide-open perch facing east, and the payoff is immediate. Below spreads the Deerfield Valley, with Wilmington and Dover laid out beneath you, and on a clear day Mount Monadnock stands out sharply on the New Hampshire horizon. Look down and you'll spot Haystack Pond tucked just below the summit, while Mount Snow rises up to the north.

Don't turn around at the main summit, though. A short rock scramble just beyond the peak leads to a secondary viewpoint facing south over Harriman Reservoir and into Massachusetts. This spot offers a completely different perspective, pairing shimmering water below with long, sweeping views to the south.

Wide panoramic views looking east from the summit.

Harriman Reservoir from a second summit vantage.

Forest fungi flourish in this fern-filled forest.

Short and easy enough for a family adventure.

Trailspotting nearby:
4★ Mt Olga Fire Tower (1-2 mi)
4★ Shelburne Fire Tower (3 mi)
4★ Mt Greylock (3-7 mi)
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Luce's Lookout, Woodstock VT

2026-08-30T12:52:23.407-04:00

• 4-star hike
• 3 mile out-and-back
• Moderate | Gain 580 feet
• Barnard, VT | Central East Region
.

Climbing the steps to the rooftop lookout view.

Luce’s Lookout is a rustic private cabin perched above the Appalachian Trail north of Woodstock, and within the boundaries of the town of Barnard. Although the cabin sits on private property outside the official Appalachian Trail corridor, the owners generously allow visitors and thru-hikers to enjoy the site. Maintaining 'Leave No Trace' principles by packing out all trash, keeping pets leashed, and respecting the structure ensures this spot remains open to the public.

The trailhead for this hike is located on a sharp bend near the end of unpaved Green Gate Road, where a few roadside parking spots are available. Please park responsibly without blocking local driveways or road access. ! Note that Google Maps incorrectly directs drivers up Lakota Road - a correction for which we've submitted. Both OpenStreetMap and Apple Maps provide accurate directions to the trailhead.

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⬤ 4★ Luce's Lookout 2.6 mi out & back, moderate, gain 580 ft
GPX File · AllTrails · Directions GPX?

P Free parking

The hike begins on an eroded logging road that climbs steadily from the start. Shortly into the climb, the trail intersects the Appalachian Trail at a signed Y-junction. Bear right to follow the AT southbound. When in doubt, stay on the widest path, which consistently leads toward the lookout.

After joining the Appalachian Trail, the terrain levels out briefly before climbing again. At a sharp left turn, a signed spur trail branches off to the right. Follow this short spur directly to Luce’s Lookout.

The spur terminates at a small, rocky clearing where the weathered wooden cabin appears. A steep exterior wooden staircase ascends to a rooftop observation deck, offering expansive views across the Green Mountains. Please treat the cabin with care, leave no trace of your visit, and respect the privacy of the surrounding land so future hikers can continue to enjoy this unique landmark.

A section-hiker on the Appalachian Trail.

Unending rolling hills viewed from Luce's Lookout.

Shooting into the sun for another landscape vantage.

Exercise care on the steep steps.

House Rules at Luce's Lookout.

Trailspotting nearby:
4★ Mount Peg (1 mi)
4★ Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Park (4 mi)
4★ Faulkner Trail to Mt Tom (3 mi)
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Mount Greylock, Adams MA

2026-08-30T12:37:30.495-04:00

• 4-star hikes
• 3 to 7 mile options
• Moderate | Gain 640 to 2,280 feet
• Adams, MA | Western Region
.

Drive or hike to the Veterans War Memorial Tower.

Mount Greylock is the highest peak in Massachusetts, rising above the surrounding Berkshire hills. Hikers reaching the summit find sprawling lawns, views stretching into four neighboring states on clear days, and two historic landmarks: Bascom Lodge and the Veterans War Memorial Tower. The Appalachian Trail crosses directly over the peak, connecting Greylock's summit to extensive trail networks running north toward North Adams and south toward Cheshire.

Several trails ascend the mountain from various trailheads, guiding hikers along rushing brooks, scenic ridgelines, and old ski routes. For those who prefer not to hike, a paved auto road offers motorists and cyclists access to the same summit and views from May through October.

Trail Options Expand KMZ · Google Earth ·

⬤ 4★ Gould Trail 5.7 mi out & back, moderate, gain 2,140 ft
GPX File · AllTrails · Directions GPX?

