Region: Northeast (Pachaug State Forest, Connecticut)

Length: ~31 miles (3 days)

Physical Difficulty: Easy

• The elevation gain is 2,848 feet, and two sections account for the bulk of the elevation gain: Mount Misery (441 feet) and about 2 miles of steep up and down scrambling through rocky ravines north of Beach Pond.
• Mostly soft dirt trails and forest roads. Some short, paved road walks.
• Water crossings can be tricky after heavy rain, but bridges, some in poor condition, span the deepest crossings. I had to take off my shoes and pants to wade across one deep crossing, but I suspect the deep water was because of torrential rains in the days before my hike.

Logistical Difficulty: Easy

• Loop trail done in three days, so resupply not needed. Only two sites where camping is allowed: Dawley Pond and Dry Reservoir shelters. Permits are required.
• Plentiful water. Late-winter rainstorms before my hike left trails covered in water.
• Some forest roads leading to trailheads are closed for the winter so it’s a good idea to call Pachaug State Forest headquarters to find where you can park in the off-season.

Season: Year-round

Net Elevation Gain: 2,848 feet

Hiking the Pachaug State Forest Loop

The ~31-mile loop that I hiked combined parts of the Pachaug and Nehantic Trails in Pachaug State Forest, Connecticut’s largest state forest at 26,477 acres.

Horses are permitted on sections of the trail, and I saw two men riding horses and a fair amount of horse poop on trails. The trails also cross sanctioned dirt bike tracks.

Trailhead parking (shown on this interactive trails map) is scattered throughout the forest, but if you’re planning the off-season loop that I did I recommend parking on Fish Road, which has year-round access. The hike from Fish Road to the Dawley Pond Lean-to is ~14 miles, ~11 miles to Dry Reservoir Lean-to, and ~6 miles to Fish Road.

I parked at Fish Road and hiked south for 2 miles on the Nehantic Trail through mountain laurel stands before reaching Green Fall Pond. Water covered low-lying trail sections, a harbinger of wet trails to come for the rest of the hike.

I stopped for lunch at Green Fall Pond, a seasonal recreation area with swimming, picnic tables, outhouses, grills, and camping. This is the southern terminus for the Nehantic and Pachaug Trails.

Heading north from Green Fall Pond on the Pachaug Trail the route follows a low and mostly dry ridge for 4 miles to Route 165, crossing Route 138 along the way. The trail turns right onto Route 165, a state highway with narrow shoulders and fast-moving vehicles, for a short hike skirting the southern end of Beach Pond. The road walk enters Rhode Island at the bridge over the pond outlet, then crosses the road and heads back into the woods as the trail winds north along the pond’s eastern shore. The trail hugs the shore through the Arcadia Management Area in Rhode Island before veering away from Beach Pond and back into Connecticut and Pachaug State Forest. This is a nice stretch of the hike that offers waterfront access for hikers, unlike across the pond where the Connecticut shore is crowded with mega houses.

After leaving Beach Pond the trail begins a roughly 2-mile stretch through rocky ridges and ravines that were filled with water after late-winter rains. The trail becomes a scramble up and down the low but steep ridges, and is the most difficult section of the loop.

After the ridges the trail flattens out, and the hike to the Dawley Pond Lean-to is fast and easy. Although it’s called the Dawley Pond Lean-to, the three-sided structure is north of Dawley Pond, on Great Meadow Brook Pond.

The map here correctly shows the shelter’s location on Great Meadow Brook Pond. The Connecticut Walk Book, a comprehensive guide to Connecticut’s blue-blazed trails, mistakenly shows the shelter on Wickaboxet Marsh.

The shelter was clean when I arrived, but because it is so close to a road the shelter apparently can be a trashy party spot.

I filled up with water at the Great Meadow Brook Pond outlet just before reaching the clearly marked shelter side trail, and recommend filling up at one of the streams north of the pond if you’re coming from that direction. The pond shore is weedy and shallow at the shelter, making it difficult to get water.

The trail heading north from the shelter to Cedar Swamp Road passes stone walls and cellar holes, remnants of long-ago farms. An apparent gravesite for a 3-year-old girl who died in 1891, with fresh remembrances left at the site, sits along the trail through this section.

Emerging from the woods onto Cedar Swamp Road, the trail heads west for a short road walk. The road climbs easily to a wide-open hilltop farm—at 600-plus feet the highest point on the trail—where the wind blew fiercely from the northwest during my hike, pushing against me as I pushed back.

The trail crosses Route 49 to Hell Hollow Road, and the road walk isn’t well-blazed. But a sign does indicate the trail’s return to the woods, which loops north off Hell Hollow Road before heading south and crossing the road again.

The trail stays in the woods for several miles, crossing and following forest roads. The trail passes the Lowden Brook Cascades, and several deep pools in the brook below the falls look like promising cooling-off spots on a hot summer hike.

The walking continues to be easy to the Pachaug Trail junction with the Nehantic Trail. At this point the Pachaug and Nehantic Trails merge and head west through a recreation area popular for exercise walking. The trail soon veers left into the woods and begins ascending Mount Misery, supposedly named by European settlers for the area’s miserable farming soil. The hike to the 441-foot summit is easy and fast, and the main view is to the east and the forests I passed through on the first day of my hike.

The trail descending Mount Misery is blue-blazed but it’s easy to mistakenly follow—as I did—a herd path rather than the marked trail. At the base of the mountain the trail again follows a forest road before re-entering the woods.

A short distance later the Pachaug Trail heads south while the Nehantic Trail continues west to the Dry Reservoir Lean-to. The trail crosses a stream just before the shelter, and this is the water source for the shelter.

The Dry Reservoir Lean-to is clean, but small. I couldn’t stand up without bumping my head.

Although there’s no outstanding view at the shelter, I did see a stunning sunset and sunrise through the bare trees.

The final leg of the hike is ~6 miles, backtracking over Mount Misery and then south on the Nehantic Trail from the junction where the Pachaug Trail splits off to head north. The hike from that point back to Fish Road is flat and easy, with a short road walk on Route 49. Although blazes are few on the state highway the turnoff into the woods is clearly marked.

How to Get to Pachaug State Forest

Norwich and New London are the closest cities in Connecticut, each about a 30-minute drive to Pachaug State Forest. TF Green International Airport in Warwick, Rhode Island, is about an hour drive away.

Trailheads: Fish Road, Green Fall Pond Road, Shetucket Turnpike, Brown Road, Hell Hollow Road, Fire Tower Road, and Headquarters Road.

About the Pachaug-Nehantic Loop

The trails are mostly flat, with easy vehicle access to trailheads. Because camping is allowed only at shelters, the loop I hiked requires at least 14 miles to a shelter the first day, and about 11 miles to a shelter the second day.

But there are opportunities for shorter loops using the many interconnecting trails in the state forest. And two shelters on the Narragansett Trail make a point-to-point hike possible on that trail, or possibly putting together a different loop hike.

Here’s the route I followed on my hike:

Day 1: Park in the parking area for about 6 cars on Fish Road in Voluntown, CT, at the Nehantic Trail trailhead. Hike ~2 miles south on the Nehantic to its southern terminus at Green Fall Pond, and at the pond take the Pachaug Trail north to Dawley Pond Lean-to. Total mileage, ~14 miles.

Day 2: Continue north on the Pachaug Trail to Hell Hollow Road, then veer south and after several miles connect with the Nehantic Trail at the recreation area. Hike west on the Nehantic-Pachaug Trails over Mount Misery, then head north on the Nehantic Trail when the Pachaug splits off to head south. The Dry Reservoir Lean-to is a short distance north on the Nehantic Trail. Total mileage, ~11 miles.

Day 3: Backtrack on the Nehantic Trail and Nehantic-Pachaug Trails to the junction where the Nehantic heads south and the Pachaug goes north. Follow the Nehantic Trail south to Fish Road. Total mileage, ~6 miles.

When to Hike the Pachaug-Nehantic Loop

Spring: April can be a good month for hiking as trees begin budding and wildflowers bloom; May is warm and still mostly bug-free. March is iffy. During my hike in early March streams were swollen—one required knee-deep wading—and trails were filled with water in low spots after a week of heavy rain. Temperatures for my hike were 29 to 45, but a few days later they reached the upper 60s.

Summer: Buggy, humid, and hot.

