Best of White Mountains, NH

a hiker stands on a rocky outcrop, surrounded by a breathtaking panorama of nature’s grandeur. The individual wears a backpack and gazes out at rolling mountains stretching into the distance under a bright blue sky adorned with fluffy white clouds. Lush green trees frame the scene, conveying a sense of accomplishment and tranquility. It’s a moment of connection with the natural world, where the hiker can appreciate both the physical challenge of reaching this vantage point and the beauty that surrounds them. See the latest White Mountains Trail Reviews

Map highlighting region within New Hampshire The New Hampshire White Mountains are a celebrated playground for hikers and mountaineers of all levels of skill and ambition. We continue to explore the many peaks, lakes and scenic views of the region and offer up some of our favorite trails of the region. Trailspotting focuses on day hikes, and non-technical routes.

Our links below lead you to our trail reviews that feature photography and route maps that you can use on your phone for easy navigation. Follow us with the buttons at the bottom of the page as we add new trails weekly. Did we miss your favorite trail? Let us know and we'll be sure to check it out.

White Mountain Challenge Lists

Screenshot showing trails and waypoints on a map. Challenge Lists
4K Peaks, 52-With-A-View and the Terrifying 25 challenge lists combined on one map or shown separately. With links to the shortest route to each target, our trail reviews and map downloads.
Day Hikes

The image shows a narrow gorge with steep rock walls covered in moss and vegetation. A group of people is walking along a wooden boardwalk that runs through the gorge, with rocks and a small stream visible below the walkway. The scene is set in a lush, green forest, and the towering rock formations create a dramatic and picturesque landscape. This image is interesting and relevant as it captures the natural beauty and geological features of the area, highlighting the experience of hiking through such a unique and scenic environment. 5★ Flume Gorge
Lincoln • 2 mi • Easy
Unique family friendly hike with waterfalls, covered bridges, caves and a deep gorge to explore.
The image shows a red and purple train moving along a track through a rocky mountainous landscape. The terrain is rugged with sparse vegetation, and the mountains in the background are large and dominate the skyline. The sky is partly cloudy, suggesting an elevated altitude where the train operates. 5★ Mt Washington
Sargent's Purchase • 8-9 mi • Hard
The highest peak in the Northeastern United States. In good weather even moderately fit hikers can hike this summit.
The image shows two people hiking along a rocky trail through a dense forest of evergreen trees. The trail leads towards a distant mountain range partially covered by clouds. The hikers are wearing backpacks and outdoor clothing suitable for cooler weather. 5★ Mt Moosilauke
Benton • 7-8 mi • Moderate
Popular mountain, well known as possibly the easiest of the 4,000 footers.
A tall metal fire lookout tower on rocky terrain with sparse vegetation. The sky is clear and blue, indicating fair weather. 5★ Mt Jefferson Caps Ridge
Bowman • 5 mi • Moderate
One of the shortest 4,000 footers also has some of the most epic views.
The image presents a panoramic view of a mountainous landscape under a clear blue sky with scattered clouds. In the foreground, there are dense green trees, predominantly conifers, framing the scene. The middle ground reveals rolling hills and valleys with varying shades of green vegetation. In the background, a range of mountains stretches across the horizon with their peaks creating a jagged profile against the sky. The vastness of the view and the contrast between the verdant landscape and blue sky contribute to its beauty and serenity 5★ Franconia Ridge
Franconia • 8 mi • Moderate
Super popular for good reason. Two 4K peaks connected by a stunning ridgeline.
The image shows a scenic view from a mountaintop, looking out over a forested landscape with rolling hills and mountains in the distance. The foreground features a rocky outcrop with evergreen trees, while the background includes a mix of green hills and blue mountains under a partly cloudy sky. 5★ Welch-Dickey
Thornton • 4 mi • Moderate
A shorter trail that features at the top of our best 52-With-A-View hikes.
Rail Trails

The image shows a person standing next to a bicycle, enjoying a scenic view of a forest with mountains in the background under a clear blue sky. The individual is wearing a helmet, sunglasses, and bright pink attire. 5★ Presidential Rail Trail
Whitefield-Gorham • 19 mi • Moderate
Threading through a river valley between White Mountain peaks, this hardpack trail has enticing views in all directions.
The image shows a large outdoor scene with a prominent white rocket standing vertically on a green lawn. Surrounding the rocket are buildings that resemble houses and possibly church structures, given the steeples. The landscape is mostly green with some areas of brown earth, and the sky is partly cloudy. 4★ Warren Rail Trail
Warren • 15 mi • Easy & Moderate
A rustic woodland rail trail that begins at a 70-foot tall decommissioned Redstone rocket.
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Regional Map
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