⬤ 4★ Gould & Bellows Pipe Loop 6.5 mi loop, moderate, gain 2,280 ft
GPX File · AllTrails · Directions

⬤ 3★ Overlook Loop 2.5 mi loop, moderate, gain 640 ft
GPX File · AllTrails · Directions

⬤ Hopper Trail [Y] 4.7 mi out & back, gain 1,100 ft
GPX File · AllTrails · Directions

⬤ Cheshire Harbor Out and Back [Y] 6.5 mi out & back, gain 1,920 ft
GPX File · AllTrails · Directions

⬤ Haley Farm Route [Y] 8.8 mi part-loop, gain 2,540 ft
GPX File · AllTrails · Directions

P Free parking Y Yet to review

At the summit stands the Veterans War Memorial Tower, a 93-foot granite structure erected in 1932 to honor Massachusetts residents who served in World War I. Its beacon shines at night and is visible for miles across the region. Visitors can climb the internal spiral staircase to observation windows near the top, which look out over the surrounding valleys and hills.

Just below the tower is Bascom Lodge, a stone and timber building constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s using materials harvested directly from the mountain's slopes. The lodge serves seasonal meals and offers overnight accommodations. The open lawns surrounding the lodge and tower give hikers a comfortable place to rest before starting back down.

⬤ 4★ Gould Trail 5.7 mi 2,140 ft
Gould Trail follows a rocky single-track path beside Peck's Brook as it climbs toward the summit. Of the routes on Greylock, this is the one we enjoyed most, largely for the thick forest ambience and the sound of the brook flowing nearby.

A gradual ascent on the Bellows Pipe Trail.

⬤ 4★ Gould & Bellows Pipe Loop 6.5 mi 2,280 ft
Gould & Bellows Pipe Loop ascends via the Gould Trail and returns along the Bellows Pipe Trail. Bellows Pipe is a long, winding route graded primarily for skiers descending toward the adjacent Thunderbolt ski trail, rather than for uphill hikers. Although a climb up Bellows Pipe is gradual and mostly featureless until it steepens near the top, using it for a low-impact descent and pairing it with Gould Trail creates a varied loop that avoids a repetitive out-and-back trek.

⬤ 3★ Overlook Loop 2.5 mi 640 ft
Overlook Loop winds across the upper western flanks of Mount Greylock. Despite its name, the trail offers only a single, partial viewpoint along the way. The section passing Rockwell Pond stands out as the main highlight. Named after a state official rather than the famous artist, the pond sits in a tranquil forest setting that seems tailor-made for a painting. For those driving the auto road, Rockwell Pond is also easily accessible via a short walk from a nearby parking pull-off.

Open seasonally, spiral stairs ascend to panoramic views.

Room for solitude when admiring summit views.

CCC-built lodge in the signature National Park Rustic style.

Don't miss the picturesque Rockwell Pond.

External links:
Mt Greylock State Reservation website
Bascom Lodge website
Mts Williams, Fitch & Greylock at AllTrails (12 mi 2,990 ft)
Mts Saddle Ball & Greylock at AllTrails (7.5 mi 1,740 ft)

Trailspotting nearby:
3★ Gobble Mountain (3 mi)
4★ Lenox Mt & Pleasant Valley (3 mi)
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Hancock Fire Tower, Brodie Mt MA

2026-08-29T10:37:00.000-04:00

• 3-star hike
• 3 mile out-and-back
• Moderate | Gain 1,100 feet
• New Ashford, MA | Western Region
.

The former Hancock Fire Tower on Mt Brodie.

Likely of interest only to tower completionists, the hike up Brodie Mountain caught our attention when we set out to map every Massachusetts fire lookout tower accessible by trail. The Hancock Fire Tower has kept watch over northwestern Massachusetts since 1923, though it recently fell out of service and now functions primarily as a frame for radio and microwave equipment.

The tower stands on East Mountain, which at 2,595 feet is curiously taller than the 2,152-foot summit of Brodie Mountain three miles to the north. Locating the unmarked trailhead is slightly unorthodox: it sits along a short farm track just off Williamstown Road. The linked driving directions lead directly to this intersection, where you can drive up the track to a wooded clearing.

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⬤ 3★ Hancock Fire Tower 3.2 mi out & back, moderate, gain 1,100 ft
GPX File · AllTrails · Directions GPX?

P Free parking

Be aware that there are no signs marking the trailhead, the path, or the tower itself, and the trail crosses several private property parcels. While we encountered no signage in this area and suspect the route is primarily used for tower maintenance, public access is not officially designated. If you choose to attempt this hike, do so at your own risk, stay strictly on the trail, and respect private property. If you encounter 'No Trespassing' postings or are asked to leave, turn back immediately.