Fall: My favorite time for backpacking. The days begin cooling off in September, and October brings peak New England foliage. November can continue to have good weather good for hiking, but hunting season begins in the state forest.

Winter: Snow is rare, and when it falls usually melts within days, making the Pachaug a good winter hike if you have cabin fever.

The Pachaug-Nehantic Loop Terrain

The trail is mainly flat as it meanders through pine and hardwood forests. The Pachaug Trail follows low ridges north of Green Fall Pond and then rocky, steep ridges north of Beach Pond.

Mount Misery is the only significant climb on the Pachaug-Nehantic loop.

Ponds, marshes, and streams are plentiful, some next to the trail, others visible in the distance through the trees.

Logistics: Permits, Camping, Water

Permits: Permits are required to stay at the four shelters in Pachaug State Forest. Dispersed camping is not allowed. Information on obtaining permits from the Connecticut Department of Energy & Environmental Protection can be found here.

Shelters: Dawley Pond and Dry Reservoir shelters are on the loop I hiked; Peg Mill and Legend Wood shelters are on the Narragansett Trail, which connects with the Nehantic and Pachaug Trails at Green Fall Pond. The shelters do not have bear boxes or privies.

Water: Streams and ponds are close enough along the trail that I didn’t worry about running short of water. I carried a liter and never ran dry.

Route-finding: The Pachaug and Nehantic Trails are marked with solid blue blazes; side trails use different-colored blazes and most are marked with signs. Blazes are sparse on road walks but signs mark trail turnoffs into the woods.

Know Before You Go

Clockwise or Counterclockwise?: It’s personal preference. I hiked the Pachaug-Nehantic Loop counterclockwise to get the longer-mile days out of the way on the first two days, with an easy hike to my car on day three.

Private Land: Parts of the loop pass through private land, making it important to follow the camping guidelines to preserve trail access.

Parking: The Connecticut Forest & Park Association, which maintains the 825-plus miles of blue-blazed hiking trails in Connecticut, has an interactive map on its website showing trails, shelters, and trailhead parking, with directions to the trailheads.

Transportation: Driving your own vehicle is the only practical way to get to the trail.

Cell Reception: Good throughout the forest.

Trail Guide: The Connecticut Walk Book is the ultimate guide to Connecticut’s blue-blazed trails. The book is compiled by the Connecticut Forest & Park Association, which maintains the trails, and can be purchased from the CFPA or through Amazon.

Trail Updates: Trail information such as reroutes and damaged bridges can be found here. But the information does not appear to be updated online to indicate whether problems have been resolved.

Ticks: Lyme disease was first identified in Connecticut, and the ticks carrying the disease can be active year-round. I spray my clothes with permethrin and do careful tick checks of my body after every hike in the woods.

About the Forest: At 26,477 acres in six towns, Pachaug is the largest state forest in Connecticut. The word Pachaug derives from the American Indian term meaning bend or turn in the river, referring to the 9-mile Pachaug River. The forest was inhabited by Narragansett, Pequot, Wampanoag, Nipmuck, Pocumtuck, and Mohegan peoples, most of whom were driven from their lands by European settlers.

Tree Damage: Gypsy moths heavily damaged oak and maple trees in the 2010s, evidenced by swaths of clear-cut forests and the number of dead trees on the ground in the Pachaug State Forest.

State Campgrounds in the Forest: The Green Fall Campground and Mount Misery Campground in the forest are car-camping sites that offer base camps for hiking.

Pachaug State Forest Resources

Pachaug State Forest

Interactive Map of Trails, Trailhead Parking, and Shelters

Backpack Camping in Connecticut

Weather

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Region: New England (Connecticut, Massachusetts)

Length: 215 miles (14 to 20 days)

Physical Difficulty: Moderate

Logistical Difficulty: Difficult

Season: Year-round
Highest Elevation: 1,617 feet
Lowest Elevation: 0 feet
Net Elevation Gain: 30,000 feet

Hiking the New England Trail

The New England Trail threads its way through heavily populated private land and preciously preserved public land from Long Island Sound in Connecticut north to Royalston Falls in Massachusetts and the terminus at the New Hampshire border. Most of the trail follows the rocky Metacomet Ridge, with expansive views of farmland and encroaching suburban housing developments below, and at times the trail skirts the edges of residential yards and follows paved roads. Despite that closeness to suburbia, there’s solitude in the woods, especially in winter, when I hiked most of the trail.

The woods tell the story of early New England: stone walls built by farmers, a graveyard for smallpox victims, and stone caves where men fighting with post-Revolutionary War insurrectionist Daniel Shays reportedly camped.

The 21^st century tells a different story: encroaching suburban neighborhoods and battles to secure the trail’s path where it passes through private land.

And that’s what makes thru-hiking the NET a challenge. The on-trail campsites are on public land or private land with landowners’ permission, and hikers are advised to leave the trail for overnight accommodations if not staying at a designated campsite.

The southern and northern trail sections have the most sites, with only three overnight sites in the wide gap in between. Observing the guidelines against stealth camping means paying attention to when you need to get off trail to sleep. Although the trail frequently crosses roads, many of them pass through suburban neighborhoods that don’t offer opportunities for resupply and lodging.

And be aware that if you choose to stealth camp, you may be pitching your tent in someone’s backyard.

Roadwalks are the bane of thru-hikers, and the NET has plenty of them. The Western Massachusetts Chapter of the Appalachian Mountain Club and the Connecticut Forest & Park Association, which together maintain the trail, are working to move those roadwalks into the woods and establish more campsites.

Lyme disease was first identified in Lyme, Connecticut, a town near the trail, and it’s now present in ticks all along the trail. It’s a good idea to check daily for ticks—even in winter—and treat your clothes with Permethrin to repel them.

Copperheads and timber rattlesnakes live along the trail in Connecticut and southern Massachusetts, although it’s rare to see one. They are considered endangered in both states.

How to Get to the New England Trail

The southern terminus on Long Island Sound in Guilford, Connecticut, is an easy reach using public transportation. The northern terminus in Royalston Falls has no public transportation and cell coverage is spotty. The New England Scenic Trail Hikers Facebook page has information on people willing to shuttle hikers in Connecticut and Massachusetts.

Northern Terminus

The trailhead parking in Royalston Falls is .7 miles from the northern terminus at the New Hampshire border. The TTOR Lean-to is near the terminus, so it’s possible for northbound thru-hikers to stay there after reaching the terminus or stay at the shelter to begin a southbound hike.

Although Uber and Lyft say they have drivers who go to the northern terminus, actually getting someone to drive you may be a different story.

Public transportation to the northern terminus is possible, but involves planning and several steps. Greyhound and Amtrak both stop at the John W. Olver Transit Center in Greenfield, Massachusetts, and from there a Franklin Regional Transit Authority bus goes to Orange, Massachusetts. An Uber or Lyft could be possible from Orange to the terminus at Royalston Falls, about a 16-mile ride.

Another possibility is taking the MBTA Commuter Rail from Boston to Fitchburg, Massachusetts, and setting up an Uber or Lyft to the northern terminus. It’s about 34 miles from Fitchburg to Royalston Falls.

Because of spotty cell reception at the northern terminus arranging an Uber or Lyft from there is dicey. If you’re heading north the Mt. Grace peak is a good spot to arrange a pickup at the northern terminus.

Southern Terminus

Getting to the southern terminus at Chittenden Park on Long Island Sound in Guilford is much easier.

Nearby New Haven, Connecticut, is a major rail and bus hub, and from New Haven the Shoreline East train runs to Guilford, where the NET passes through the station. Hikers taking the train to Guilford walk a short distance to the southern terminus, turn around, and begin their northbound hike, passing back through the train station.

The following public transportation options provide access to the southern terminus:

Amtrak Hartford Line: Commuter service from Springfield, Massachusetts, to New Haven. Amtrak trains from Burlington, Vermont, and Montreal, Canada, also stop along this line.

Amtrak: Nationwide rail service that has a stop in New Haven.

Metro-North: Rail service from Grand Central Terminal in New York City to New Haven.

Shoreline East: Train from New Haven to Old Saybrook, Connecticut, with a stop in Guilford.

Peter Pan: Bus service to New Haven from cities in Connecticut and Massachusetts.

Greyhound: Bus service to New Haven from cities across the country.

