See a list of all 4000 footers in NH

Most of the trail winds gradually through the forest with stream crossings and steady switchbacks. Then, in the last quarter mile, the trail kicks up steeply into an exposed rocky scramble that spits you out onto a bare summit slab with full 360-degree views the Franconia Ridge, the Presidential Range, and the ridgeline connecting Lincoln and Lafayette all laid out in front of you.

It’s dog-friendly, doable year-round with the right gear, and just minutes off I-93 near Franconia Notch.

👉 Get the full trail guide — parking tips, stream crossing beta, and what to expect mile by mile and lots more photos!

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Mt Avalon is the showstopper of the three a short detour off the main trail rewards you with sweeping views south across Crawford Notch and northeast toward Mount Washington. It’s the kind of summit that makes you stop mid-snack and just stare.

Mt Field is the high point of the loop at over 4,300 feet and one of the White Mountains’ official 4,000-footers. The summit is wooded, but the trail between Field and Tom offers some of the quieter, more peaceful miles of the whole route.

Mt Tom, reached via a short 0.6-mile spur, is the second 4,000-footer of the day: an easy add-on with a flat, forested summit that makes the double-peak payoff feel almost too good to be true.

This one is great year-round, dog-friendly, and starts right from the Crawford Notch Depot.

👉 Get the full trail guide — route tips, map, parking, and what to expect in every season

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At just 2.8 miles with 775 feet of elevation gain, it’s one of those perfect hikes that feels rewarding without wrecking your legs. And the payoff? The tallest waterfall in New Hampshire, cascading down a steep rocky cliff into a series of pools - the perfect place for a snack break.

It’s great year-round (yes, including winter, ice climbers sometimes show up too), dog-friendly, and surprisingly doable with kids.

👉 Get the full trail guide — including the map, parking tips, and best route

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If you’re working through the NH 4,000-footers, or just looking for a rewarding White Mountains challenge, Mount Osceola and East Osceola deserve a spot on your list.

These two summits are connected by a wooded ridge with a fun scramble section called the chimney, and Mount Osceola rewards you with sweeping 180-degree views at the top. There are two different trailheads to choose from depending on your experience level, and I’ve broken down everything you need to know — distances, elevation, parking, and what to expect on each route.

Read the full guide (and see more photos) here → How to Hike Mount Osceola and East Osceola

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This 6.5-mile moderate-to-challenging loop takes 3–5 hours, with a few steep climbs and rock-scrambling sections. Teens (and adults!) love it, and the summit views from both Mount Morgan and Mount Percival are incredible.

Tips: Start early to snag parking at either the Mount Morgan or Mount Percival trailheads, and plan to hike clockwise for the best experience.

Read the full hike guide →

Other New Hampshire Hikes…

• Mount Moosilauke

• Mount Willard

• Mount Israel

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Acadia is one of the gems of New England (although there are many other beautiful parts of the Maine Coast). We’ve explored Acadia many time and love the rugged coastline with short and challenging hikes and beautiful coastal views.

I’ve put together itinerary suggestions whether you are spending 1 day or 4 days in the park.

See Complete Details and Photos

1‑Day Itinerary: Hit the Highlights

If you only have a single day in Acadia, start early to maximize your time. Enter the park (either by shuttle or car) and head onto Park Loop Road, a scenic drive that connects many of Acadia’s must‑see stops.

Near Sand Beach, choose one or two short hikes: popular options are the Beehive Trail (a moderately challenging, ladder‑assisted route), the Precipice Trail, the coastal Great Head Trail, or the easy Ocean Path.

After your hike(s), continue along Park Loop Road and pause at scenic viewpoints like Thunder Hole and Otter Cliffs. For lunch, stop at the iconic Jordan Pond House for popovers and sandwiches, with the option of a stroll around Jordan Pond or a hike up South Bubble.

Cap your day with a drive up Cadillac Mountain for spectacular views (note: reservations may be required for sunrise), then head back into Bar Harbor for a well‑deserved seafood dinner.

2‑Day Itinerary: See More and Slow Down

For two days, use the 1‑day plan as your starting point. After exploring the southeastern highlights on day one, dedicate your second day to the quieter western part of Mount Desert Island. Visit Southwest Harbor, hike the Wonderland Trail, and admire the iconic Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse.

In the afternoon, consider renting e‑bikes to explore Acadia’s famous carriage roads, a network of motor‑free gravel paths perfect for pedal or carriage rides, or book a boat tour for whale watching, puffin spotting, or kayaking adventures.