The hike ascends along a rough, gravel-covered service road beneath a shady forest canopy before merging with a power line corridor leading to the summit. As the trees thin along this straight-line stretch, you will enjoy clear eastward views toward Mount Greylock, particularly on the return journey.

At the summit of East Mountain, the former fire tower - with cabin still intact - is the first structure you encounter. Beyond it sits a tall green pole with the yellow lettering "Brodie Mt." partially obscured by radio hardware. Also, we were briefly startled by some unusual deep noises that we imagined to be those of a territorial bear, but turned out just to be from the slow rotation of the massive wind turbines that are strung along Brodie Mountain's peak. Tall tree growth at the summit unfortunately limits the chances for additional views and prominent signage restricted us from investigating for further viewpoints.

Begin on a service trail under woodland cover.

More mountain furniture atop Brodie Mountain.

Returning views towards Mount Greylock.

Trailspotting nearby:
4★ Mount Greylock (3-7 mi)
4★ Lenox Mt & Fire Tower (3 mi)
3★ Savoy Fire Tower (0-1 mi)
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Ward Reservation, North Andover MA

2026-08-28T20:34:00.000-04:00

• 4-star hikes
• 1 to 4 mile options
• Easy | Gain 170 to 500 feet
• North Andover, MA | Northeast Region
.

The Solstice Stones on top of Ward Hill.

Nobody knows who in distant history placed the mysterious Solstice Circle stones that adorn the small summit of Holt Hill just outside North Andover. Only kidding. The real story is a bit more recent and a bit less mysterious. Mabel Ward visited Stonehenge in 1911 and came home so taken with the place that she had a ring of granite stones set up on her own property, arranged to catch the sunrise on the first day of each season. They have been marking solstices and equinoxes on this quiet Massachusetts hilltop ever since.

We have mapped two of the most popular routes within Ward Reservation, the short Yellow Loop and the route that extends to cover the Blue Loop.

Trail Options Expand KMZ · Google Earth ·

⬤ 4★ Yellow Loop & Pine Hole Pond 1.3 mi loop, easy, gain 170 ft
GPX File · AllTrails · Directions GPX?

⬤ 4★ Yellow & Blue Loop 3.7 mi loop, easy, gain 500 ft
GPX File · AllTrails · Directions

$ Paid parking

⬤ 4★ Yellow Loop & Pine Hole Pond
This short trail begins with an out-and-back spur across the Bog Trail boardwalk to a viewpoint over the picturesque Pine Hole Pond. After tracking back to the main loop, head up the steps and follow a tree-lined route into a section of forest. Before that you will get some great views across pastures that look toward a distant Boston skyline. Continue counter-clockwise on the loop and head up a gentle incline to the broad, round summit of Holt Hill, where you will find both the Solstice Stones and a fire lookout tower.

The tower traces back to 1924, when a steel structure was first raised here to keep watch over the surrounding woodlands, and it was rebuilt to its current form in 1971. It is now fenced off with no trespassing signs, still part of the state's active fire lookout network but closed to visitors. Thankfully you are not missing much by staying on the ground, since the best views are already available across the grasslands on top of the hill.

Into the morning sun, on the Pine Hole Pond boardwalk.

⬤ 4★ Yellow & Blue Loop
Extending your hike into the Blue Loop leads you eastward into a variety of woodland scenes. Follow the mostly single track trail down the side of Holt Hill, then up to the equally small summit of Boston Hill, where Elephant Rock rests, surrounded by some open space and grasslands. A map can come in handy on this route to help negotiate a small network of trails that are mostly, but not always, well signposted. We chose a counter-clockwise route on the Blue Loop, though you could go either way.

Ward Reservation was donated by Mabel Ward a memorial to her husband, Charles W. Ward, and we're grateful to The Trustees for protecting and preserving the reservation's forests and grasslands. The reservation's main trailhead is located at the end of the residential Prospect Road, and includes a moderately large parking area. A small parking fee is payable, and there is no annoying penalty for visitors with out-of-state license plates.

Meadow and distant Boston skyline, from Yellow Loop.

Holt Hill Fire Lookout Tower, unfortunately inaccessible.

Much of the Blue Loop is a shaded forest trail.

Bring some imagination to the Elephant Rock.

External links:
Red Loop (3.0 mi, 280 ft) at AllTrails

Trailspotting nearby:
4★ Swamp Walk (1 mi)
4★ Middleton Rail Trail (3 mi)
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