When to Hike the New England Trail

Spring: Late March through mid-May are good times for starting at Long Island Sound. The snow should be gone by then, although late March and April snowstorms are always possible in northern sections. Late May into June can be irritatingly buggy.

Summer: Hot, humid, and still buggy. A dry summer can make water supplies low and the hike difficult.

Fall: Cooler temperatures, no bugs, and the leaves are starting to change color by late September. September rains can replenish water supplies.

Winter: Snow is rare near the coast, more likely from northern Connecticut to the Massachusetts-New Hampshire border. Still, in southern Massachusetts and all of Connecticut it’s rare lately that snow on the ground lasts more than a week after a winter storm.

The New England Trail Terrain

The trail starts at sea level on Long Island Sound in Guilford, and follows roads north through Guilford for about 3 miles before climbing atop the Metacomet Ridge, whose craggy, reddish cliffs are made up of traprock, a volcanic basalt rock. Hikers climb up and down the mostly dry ridge, high above suburban housing developments and nearby cities, as it winds through Connecticut and southern Massachusetts.

Those ridgetop climbs and sweeping views from open cliffs are repeated along the trail through Connecticut: Trimountain; Beseck Mountain, where the trail passes close to the steep ridge cliff; Mount Higby, with views south to Long Island Sound and north to Mount Tom in southern Massachusetts; Chauncey Peak, which drops steeply to Crescent Lake on one side and a working quarry on the other; Lamentation Mountain; the Hanging Hills; and Ragged Mountain, popular with rock climbers.

Along the way Castle Craig in the Hanging Hills and Heublein Tower farther north provide good views of the surrounding land in Connecticut, and can be packed with day trippers.

Soon after entering Massachusetts hikers encounter the Westfield River, which can be crossed if the water is low. If the water is high a shuttle is the best way to cross the river. Go to the New England Scenic Trail Hikers Facebook page and search for “Westfield River shuttle” to find people who drive hikers across the river.

The trail then passes the Harold Akey Tentsite, the last established tentsite until the Erving State Forest shelter some 50 miles north. A short distance north the trail climbs East Mountain on switchbacks and continues along the mountain’s ridge before descending to state Route 202.

The next major climb is Mount Tom, 1,202 feet high. The trail continues through the Mount Tom Range, passing over Whiting Peak, Goat Peak, and Mount Nonotuck, before descending to Route 5 on the west side of the Connecticut River.

The river is too deep and wide to cross, and a roadwalk to cross the nearest bridge is about 10 miles. The trail starts well away from the river on the east side and getting to it from the river requires bushwhacking through private land, so finding a boat ride across the river might not be the best idea.

Many thru-hikers shuttle to Northampton, Massachusetts, or Hadley, Massachusetts, to rest and clean up at a hotel, and resupply for the rest of the hike.

The trail east of the river starts in Skinner State Park on Mountain Road in Hadley, and climbs to the Summit House, with restrooms and water, on Mount Holyoke. From there the trail passes over Mount Holyoke, Mount Hitchcock, Bare Mountain, Mount Norwottuck, and Long Mountain through the Mount Holyoke Range. The trail through the range is packed with panoramic views and up and down rock scrambling, with a steep drop and climb between Bare and Norwottuck mountains. The Notch Visitor Center between the two peaks has flush toilets and water. Norwottuck, at 1,106 feet, is the highest peak in the range.

After coming down from the Holyoke Range, the trail meanders gradually up and down before reaching the moderately flat Quabbin Reservoir watershed, the most isolated section of the trail. Four towns were abandoned to fill the reservoir that supplies water for Greater Boston, and the lands around Quabbin are empty and protected.

Farther north the trail climbs Stratton Mountain and Mount Grace, at 1,617 feet the highest peak on the trail, before ending at Royalston Falls and the New Hampshire border.

It’s possible to do 15- to 20-mile days on the trail, making a thru-hike in 14 to 20 days within reach. Because the trail crosses so many roads multi-day hikes with stops at overnight campsites can be combined with daylong section hikes.

Logistics: Permits, Camping, Water

Permits: No permits are needed to hike the New England Trail.

Camping: Some of the designated camping sites, such as the Richardson-Zlogar Cabin in Massachusetts, require reservations. Fires are not allowed at campsites in Connecticut, and stealth camping along the trail is discouraged. Trail maintainers are working to add more overnight sites.

The sites from south to north are: Godman Group Campsite, Cattails Shelter, Lamentation Mountain Primitive Tentsite, Windsor Locks Scouts Primitive Tentsite, Harold Akey Tentsite, Mt. Holyoke Outing Club Cabin, Wendell State Forest Lean-to, Richardson-Zlogar Cabin, Mt. Grace Lean-to, and TTOR Lean-to at Royalston Falls. Campsite details can be found here.

Campsites are nicely spaced between the southern terminus and Lamentation Mountain Primitive Tentsite and between the Wendell State Forest Lean-to and the TTOR Lean-to at Royalston Falls near the northern terminus. But the long gap between Lamentation Mountain and the Windsor Locks Tentsite may require getting off trail for the night. The same goes for the gap between the Connecticut River and the Wendell State Forest Lean-to.

The Richardson-Zlogar Cabin, with its wide open vista east to Mount Grace and Mount Monadnock, and a beautiful sunrise view, is the gem of the trail’s shelters. The cabin is locked and needs to be reserved online to get the lock code. It’s also possible, but not necessary, to reserve the tentsites as they rarely fill up.

Although the NET website lists the Mt. Holyoke Outing Club Cabin as an overnight site, the guidelines on picking up and returning a key make the cabin an impractical option.

The Windsor Locks tentsite is near Bradley International Airport, and planes taking off frequently passed noisily overhead while I camped there; the lights from one plane lit up my tent.

Water: Few of the campsites have natural water sources, and water can be scarce along the trail from Long Island Sound to the northern end of the Holyoke Range. Some overnight sites have water caches, but it’s best not to rely on them. Water is easier to find north of the Holyoke Range.

Route-finding: The trail is marked with blue blazes in Connecticut, white blazes through Massachusetts. M&M signs (Metacomet and Monadnock, the trail name in Massachusetts before it became the New England National Scenic Trail) are nailed to trees alongside white blazes in northern Massachusetts. Numerous side paths cross the NET, so paying attention to blazes is important. If your mind wanders in thought on trail like my does it’s easy to miss a turn blaze and head down a side path instead of staying on the NET. And keep in mind that sometimes at trail junctions the most heavily used path that lies ahead might not be the NET.

Rivers: The Westfield River in Massachusetts can be waded if the water is low. The roadwalk around the river crossing is 3.7 miles on busy roads, so it’s best to arrange a ride if the river is high. The Connecticut River in Massachusetts can be crossed by roadwalking 10.2 miles along high-speed, high-traffic roads. Some hikers arrange a ride to lodging in Northampton or Hadley after the trail reaches the western bank of the Connecticut, resupply, and resume walking the trail the next day on the eastern bank.

Parking: The NET website has an interactive map that shows parking areas along the trail, describes how many cars each spot fits, whether they’re lots or road shoulders, and provides directions to them.

Trail Angels: Some people along the trail help with rides, lodging, and water caches, but there isn’t a well-established system of hostels and shuttle drivers. Search the New England Scenic Trail Facebook page for people willing to shuttle hikers or post on the page that you’re looking for a ride.

Know Before You Go

On to Canada: It is possible to hike from Long Island Sound in Connecticut to Canada following the NET; the New Hampshire Metacomet & Monadnock Trail and the Monadnock-Sunapee Greenway in Southern New Hampshire; and the Cohos Trail in northern New Hampshire. Several options link the Greenway to the Cohos Trail, with information about them on the NET to Cohos Trail Facebook page.

North or South?: Which direction to hike can depend on the season or how you’re getting to and from the termini. If you’re starting in late winter or early spring setting off at Long Island Sound makes it less likely to encounter snow in the north. Starting in the north during the fall means hiking with the foliage as it changes color north to south.

Arranging transportation to the northern terminus is complicated, while southern terminus transportation is easy because the trail passes through a train station a short walk from the terminus. So hiking south means getting the complicated trip planning out of the way and scoring an easy ride at the end of your hike.

Spur Trail: A ~28-mile NET spur trail runs from near Broomstick Ledges in Guilford to the Connecticut River in Middletown, Connecticut. Once at the river, it’s necessary to backtrack to the main NET. The spur is considered part of the New England Trail, but is it part of a thru-hike? Many thru-hikers walk past the spur trail. The NET website, however, says hikers have to walk every mile of the trail to get an NET finisher patch.