3‑Day Itinerary: Deep Dive Into Acadia

With three full days, you can embrace a fuller Acadia experience. Follow your 2‑day plan for days one and two, then spend your third morning watching the sunrise from Cadillac Mountain. Afterward, choose from more rigorous hikes on Somes Sound or additional time biking the carriage roads.

4‑Day Itinerary: Add More Adventure and Quiet Spots

Four days gives you plenty of time to unwind and explore even more. After spending the first three days as outlined above, use your final day to visit the Schoodic Peninsula, a quieter section of Acadia reachable by road or ferry, known for its rugged shoreline and peaceful hiking. Alternatively, enjoy half a day relaxing at Sand Beach or seek out swimming holes like Lake Wood Pond.

Where to Stay

Acadia offers lodging and camping for every budget. Popular choices include Blackwoods Campground and Mount Desert Campground, which book up quickly. There are also plenty of inns and hotels near Bar Harbor for those who prefer comfort over tent camping.

Below are 3 options we’ve heard good things about:

• Atlantic Oceanside Hotel

• Bar Harbor Villager Motel

• Chiltern Inn

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I’ve hiked all over the world, but living in New Hampshire, some of my favorite hikes are right here in New England. Here are some of my favorite NH Hikes.

11 Amazing Hikes in New Hampshire

• Mount Washington via Tuckerman’s Ravine

• Arethusa Falls

• Mount Chocorua

• Mount Lafayette and Franconia Ridge Trail Loop

• Mount Willard

• Welch Dickey Loop

• Mount Pemigewasset

• Artist Bluff

• Mount Moosilauke and South Peak Loop

• Mount Tecumseh

• Mount Pierce

Get Details of Each Hike

Things to Know about Hiking in NH

Compared to other hikes around the United States, the hiking trails in the White Mountains are rocky, steep and overall challenging. Don’t expect smooth trails and lots of switchbacks when you’re hiking the White Mountains. Trail conditions are often muddy year-round. Just because you aren’t hiking a 14,000 footer, don’t underestimate some of these hikes in NH.

You can also expect a range of weather throughout the year and even on a given day. Summers are typically hot and humid with possible thunderstorms in the afternoon. Even in the summer, pack a warm layer for the summit. Fall weather is drier and gorgeous but also expect snow starting in October. The fall is an excellent time to hike in New England. The leaves in the White Mountains typically hit their peak in early October.

See Details of Each Hike

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Starting from the Stinson Trailhead in Rumney, NH, the path winds gently through a forest of oak, maple, and pine. The first third of the trail is mostly steady, with dirt, roots, and occasional rocks, before narrowing and becoming slightly steeper on the second half. A few short rocky scrambles provide a bit of challenge, but the trail remains manageable for hikers with moderate experience. Seasonal wildflowers, moss-covered rocks, and fern patches create bursts of color along the way, especially in the fall.

The summit offers a panoramic 180-degree view of the Baker River Valley, a great spot to pause and enjoy the scenery. For a more varied hike, consider returning via the snowmobile trail, a beautiful, less-forested route that showcases golden ferns and open views. Parking is limited at the trailhead, with room for about five cars, but road parking is available nearby. GPS coordinates for the trailhead are 43.8675° N, 71.8032° W.

Whether you’re looking for a gentle forest hike, a peaceful fall getaway, or an introduction to New Hampshire’s 52 With a View trails, Mount Stinson is an ideal choice.

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📍 Location: Sandwich Range, White Mountain National Forest (Waterville Valley, NH)
📏 Distance: ~11 miles
⬆️ Elevation Gain: ~3,000 ft
🥾 Difficulty: Challenging / Strenuous — steep sections and rock slabs require sure footing and good fitness.

Looking for a challenging, unforgettable New England hike? The Tripyramid Loop in New Hampshire’s Sandwich Range packs three peaks: North, Middle, and South Tripyramid: into an ~11-mile loop with about 3,000 ft of elevation gain.

The trail begins with a gentle walk on Livermore Road before hitting steep, exposed slabs on the famous North Slide, where the views start early and the effort is real. After topping North Peak, enjoy a ridgeline trek across the summits before descending via the South Slide and returning through forest trails. It’s a tough, rewarding day in the Whites that demands good fitness and confidence on rock.

Check out more details and photos.

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Beehive Hike

The Beehive Hike is one of Acadia’s most iconic trails: short, thrilling, and packed with big views. This challenging hike climbs exposed ledges using iron rungs, making it a heart-pounding adventure that’s not for everyone. It’s also extremely popular, so starting early is key; when we hiked at 7 a.m. on a summer Sunday, it was quiet, but crowds rolled in quickly after.

