Straightback Mt, Alton NH

• 4-star hike
• 4 to 6 mile options
• Moderate | Gain 1,140 to 1,630 feet
• Alton, NH | Lakes Region
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The image shows a scenic landscape view from a high vantage point, overlooking a forested area with a mix of evergreen and deciduous trees. The deciduous trees display autumn colors, with shades of red, yellow, and orange. In the distance, there are rolling hills and a lake, surrounded by more forested land. The sky is clear and blue, indicating a bright and sunny day.

Looking South over Sunset Lake from the summit.

The looping trail route that climbs the southern side of Straightback Mountain just outside Alton, New Hampshire is study in contrasts. Heading east from the trailhead is a wide snowmobile trail that zig-zags for a couple of miles up the mountain's flanks, before breaking out onto wide, exposed granite caps and partial lake region views. However, if you head west you'll head towards a narrow woodland trail known as the Precipice Path that presents steep scrambles up to the summit. Those with unsure footing will prefer to take a clockwise route and tackle the steep uphill route first.

Straightback Mountain's summit is more of a plateau than a peak - in fact it's difficult to pinpoint the true top of the mountain. We've marked the best of the summit viewpoints on our map, where southerly views look out towards rolling hills and a couple of bodies of water, including Sunset Lake.

Trail Options Expand KML · Google Earth ·

⬤ 4★ Straightback Loop 4.2 mi loop, moderate, gain 1,140 ft
AllTrails · GPX File · Directions GPX?

⬤ 4★ Mt Major Spur Add 2.1 mi out & back, moderate, gain 490 ft

Signs suggest Straightback Mountain's peak is close to the junction between the Straightback Mountain Trail and the Belknap Trail, where red meets purple on our map. However, close topographical inspection steers us to a point further north that we've identified as North Straightback Mountain which is another twenty or so feet taller. We've traced a couple of routes to reach this summit if you're looking to bag both peaks.

Peak baggers may also like to use this Straightback Mountain loop as an unconventional and less busy way to reach the summit of the popular Mount Major, with its celebrated views across Alton Bay and Lake Winnipesaukee. The section of the Belknap Range Trail spans the 1.1 mile distance between the summits of Straightback and Major on a narrow and fun traverse across varied terrain. Take care with your wayfinding - particularly on your way back from Mount Major - as there are several unsigned junctions and it's easy to head off course, as we did for a while.

The image shows a wooden sign attached to a tree. The sign is weathered and points to the right. It has text written in black that reads 'to Straightback Mt. ~ 5 mi' The background features blurred autumn foliage, indicating that the sign is located in a natural, outdoor setting, likely a hiking trail.

Without a prominent peak, signs are helpful.

On the west side of the trail between Precipice Path and the trailhead also be aware of the section of trail that requires you to take a path less travelled and navigate a short creek crossing which may be somewhat inundated after wet weather. We've marked some wayfinding notes on our map to help you avoid going off route.

Finally, don't get spooked by the surprising sight of full-size stick figures adorned with clothing and hats in the clearing just east of the trailhead. This is an artwork by Alton locals, inspired by the Silent People of Suomussalmi, Finland where over 1,000 scarecrow like figures populate the landscape. Though on a smaller scale, this tribute to the Finnish artwork has been on display in these woods for over two decades now.

The image shows a person sitting on a large rock, overlooking a scenic landscape with trees and hills extending into the distance under a clear blue sky. The person is wearing a bright orange shirt and dark pants.

Granite caps and wide panoramas east of the summit.

The image shows a person walking along a forest trail. The trail is covered with fallen leaves, and the surrounding trees have green and some yellowish leaves, indicating a possible early autumn setting. The person is wearing a red shirt and dark pants and is walking away from the camera.

Eastern loop is a wide snowmobile trail.

The image shows a series of figures in a grassy, wooded area, inspired by the 'Silent People' art installation in Finland. Each figure is made from wooden crosses and is dressed in different colorful shirts or dresses. The figures are arranged in a line, and the background consists of dense trees with autumn foliage. The scene is interesting due to the vibrant colors of the clothing against the natural backdrop, creating a visually striking contrast.

The silent people of Alton, east of the trailhead.

The image shows two white mushrooms growing on the side of a tree trunk in a forest. The mushrooms have a fan-like shape with gills visible on the underside. The tree bark is rough and textured, with patches of moss. The background is blurred, showing green foliage and hints of sunlight filtering through the trees.

Forest fungi on the trail.

Tangents:
· External Link: The Silent People of Alton
· Public Maps at AllTrails: Blueberry Pasture to Purple Loop
· Facebook Group: Comment, Follow Us

Trailspotting Nearby
5★ Mount Major (3-7 mi) · 4★ Morse Preserve (1-2 mi) · 5★ Cotton Valley Rail Trail (12 mi) · Show Map

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