Resupply: Meriden, Connecticut, and Hadley are good jumping-off points for lodging and resupply. Small restaurants and stores on or near the trail also provide food options, but north of Hadley lodging and food stores are far from the trail. The trail passes through the parking lot of Guida’s Restaurant on Route 66 between Beseck and Higby mountains in Connecticut, making it a favorite thru-hiker stop. The trail also passes through the small village of Tariffville, Connecticut, which has some restaurants.

Cell Reception: Cell phone reception is good from Long Island Sound through the northern end of the Holyoke Range. After that it’s good on peaks, but not reliable down low.

Trail Guides: Paper maps of the New England Trail—one for Connecticut, one for Massachusetts—are available here. The maps show trail section mileage but not elevation. The NET online interactive map gives information on camping, directions to trail parking, and section mileage. FarOut has an NET app.

Gun Ranges: Multiple gun ranges and an archery range are near or right next to the trail in Connecticut and Massachusetts.

One of 11: The New England Trail is one of 11 National Scenic Trails. The others are the Appalachian Trail, Arizona Trail, Continental Divide Trail, Florida Trail, Ice Age Trail, Natchez Trace, North Country Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, Pacific Northwest Trail, and Potomac Heritage Trail.

National Park Status: The New England Trail was granted national park status by the U.S. National Park Service in late 2023.

NET’s Origins: The New England Trail was designated a National Scenic Trail in 2009, and is comprised primarily of the historic Mattabesett, Menunkatuk, Metacomet, and Monadnock trails in Connecticut and Massachusetts. Those trail names are still used along sections of the NET.

New England Trail Resources

The New England Trail: Trail website with an interactive map showing campsites and parking. Maps of the trail through Connecticut and Massachusetts are also available.

FarOut: Mobile app of the NET available.

Amtrak

Shoreline East

Metro-North

Peter Pan bus

Greyhound bus

The post The New England National Scenic Trail appeared first on Backpacking Routes.

Region: New England (Maine)

Length: 99.4 miles (5 – 10 days)

Physical Difficulty: Moderate

Logistical Difficulty: Easy

Season: Spring, summer, fall
Total Elevation Gain: ~15,000 feet
Maximum Elevation: 3,654 feet

Hiking the 100-Mile Wilderness

BPR editor Hugh Owen was 22 when he hiked the Appalachian Trail through the 100-Mile Wilderness in 1975 on his first long-distance backpacking trip, carrying close to 50 pounds on his back and barely enough food. He wore cotton clothes and was woefully short of warm layers.

He picked up a trail partner on his second day, and met maybe six other hikers in the Wilderness. It’s a trip that started his love for backpacking.

Hugh relied on youthful hubris during his hike, but the Wilderness is not to be taken lightly. It’s rugged in sections, and isolated. A food resupply is recommended for anyone taking more than 5 days to hike.

But the rewards are immense for those who prepare physically and mentally.

The northern section is filled with remote lakes. Farther south the trail crosses several peaks with stunning views of the lake-studded land below.

And at night the sky is ablaze with stars in an area designated as an International Dark Sky Park.

Starting at Abol Bridge and heading south the AT is relatively easy as it skirts the lakes. The three main climbs in the early section are over Rainbow Ledges and Nesuntabant and Little Boardman mountains.

The AT briefly follows the same path as the Great Circle Trail near Nahmakanta Lake.

The terrain becomes more challenging as it enters the White Cap Range, climbing steeply to White Cap Mountain (3,654 feet).

The view from White Cap takes in the lakes to the north, and for hikers coming from the south, their first view of Katahdin in the distance. The trail continues over Hay, West Peak, and Gulf Hagas mountains before descending to the West Branch of the Pleasant River.

The trail begins climbing again to cross the Barren-Chairback Range and its five peaks: Chairback, Columbus, Third, Fourth, and Barren. The views through the range are some of the best in the Wilderness.

The trail also passes East Chairback, West Chairback, and Cloud ponds, geographically known as tairns, bodies of water created by the scouring of glaciers.

The trail drops after Barren Mountain and continues on a mostly flat path to Monson. Water crossings can be difficult at Long Pond and Big and Little Wilson Streams. Near the Little Wilson Stream crossing the trail passes Little Wilson Falls, the highest waterfall on the AT in Maine.

The Wilderness ends at Maine Route 15, 3.5 miles north of Monson.

How to Get to the 100-Mile Wilderness

Access to the Wilderness is from Abol Bridge in Millinocket, Maine, in the north and from Maine Route 15 in Monson in the south. The Appalachian Trail Hostel & Outfitters in Millinocket and Shaw’s Hiker Hostel in Monson provide lodging and long-distance shuttles.

The nearest airport is Bangor International, about 72 miles from Millinocket and 56 miles from Monson.

Cyr Bus Line stops in Medway, about 11 miles from Millinocket, on its daily run between the Concord Coach Lines station at 1039 Union St. in Bangor and Caribou, Maine. The bus leaves from the station across the street from the airport at 5:30 p.m. daily, and arrives in Medway at 6:40 p.m. An Appalachian Trail Hostel shuttle can pick you up in Medway.

The hostel has a daily 9 a.m. shuttle to the Medway Cyr bus stop, where you can catch the 9:30 a.m. bus to Bangor.

The shuttles are primarily for overnight guests, but non-guests can make arrangements for one.

Concord Coach Lines travels to Bangor from Boston, Massachusetts; New York City; and multiple cities and towns in Maine and New Hampshire.

Greyhound also has a bus that runs to 360 Odlin Road in Bangor from Boston and New York City. The station is about 3 miles from the airport.

Cars can be parked long-term at Abol Bridge while hiking the Wilderness, and can be parked at Shaw’s for $1 a day.

When to Hike the 100-Mile Wilderness

Mid June to early July is a good weather window for early-season hiking, though bugs can be bothersome. Summer is hot, humid, and buggy, and best avoided. September after Labor Day and early October are mostly cool, and the foliage begins turning in late September. Youth groups often overwhelm campsites in the summer. Southbound Appalachian Trail hikers typically begin their trip from Katahdin through the Wilderness in June, and northbound thru-hikers begin trickling through in July. September brings a crush of northbound thru-hikers.

100-Mile Wilderness Terrain

The trail crosses streams that need to be forded, and some of the crossings can be difficult. Some hikers carry water shoes for water crossings; others wade through with shoes on and empty out the water on the opposite shoe.

The terrain varies from soft duff to rocks that can be slippery when wet.

White Cap Mountain is the highest peak at 3,654 feet.

Logistics: Permits, Camping, Water

Permits: No permits needed for the Wilderness, but one may be needed to hike Katahdin north of the Wilderness.

This is from the Baxter State Park website:

“All backpackers who enter or exit the Park via the A.T. need a permit. In order to stay at the Birches Long Distance Hiker Campsite, hikers should have completed at least 100 miles of the A.T. contiguous to the Park immediately prior to entering the Park. In other words, they should have hiked continuously northward—without leaving the A.T.—from Monson or a point farther south.”

Camping: Shelters and hardened tentsites are abundant along the Appalachian Trail, but be wary of shelter mice that are adept at getting into food. Campfires in the Wilderness are allowed only at shelters and designated campsites. Campsites and lean-tos designated on the Maine Appalachian Trail Club maps have privies, but no bear boxes. Dispersed camping is allowed on the trail except near Nahmakanta Lake.

Water: The trail passes many streams and ponds, and it’s a good idea to filter or purify water. Most shelters and campsites have reliable water sources.

Resupply, Shuttles, and Lodging

Shaw’s Hiker Hostel, Monson: Hearty breakfast, rooms, food drops, shuttles, hiker-friendly gear and food store

The Lakeshore House, Monson: Lodging, restaurant,

100 Mile Wilderness Adventures and Outfitters, Monson: Lodging, shuttle

Appalachian Trail Hostel & Outfitters, Millinocket: Rooms, shuttles, food drops, hiker friendly gear and food store

Whitehouse Landing Camps: Not a resupply stop, but a chance to sleep in a dry bed, wash clothes, and eat a home-cooked meal. Sound the horn once at a dock and the owner will cross Pemadumcook Lake in a boat when he has time.