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South Bubble Hike

The South Bubble Hike is a short, fun, and incredibly rewarding trail that delivers some of the best views in Acadia National Park with relatively little effort. Perched high above Jordan Pond, the rocky summit offers sweeping views across the park and out to the Atlantic Ocean on clear days.

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Great Head Trail

The Great Head Trail is a must-do hike in Acadia if you want gorgeous coastal views without a big climb. This scenic loop winds along a rocky headland above the Maine coastline, offering constant ocean views before dropping down to Sand Beach. With several loop options and parking areas, it’s an easy hike to fit into your day.

Get the Details

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Discover one of the White Mountains’ most approachable 4,000-footers on a scenic hike over Starr King to Mount Waumbek. This mossy, forested trail offers peaceful woods, two stunning viewpoints toward Mount Washington, and a steady, kid- and dog-friendly climb, perfect for anyone looking to check off a mellow but rewarding peak. This quiet corner of the Whites is especially beautiful in fall and makes for a great family adventure.

This was our dog’s first 4000 footer and since she was a puppy we carried her up!

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I’ve got a few more hikes you might enjoy in the White Mountains:

• 15 Best Winter Hikes in the White Mountains Region

• 52 with a View

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Located in the southern part of the White Mountains, Mount Israel offers a moderate trail that’s rewarding in every season. We’ve hiked it both in summer and fall, and while the warm-weather version brings mountain breezes and lush greenery, it’s hard to beat this trail when the autumn colors are at their peak. The views from the top stretch over the Southern White Mountains and even to the nearby lakes region, glowing with gold and red foliage.

The route is well-marked, peaceful, and not overly crowded, making it a great choice if you’re looking for a less touristy alternative to some of the bigger peaks. It’s an ideal half-day hike that’s perfect for families or anyone looking to explore one of New Hampshire’s quieter but equally stunning summits.

If you’re working your way through the 52 With a View list or just want a beautiful fall hike, Mount Israel deserves a spot on your trail plan.

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Curious which route is best, what to bring, and how to avoid crowds? Dive into the full guide here → Mount Major Trails and Hike

We love to downhill and Nordic ski around New England. If you’re thinking about trying cross-country skiing this season, check out this great resource: The Best Cross Country Ski Gear (for the Whole Family). It breaks down exactly what gear you need, from skis, boots, and poles to lightweight ski pants, jackets, gloves and more, and explains why choosing the right equipment makes all the difference for comfort and fun out on the trails

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The White Mountains transform into a stunning winter wonderland, perfect for hikers of all levels. From easy trails with frozen waterfalls to challenging ridgelines with panoramic views, our guide to the 15 Best Winter Hikes in the White Mountains has you covered with everything you need to plan a safe, unforgettable adventure.

Check out 15 Amazing Winter Hikes in NH.

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The trail to Step Falls is short: just about 0.5 miles each way, but it’s packed with beauty. You’ll follow a peaceful wooded path before the sound of rushing water leads you to a long stretch of granite ledges, slides, and clear pools. It’s the kind of place where time slows down, shoes come off, and everyone finds their favorite spot to splash, swim, or simply soak their feet in the cold mountain water.

We visited Step Falls on two different afternoons during our stay near Grafton Notch, and both times it became the highlight of our day. The kids could have spent hours sliding down the smooth rocks into the plunge pools or racing leaves along the streams. The upper falls offer wide, sunny rocks for picnics and beautiful views down the valley, while the lower pools are deep enough for a refreshing dip.

The trail is well marked and easy to follow, though there are a few steep and slippery sections near the falls, so bring sturdy shoes and use caution. Parking is limited, and roadside parking isn’t allowed, so plan to visit early or midweek if possible.

Step Falls is part of the Mahoosuc Land Trust, which has done an amazing job preserving this peaceful place. Dogs are welcome on leash, and kids of all ages will love exploring — just keep an eye on younger ones near the slippery rocks.

The best time to visit is late spring through fall, when the water is running strong and the weather is warm. Fall is especially magical as the forest glows with color and the falls reflect the golden light of the season.

If you’re exploring Grafton Notch, make time for this little waterfall adventure — it’s one of those simple, perfect Maine moments that feels a world away.

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We hiked North Pack Monadnock on a crisp November day, taking advantage of a school break to explore one of the most beautiful corners of the Wapack Range. The summit views were incredible, stretching toward Mount Monadnock, Mount Kearsarge, and even the Boston skyline on a clear day.

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Over the summer, we spent a few days exploring Grafton Notch and were blown away by the variety of hikes and scenery packed into such a small area. The Appalachian Trail cuts right through the park, connecting some of the region’s most scenic spots. Whether you’re up for a full-day mountain hike or a short stroll to a waterfall, there’s something here for everyone.

If you only have time for a few highlights, make sure to visit Screw Auger Falls, Step Falls, and Table Rock: our top three favorites. Screw Auger Falls is an easy stop right off the road with picnic tables and a series of beautiful cascades tumbling through sculpted rock. Step Falls offers natural pools that are perfect for wading on a summer afternoon, while the short but steep Table Rock Trail rewards hikers with views across the Mahoosuc Range.

For something more challenging, try hiking to Old Speck Mountain, Maine’s fourth-highest peak, or the Eyebrow Trail, a steep route with ladders and cables for extra adventure. If you’re a backpacker, sections of the Grafton Loop Trail offer multi-day hiking through remote wilderness.

The best time to visit is May through October, when the weather is mild and the waterfalls are flowing. Fall is particularly stunning as the forest bursts into color.

If you’re craving the wild side of Maine, away from the coast and into the heart of the mountains, Grafton Notch delivers. Bring your hiking boots, a camera, and maybe a swimsuit for the falls.

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We hiked Hedgehog on an October day when the last of the autumn colors were still glowing through the birches. The trail starts gently, meandering through quiet woods before beginning its climb. After about 15 minutes, you’ll reach the start of the loop, we recommend hiking counterclockwise, which means tackling the steeper section first and descending the more gradual slope later.

Like most White Mountain trails, this one is rocky and rooty, with few switchbacks. It’s a solid workout, but once you reach Allen’s Ledge, the effort pays off with wide-open views across the Sandwich Range. From there, it’s a short but steep push to the summit, where you’ll find two main viewpoints, one facing north toward Mount Washington, and another to the south with a panorama of forested ridges and rolling peaks.

Read More about this Hike

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Some of the park’s most iconic hikes include the Beehive Trail and the Precipice Trail, both short but steep climbs with ladders and rungs that lead to incredible panoramic views of the ocean. These trails are thrilling but require caution, especially for those with a fear of heights. For a less intense adventure, the Great Head Trail and Ocean Path offer easy, scenic walks along the rocky shoreline, perfect for spotting waves crashing against cliffs and enjoying the ocean breeze.

Cadillac Mountain is a must-visit for sunrise lovers. It’s one of the first spots in the U.S. to greet the sun each morning, and the views from the summit stretch in every direction. You can hike up the South Ridge Trail Loop, a moderate 8-mile round trip, or simply drive to the summit with a reservation.

For families, dog owners, or those seeking quieter hikes, trails like the Wonderland Trail, Jordon Pond Trail, and Bass Harbor Head Trail provide easy, low-stress options. Many trails allow leashed dogs, though steeper climbs like Beehive and Precipice are off-limits for safety. Acadia also offers off-the-beaten-path hikes like Sundew Trail on the Schoodic Peninsula or Acadia Mountain, which reward visitors with solitude and sweeping views

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At just 2.2 miles, this trail can be tackled as either a steep loop or an easier out-and-back, making it a versatile choice for hikers of different skill levels.

See Details for Table Rock

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The loop begins from the Table Rock/Old Speck trailhead on Route 26. To make the most of the hike, go counterclockwise: up the orange-blazed Table Rock Trail, then down the Appalachian Trail. The ascent is steep, climbing nearly 900 feet in less than a mile, with large boulders and rocky scrambles that add a fun challenge. Along the way, you’ll find several side viewpoints and even a boulder cave system worth exploring: though use caution near steep drop-offs

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For a gentler route, skip the steep orange trail and hike the blue/white-blazed Appalachian Trail out and back. This option is ideal if you’re hiking with younger kids or dogs. Older kids, however, will likely enjoy the adventurous scramble up the boulders on the Table Rock Trail.

The top of Table Rock offers panoramic views in three directions, making it an excellent spot for fall foliage or a summer picnic. Just be mindful of the cliffs on three sides of the overlook. After soaking in the scenery, complete the loop by descending the Appalachian Trail, which offers a gradual return to the parking lot.

Best hiked between June and October, Table Rock is also accessible in winter with microspikes, though the loop is best avoided in icy conditions. With its mix of adventure, family-friendliness, and incredible views, Table Rock is one of the best short hikes in western Maine.

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