Know Before You Go

The 100-Mile Wilderness is as wild as it gets in New England, but it’s not totally cut off from civilization. Logging roads pass through the forest, and hunting and fishing camps dot the many lakes.

The logging roads provide access to the Wilderness so it’s possible to resupply during a thru-hike or do a section hike. As logging has declined in the Wilderness conservation groups and the state of Maine have purchased land, and 330,000 acres of the Wilderness are now conserved forests.

Cell phone coverage is spotty, with the best coverage on peaks, so it’s a good idea to carry a satellite communicator.

Should you hike north or south? Hiking north gets the hardest section out of the way first; hiking south lets you ease into the trail and save the peaks for the end. Another possibility is to section hike using a shuttle.

100-Mile Wilderness Resources

Maine Appalachian Trail Club: The Appalachian Trail Guide for Maine can be purchased online at the MATC website. Maps 1-3 cover the 100-Mile Wilderness.

Appalachian Mountain Club: The club’s Moose Point Cabin, Gorman Chairback Lodge and Cabins, Little Lyford Lodge and Cabins, and Medishwa Lodge and Cabins are near or within the Wilderness, and provide good opportunities for day hiking.

Appalachian Trail Visitor Center, Monson

FarOut: The app has a guide for the Appalachian Trail in Maine.

Shaw’s Hiker Hostel

Appalachian Trail Hostel & Outfitters

Baxter State Park

atweather.org

BPR editor Hugh Owen hiked the 100-Mile Wilderness southbound in September 1975 as part of an Appalachian Trail hike through New England. BPR co-founder Maggie Slepian passed through the Wilderness at the end of her northbound AT thru-hike much later.

The post The 100-Mile Wilderness appeared first on Backpacking Routes.

Region: New England (Nahmakanta Public Lands, Maine)
Length: ~30 miles (2-4 days)

Physical Difficulty: Easy

Logistical Difficulty: Easy

Season: Spring, summer, fall

Total Elevation Gain: ~3,000 feet

Hiking The Great Circle Trail

The Great Circle Trail links 14 miles of new trails with existing trails in Maine’s Nahmakanta Public Lands, 43,000 acres of state-owned wilderness within the vast 100-Mile Wilderness. The trail connects seven pond-side campsites with options for exploring side trails that lead to other ponds deep in the wilderness.

The route was conceived in 2005 and finished in fall 2021, linking the Turtle Ridge Loop Trail, the Debsconeag Backcountry Trail, and two sections of the Appalachian Trail with newly carved-out sections. Seven primitive campsites are on ponds along the trail, making this an easy loop hike taking 2 to 4 days. The highest mountain on the loop is tree-covered Wadleigh Mountain at 1,866 feet.

The new trail sections are clearly marked as the Great Circle Trail, but the established sections carry their original names, making it difficult to know that you’re on the right path. Trail creator Jay Hall, whom I met during my hike, says GCT signs with mileage will be put on the older, established trails.

I used the Nahmakanta Public Lands map to follow the route, but still missed a trail turnoff at one junction. The new and established sections of the Great Circle Trail are marked with blue blazes, but so are other trails throughout the area. And the AT is white-blazed, with no indication that the GCT follows it.

I hiked the loop going counterclockwise in four days, taking my time to explore side trails to ponds, Tumbledown Dick Falls, and viewpoints, and climbing the rocky ledges of Turtle Ridge for a view of Sing Sing Pond below. The trail could be hiked in as few as two days, but what’s the rush?

Day 1: Park at the Turtle Ridge Loop Trailhead on Jo-Mary Road, and turn left (north) out of the parking lot onto the road. The Great Circle Trail-Tumbledown Section enters the woods on the right after about 100 feet and is marked with a sign. After about half a mile you’ll pass Leavitt Pond and a small campsite. Shortly afterward is the Tumbledown Dick Pond campsite, and a short distance later is Tumbledown Dick Falls. I recommend hiking a steep ~400 feet down a side trail to a pool at the base of the falls, especially on a hot day when you could take a cool dip.

The Tumbledown Section soon ends at the AT. Turn left (north) onto the AT and follow the white blazes to a dirt road on the south shore of Nahmakanta Lake. The AT continues straight, but GCT hikers turn right on the road, following a sign that points to the Debsconeag Backcountry. There are no blazes on the road. After about a mile reach a parking area on the left, where a sign points to the blue-blazed trail through the Debsconeag Backcountry. Follow the trail past Fifth Debsconeag Pond, over a small ridge, and drop down to Sixth Debsconeag Pond and a campsite on its shores.

Day 2: Continue following the Debsconeag Backcountry Trail, eventually turning away from Sixth Debsconeag Pond and crossing a low ridge to 1,100-acre Nahmakanta Lake. Follow the trail past the north shore of the lake and bear left at a sign for the West Trailhead. Shortly after crossing a log bridge the trail splits, and both trails have blue blazes. Bear left to stay on the GCT; the trail to the right continues to Eighth Debsconeag Pond.

Ford Rainbow Stream a short distance later, and then turn right on a dirt road. Reach the white-blazed AT after about half a mile and turn left on the AT. Right on the AT heads north to Katahdin.

The AT runs alongside Pollywog Gorge, and soon after the gorge you’ll turn right at a GCT-Pollywog Section sign. Once again you’ll be following the blue blazes of the GCT. The trail passes Pollywog Pond and eventually reaches the Pollywog Pond South Campsite.

Not long after Pollywog Pond the trail comes out to a dirt road on the north end of Wadleigh Pond. Turn right here and cross the pond outlet bridge. Left after the bridge leads to the group campsite and tent platform on the pond and right continues on the trail. There are two shelters and an old stone fireplace and chimney at the group campsite in a meadow, and a tent platform in the woods. Wood steps lead down to the pond and a great view.

Day 3: A woods road behind the shelters leads back to the trail, where you’ll bear left. After a short distance bear left again, following GCT signs. At another woods road bear left, and then make a quick right. The climb to tree-lined Wadleigh Mountain is moderate, and a side trail below the summit leads to a view of Katahdin.

The descent from the summit is briefly steep, then levels out through wet areas near Third Musquatch Pond. A short trail at the pond’s southern end leads to the Third Musquatch Pond campsite.

Continue on the GCT to the Katahdin View parking area, bear left onto the road and then right into the woods. Follow the GCT to the junction with the Turtle Ridge Loop Trail, where you’ll bear right. Shortly afterward cross the Sing Sing Pond outlet and bear left to the campsite. It’s about 3 miles from the campsite to the car, easily done in 90 minutes. I chose to camp at the pond and climb the Turtle Ridge Trail to Turtle Ridge and a great view of the pond.

Day 4: It’s ~3 smooth miles to your car on Jo-Mary Road. Continue alongside the pond and turn left at the sign for Rabbit Pond, then right at a second sign for Rabbit Pond. At this second junction I went left on day 3 to climb Turtle Ridge. The GCT crosses steppingstones at the Rabbit Pond outlet and climbs gradually along ledges, where you’ll have to keep an eye out for the East Trailhead sign on the left. (This where I missed the sign and continued straight by mistake.) After this junction it’s a quick walk to the road, where you’ll turn left to reach the parking lot a short distance away.

How to Get to the Great Circle Trail

Easiest Access: Turtle Ridge Loop Trailhead on Jo-Mary Road in the Nahmakanta Public Lands. I plugged Turtle Ridge Loop Trailhead into Google Maps and followed the directions from my home in Connecticut to the trailhead.

Katahdin View Trailhead: Located here on Google Maps.

From Greenville: This state brochure has complicated directions from Greenville.

Closest Towns: Millinocket, Greenville, Brownville

When to Hike the Great Circle Trail

The trail can be hiked June through October, though September and early October are probably the best months. June can be brutally buggy, and July and August can be uncomfortably hot and humid. The weather cools and the bugs mostly disappear in September and October. Light snow is possible in late September and early October, and heavier snow is always a chance in late October.

Great Circle Trail Terrain

The tread is mostly soft pine duff, with some rooty and rocky sections. There’s very little elevation gain, making this a great trail for a relaxing hike.

Logistics: Camping, Fees, Water

Camping: Seven pond-side campsites are spaced less than ~8 miles apart; Wadleigh Pond with its two shelters and wide open pond access is the jewel of the sites. Camping is free at all sites, and all have fire rings, pit toilets, and water access; some have picnic tables.

Hiking counterclockwise from the Turtle Ridge Loop Trail parking area the campsites are at Leavitt Pond, Tumbledown Dick Pond, Sixth Debsconeag Pond, Pollywog Pond, Wadleigh Pond (referred to as group site on signs), Third Musquatch Pond, and Sing Sing Pond.

Fees: Jo-Mary Road is a private road maintained for commercial logging, and recreational users pay a fee. Find information about the road here. There’s a checkpoint registration and pay station just north of the Jo-Mary Road junction with Route 11, and from there it’s a slow 16 miles to the Turtle Ridge Loop Trailhead parking. Logging trucks travel fast on the dirt road so it’s best to keep to the right and be alert.

Water: Every campsite is on a pond, which makes gathering water for meals easy, and there are frequent stream crossings. I carried a liter of water, filling up as needed when I passed a pond or stream.

Great Circle Trail Know Before You Go

Fishing: Because the ponds are close together it’s possible to arrive at camp early and spend time fishing. Information about Maine fishing licenses is here.

Maps: The GCT is marked on a map of the Nahmakanta Public Lands found here.

Trail History: Work on the GCT started in 2005 under the guidance of Jay Hall, Maine Parks and Lands’ Nahmakanta Unit forester, with help from the Maine Conservation Corps, the Maine Appalachian Trail Club, Caribou Parks & Recreation Department, and Unity College. Several years ago professional trail contractors were brought in. The trail opened in September 2021.

Jay says his trail planning, construction and maintenance experience in California, Oregon, Colorado, New Hampshire and Maine allowed him to pioneer trail routes efficiently, saving time that he needed for his timber management obligations in Nahmakanta. His youngest son helped finish some key projects, such as packing in and installing 120 trail signs and building the stone staircase at Wadleigh outlet.

Now retired, he plans to volunteer a few days each year to complete some items left from the final “punch list” of trail work.

Some of that work involves putting up GCT trail signs on old trails, and moving the trail off Fourth Debsconeag Lake Road from Nahmakanta Stream Bridge to the southeast Debsconeag trailhead. Because the bridge is in the AT corridor, relocating the trail will require coordination with MATC and National Park Service staff.

About the Nahmakanta Public Lands: The state-owned land encompasses 43,000 acres of forests and low mountains, streams and brooks coursing down steep slopes and running through narrow gorges, 24 ponds covering 10 or more acres, and more than 50 miles of undeveloped shoreline. Within the Nahmakanta Public Lands is Maine’s largest ecological reserve, 11,802 acres that include much of the 9,200-acre roadless area known as the Debsconeag Backcountry. Read the state’s brochure about the land here. Note that the map with this brochure does not show the new sections of the GCT

About the 100-Mile Wilderness: Since the Appalachian Mountain Club began its Maine Woods Initiative in 2003, the organization has acquired and permanently protected more than 100,000 acres of forest and fish habitat in Maine’s 100-Mile Wilderness. The Wilderness stretches from Monson, Maine, to Baxter State Park, and surrounds the GCT. The AT is the most popular trail for hiking through the Wilderness.

Resources

North Maine Woods

Download a map of the trail here

Check the weather forecast here.

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The Waterville Valley Skyline Loop is a challenging New Hampshire hike, covering 15 trails and nine peaks. The entire loop is roughly 34 miles long and has about 10,150 feet of elevation gain. This is not for the faint of heart, but the rewards are worth the effort.

Region: New England (White Mountain National Forest, New Hampshire)
Distance: 34 miles, 2-4 days

Physical Difficulty: Difficult

• Weather changes in the White Mountains must be monitored
• Rocky climbs for the ascents of Mt. Tecumseh, Mt. Osceola, East Osceola and North Tripyramid.  
• The slides on North and South Tripyramid should be navigated with care only in dry conditions.
• Cumulative elevation makes for near continuous climbing

Logistical Difficulty: Easy

• Livermore Trailhead provides a perfect spot for either a one-day trip or multi-day trip. Using a car as a midpoint allows hikers to carry less gear if they desire.
• No resupply options – pack what you need in your car.
• No permit required; however, parking must be paid for at Livermore Trailhead if you do not have a White Mountain National Forest parking permit ($5/day at the iron ranger).

Season: Summer, early fall

Elevation (average): ~2,500 feet
Total Elevation Gain: ~10,150 feet

Hiking the Waterville Valley Skyline Loop

The Waterville Valley Skyline Loop is not comprised of new trails; in fact many of them can be found in the Appalachian Mountain Club White Mountain Guide.  The Loop strings together trails from the AMC guide, Waterville Valley cross-country ski routes, and Tripoli Road.  The intention of the established loop is to bring hikers to the Waterville Valley area, a less popular area than Franconia Ridge or the Pemigewasset Wilderness. This area also doesn’t get as much attention from hikers as the Presidentials to the northeast.  While this is a quiet, desirable feature of these trails and mountains, the community is eager to share it with others.

I have hiked the Skyline Loop in a variety of ways. I did this intentionally so I could experience it from both the overnight hiker and day hiker perspective. This loop is traditionally hiked clockwise starting with Mt. Tecumseh. I never hike without checking the mountain weather forecast from a variety of sources, including the National Weather Service Recreational Report for higher summits. Since these peaks are in the 4,000-foot ballpark, this forecasting is reliable. That said, prepare for all weather conditions in the Whites regardless of season. My kit includes rain layers, warm layers, hat, and gloves … even in the summer. 

Overnight Trip on the Waterville Valley Skyline Loop

I gathered a few friends for a 20-mile backpacking trip of the west loop. The weather forecast was for the 60s during the day and high 40s at night.  We started at the Livermore Trailhead and headed to Mt. Tecumseh by taking the Pipeline Trail to the Waterville Valley Resort and the location of the Mt. Tecumseh Trailhead.  This mountain is frequently hiked.  The trailhead has received a lot of work over the years, which includes the installation of the longest set of stairs I have ever seen.  We summited, had a snack and headed down toward Tripoli Road.  We were banking on refilling our water at the brook near the Tecumseh Trailhead at Tripoli Road and were rewarded with a flowing stream, despite dry conditions.  We loaded up knowing water would be scarce until the Greeley Ponds area.

We headed east on Tripoli Road for just over a one-mile dirt road walk.  I was surprised to pass open campsites along the road on this busy Saturday in August.  These are first-come, first-serve spots that would make a great camping option for this area if you don’t want to deal with White Mountain National Forest Backcountry Camping Rules. If you plan on staying on Tripoli Road, make sure you check in with the caretaker and pay the fee. This area can be challenging to tent camp due to the terrain. Hammock campers will have an easier time setting up and following the strict rules. Other camping options include Osceola Vista Campground on Tripoli Road. This campground has a combination of reservable and first-come, first-serve sites. The same goes for Waterville Campground, a short drive from this area.

Our hike up Mt. Osceola was gradual and comfortable with an overnight pack. The open summit is 2.9 miles from the trailhead and easily one of the best vistas on this hike. We took some time for a snack before heading over to East Osceola.  You will descend the famous chimney between the peaks.  On this day, we chose the bypass because we had overnight packs.  We made short work of this section and summited East Osceola quickly.  This treed-in summit has a cairn to signify the top.

The descent down the Mt. Osceola trail to the Greeley Ponds Trail is steep and unrelenting for just over a mile—in some spots the grade is over 25%. The trail eases up substantially as you come into the Greeley Ponds Scenic Area.  We hooked a right onto the Greeley Ponds Trail looking for flowing water. We passed by the Greeley Ponds, considering filtering from here but decided to take our chances on hitting flowing water at Mad River. We were thrilled to see the water was flowing nicely a few tenths of a mile south of Lower Greeley Pond. We stocked up for the night and set to work locating our camping location for the night.  We set up off the Greeley Ponds Trail, in keeping with backcountry camping principles, a few miles from the Livermore Trailhead, making for an easy walk out in the morning and a total of 20 miles for the west side of the Skyline Loop.

Tripyramids

There is such versatility with this loop. Livermore Trailhead makes a perfect spot for resupply if you plan on doing this in two-plus days. You can also hike part of the loop from this lot. The Tripyramids are a staple for any Northeast hiker checking off their 48 4,000-footers. The Skyline Loop recommends use of the Scaur Trail, giving hikers a gentle ascent to access North Tripyramid.  If you are feeling adventurous, take the detour and do the North Slide.  Be prepared for hand-over-hand climbing and tricky rock wall navigation.  You will be rewarding with breathtaking views and a badge of honor.  DO NOT attempt North Slide if it’s raining or the slabs have a chance of being wet.  Also, do not go down North Slide.  To follow the loop on the map, go up Scaur Ridge Trail to North Tripyramid, travel across the relatively tame and treed ridge walk and down the South Slide.  South Slide has a fair amount of scree, but it is manageable and short.

Kettle’s Path, Irene’s Path, Old Skidder Trail and Snows Mountain

I had not seen this section of the trail before preparing to write this article, and I will certainly go back. I parked at Livermore Trailhead on a beautiful Saturday, and I was surprised to not be sharing these sections of trail with another soul. I took all side trail options, which gave me a breathtaking view of Waterville Valley from the Scaur. I also visited the Flume Spur off the intersection of Irene’s Path and Old Skidder Trail. The water must rage here in spring and the rock chimney is worth checking out. Old Skidder Trail is not used much, so just a faint footpath remains. This entire area is connected by a system of “roads.” Essentially these are carriage roads used for mountain biking and cross-country skiing.  After exploring these sections, I filtered water from Slide Brook and took the carriage road over to get on the Snows Mountain Trail, then hiked toward Snows Mountain clockwise. My ascent was nearly 1,000 feet, and the summit has an overgrown outlook, but if you continue clockwise on your descent, you will come to a second outlook over Waterville Valley.  Heading down this way was much tamer.

How to get to the Waterville Valley Skyline Loop

Nearest Town: Waterville Valley

Located off Tripoli Road, Livermore Trailhead is prime for accessing this area.  Waterville Valley is a quaint town, with coffee shops and a country club.  The mountains and skiing are a major draw in this area.  Note: Tripoli Road is closed in the winter, so Livermore Trailhead may be accessed through the village of Waterville Valley.

When to Hike the Waterville Valley Skyline Loop

Fair weather hikers will want to stick to the warmer months of late May through early October.  Year-round hikers, with proper gear, including snowshoes and microspikes, will be able to enjoy some of these trails.  Enjoyment in the winter is limited by your interest in properly breaking trail in snowshoes, and experience is necessary. Please do not walk down the middle of the groomed cross-country trails in the winter!  

In clear weather, hikers will be rewarded with amazing views of the Whites.  As always, check the weather forecast (see below) and turn around if conditions deteriorate beyond your ability to stay safe. 

Waterville Valley Skyline Loop Terrain 

The bulk of this loop is classic White Mountain National Forest terrain.  Rocks, roots, and slabs dot most of the trails. The cross-country trails are a nice break on the legs. I always say the Whites are not for the faint of heart, so be prepared to work for all of your elevation gain, especially with a heavy pack.

Logistics: Permits, Camping, Water and Gear

Permits:  The Waterville Valley Skyline Loop is located in the White Mountain National Forest.  A permit for parking can be obtained ahead of time.  Otherwise, pay the $5 at the Livermore Trailhead parking lot.  The same goes for other lots located on this loop and managed by the WMNF.

Camping: While camping is permitted, you must follow White Mountain National Forest Backcountry Camping Rules. The terrain here is brutal for tent camping. Rocks and roots making finding a flat spot nearly impossible. Experienced backpackers may find a place to camp around 2,500 feet in some places.  Hammock campers will do best on this loop.  Established camping areas in close proximity include:

Tripoli Road Camping Area. Fee required and may be sold out early in the day in the summer.

Osceola Vista Campground

Waterville Campground

Water: Water is plentiful despite the moderate drought in this area in 2022.  While it looks clean and is flowing, filter or treat it! I carried 1.5 liters most of the time, filling up with extra at Mad River for the overnight.  You will not find water up high (over 2,000 feet in most places), so grab water when you can. 

Special Gear: 

• Poles are invaluable in this terrain
• Paper map and Gaia GPS with downloaded maps.
• Ten Essentials for Hiking

Know Before You Go

Waterville Valley Recreation Department did a great job stringing together existing trails to create an adventure for day hikers and backpackers alike. I was impressed with how quiet the eastern side of the trail was (with the exception of the Tripyramids). I love the versatility of the trail system in that it provides day and overnight options if you plan well.  

Resources

Waterville Valley Skyline Loop: Information and map 

White Mountain National Forest Camping 

National Weather Service Recreational Report: For the White Mountains

Hiker friendly campgrounds:

Osceola Vista Campground 

Waterville Campground

Tripoli Road Camping Area

Appalachian Mountain Club White Mountain Guide and maps

Gaia GPS

The post Waterville Valley Skyline Loop appeared first on Backpacking Routes.

Region: New England (White Mountain National Forest, New Hampshire)
Distance: 23 Miles, 2 days

Physical Difficulty: (Moderate)

• ~3,800 feet elevation gain 
• Unmarked herd path to summit of Owl’s Head
• Up to 15 stream and river crossings 

Logistical Difficulty: (Moderate) 

• No cell phone service
• Plentiful water sources (filtering recommended)
• Only one designated tent site (fee Memorial Day to Columbus/Indigenous Peoples’ Day)
• Fee to park at trailhead

Season: Fall, Summer
Elevation (average): 2,000-3,000 feet
Total Elevation Gain: ~3,800 feet 

How to get to the Inner-Pemi Loop Trailhead

Nearest City: Lincoln, New Hampshire  (5 miles)

Parking is one of the benefits of the loop. The parking lot at Lincoln Woods Trailhead is five miles from Lincoln, directly off Interstate 93. There is a fee per night to park at the trailhead through a self-serve box at the trailhead. Although the parking lot is large, it can fill up quickly on weekends during peak season. There are bathroom facilities and the Lincoln Woods Visitor Center at the trailhead where you can buy last-minute supplies.

If you fly into Manchester or Boston, there are shuttle services offered through Concord Coach Lines to Lincoln.

Ali’s Rides (603) 348-3914 and Priority Transportation (603) 631-6242 are particularly reliable.

Hiking the Inner-Pemi Loop 

This loop is one of my favorite hikes in the White Mountains. I like it so much I did the loop two times in one summer and both times it was the perfect length and difficulty. The Inner-Pemi Loop has up to 15 water crossings and should not be attempted in high-water years or in late spring when snowmelt could make for treacherous conditions. The majority of this hike is located within the Pemigewasset Wilderness and additional regulations should be followed for camping in a wilderness location. There is a caretaker fee to camp at Thirteen Falls Tentsite during peak season (Memorial Day to Columbus/Indigenous Peoples’ Day) and camping is first come, first serve for parties under six people. Additional information can be found here.

The Inner-Pemi Loop starts and finishes on a heavily trafficked trail known as the Lincoln Woods Trail outside Lincoln, on the Kancamagus Highway. The majority of this loop is located on old railroad beds from the logging operations that took place in the Pemigewasset Wilderness in the 19th and early 20th centuries. The trails pass by the sites of five old logging camps and artifacts from the old logging operations can also be found along the trail. Please do not remove any artifacts from the sites. 

The first 3 miles of trail are heavily trafficked, wide, and flat. Upon crossing the second bridge, the trails are still easy to follow, but less maintained. Don’t be surprised if the trails are muddy and wet, even during fall. Shortly after the second bridge crossing bear left onto the Franconia Brook Trail, and about 1.7 miles later take another left onto the Lincoln Brook Trail. This is where the water crossings begin. There will be several crossings that will require either rock hopping, getting your feet wet, or both. 

As you near the herd path to Owl’s Head, the trail will be unavoidably wet. Prior to the herd path, there is one flat spot where people set up camp. There are also several spots near the trail at the junction with the Owl’s Head herd path where people camp. Make sure to follow wilderness camping regulations if you choose to camp along this stretch of trail.

The junction where the Owl’s Head herd path starts is marked by two cairns, one on the left and one on the right side of the trail. Owl’s Head, once a seldom-visited mountain, has become just as popular as many of the other peaks on the New Hampshire 4,000-footer list. Although the trail is unmaintained and considered a path, it is pretty easy to follow. The trail leads through the woods and then pops out onto a slide, which is where the majority of the elevation gain (1,450 feet in one mile) is achieved. After re-entering the trees, the trail continues at a steep pitch and using tree branches to pull yourself up is required in some spots. Eventually the trail levels out at the top of the ridge that leads to the summit of Owl’s Head. Bear left and follow the path for an additional quarter mile along the ridge, climbing over and going around several blowdowns, until you reach a small cairn marking the wooded summit. Although the summit is wooded, there are a few spots along the herd path where you can see up toward Franconia Ridge. 

Upon completing the climb to and from Owl’s Head, the remainder of this loop is less traveled and less maintained. Passing the cairns marking the herd path, you will begin the 3.5-mile trek deep into the Pemigewasset Wilderness. The trail becomes muddy with some mild climbs as you pass along the side of Owl’s Head and the banks of Lincoln Brook. There are a few spots where views of the Franconia Ridge can be seen through the trees. 

Eventually the trail descends toward Thirteen Falls Tentsite. There is a stream crossing as you reach the final stretch of the Lincoln Brook Trail that requires getting your feet wet as you cross Franconia Brook and rejoin the Franconia Brook Trail. Be aware that this crossing may be impassable during high water. Upon crossing Franconia Brook, bear left toward Thirteen Falls Tentsite. Bearing right, there are several beautiful waterfalls along the first stretch of the Franconia Brook Trail, heading back toward the Lincoln Woods Trail. The trail continues a gradual descent and eventually levels out, following old railroad beds where the railroad ties are still visible at times. The final section of the Franconia Brook Trail, prior to the junction with the Lincoln Brook Trail, flanks wetland that may spill over into the trail, making keeping your feet dry impossible. Once past this wetland the trail continues on a straight and level path until it meets back up with the Lincoln Woods Trail and thus the loop is complete.   

When to Hike the Inner-Pemi Loop

The Inner-Pemi Loop is best hiked after Memorial Day weekend through early-to-mid October. The best time is August to September to avoid the buggy season while still having longer days and warmer nights. I wouldn’t recommend hiking this loop in winter unless you are prepared with winter gear and prepared to break trail for several miles. Additionally, hiking this loop in early spring would mean contending with rotting monorails and higher water, along with damage to the trails by having to navigate around seasonal wet stretches and mud. 

Inner-Pemi Loop Terrain 

The majority of this loop is within a wilderness boundary and is heavily forested. There are several areas where the trails are muddy due to beaver dams or simply because of the overabundance of water in and around the trail corridor. The herd path to the summit of Owl’s Head is an unmaintained trail and has no trail markers. There is a section of this path on a slide, meaning that the trail is covered in scree and loose rock and is at a pitch that may require scrambling rather than hiking. The majority of this loop has minimal changes in elevation, with the majority concentrated in a few steep climbs. There are at least 15 water crossings ranging in difficulty from minimal (rock hoppable) to requiring fording (knee-high water on a 5’5” hiker). 

Logistics: Camping, Permits, Land Management

Camping and Permits: Camping at Thirteen Falls Tentsite requires a caretaker fee from Memorial Day to Columbus/Indigenous Peoples’ Day weekend. There are plenty of spots along the loop for stealth camping as long as you follow regulations for camping in a wilderness corridor. Camping at Thirteen Falls is on a first come, first serve basis for parties under six. 

Land Management: Almost the entirety of this loop is situated in a wilderness boundary and wilderness camping rules apply. 

Water: Water is plentiful along the entirety of the loop, but it should be filtered.  

Know Before You Go

This is a loop that shouldn’t be attempted by hikers who are not experienced in navigating in wilderness boundaries where there are fewer trail markers and the trails are less groomed. The herd path leading to the summit of Owl’s Head shouldn’t be attempted by those who are not able to navigate on unmarked herd paths. Additionally, this trail may be more difficult to navigate in wetter conditions, and the river crossings may be difficult during high water. 

Resources

White Mountain Guidebook & Maps
Wilderness Regulations 
4,000-Footers List
Mountain Forecast
Hike Safe Card 
New England Trail Conditions

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The Cohos Trail is a 170 mile point-to-point trail from the United States/Canadian border in New Hampshire south to Crawford Notch. Along the trail, hikers will find maintained shelters, White Mountain National Forest tent sites, and hiker-friendly campgrounds. It is routinely hiked SOBO or NOBO in 10-16 days. 

Region: New England (New Hampshire)
Distance: 170 miles (10-16 days)

Physical Difficulty: Difficult

• Weather changes in the White Mountains must be monitored
• Rocky climbs in the southern third of the trail
• Cumulative elevation makes for near-continuous climbing and descending

Logistical Difficulty: Difficult

• Northern and southern termini are separated by a 2.5-hour car ride; shuttles are often utilized for a car drop
• Minimal resupply options. Mail or in-person drop-offs should be utilized to minimize pack weight
• No permit required; parking must be paid for if leaving a vehicle at the Davis Path Trailhead (southern terminus in Crawford Notch)

Season: Summer, Fall
Elevation (average): ~2,300 feet
Total Elevation Gain: ~33,000 feet

Hiking the Cohos Trail

The Cohos Trail was first envisioned in 1978 by founder Kim Robert Nilsen. The trail network was eventually realized with the help of private, state, and federal landowners and the hard work of countless volunteers.  Its intention was to give access to the far northern reaches of New Hampshire.  This trail has been a bucket list item of mine for some time, having been an avid White Mountains hiker for years.

I started my hike the second week of August with the intention of avoiding the worst of the bugs and the heat.  I successfully dodged the insects, but the heat became another story as a heat wave built during my hike. Given the ever-changing weather of the north, I packed for a variety of conditions.  I started my hike at the northern terminus, reveling in the sight of the international border markings along the trail as I looped the Fourth Connecticut Lake, the official start miles of the Cohos Trail.

As I worked my way south, I was pleasantly surprised to find yellow markers and signs lining much of the trail and intersections.  The Cohos Trail Association works each year to make navigation a bit easier.  I did refer to my SOBO Databook, the paper map and my Avenza app frequently throughout the trip as the trail shares terrain with snowmobile passages, ATV trails, local trails, and eventually White Mountain National Forest trails.

I spent 8 days reveling in the beauty of this trail, hiking into the White Mountain National Forest on day 7. At this point, I was paying close attention to the higher summit forecast as I would be hiking the southern, exposed flank of the Presidential Range in the days to come. The remnants of a tropical storm affected my decision to get off trail and come back in drier and safer conditions. The weather in the WMNF is volatile year round and hikers should be prepared and respect the forecast.

Nonetheless, this trail delivered in its remote nature, friendly town environment (the locals love hikers) and varied terrain. I will hike this trail again, most likely by section to see what I missed along the way. This trail requires hikers to be fit and comfortable carrying additional gear. This is not safe for “light and fast” under most conditions. Some nights on trail, I was sleeping under only the mesh portion of my tent, while other nights required the rain fly, long underwear, and my quilt. This is part of what makes this trail such an adventure.

How to Get to the Cohos Trail

Nearest City: Pittsburg at the northern terminus and Bartlett at the southern terminus

Northern Terminus: US Port of Entry/Fourth Connecticut Lake Trail

Southern Terminus: Davis Path Trailhead

Hikers who prefer to hike from the northern terminus at the US/Canadian border usually leave a car at the Davis Path Trailhead in Bartlett, then shuttle to the start. That way you have a car waiting at the end.  This was my choice, so I paid a shuttle driver to take me from Bartlett to Pittsburg and drop me at the border patrol station. The Cohos Trail starts behind the station. I hired Maura from Maura at Your Service.  Shuttles are pricey (around $220.00) as the ride is approximately 2 1/2 hours from terminus to terminus. That said, I didn’t have to bother a friend or family member to deal with the car drop situation. 

Hikers wishing to start at the southern terminus and end at the border may leave cars at the border patrol station with permission and a note on the dash.  Be prepared for no cell service at both termini.  I recommend having your plans for a ride or shuttle well established before you start.

When to Hike the Cohos Trail

The best time to hike this trail is after black fly season. This tiny insect can ruin a hike in June and early July. Hike this trail in July and August if you only have warm weather backpacking gear. Hike it in September if you want to see the beginnings of an amazing foliage season in the far north.  This trail can be hiked later in the season, however winter gear (warmer sleep system, microspikes, winter clothing) should be carried. The average temperature in Pittsburg in October at low elevation is 53 degrees.  

Cohos Trail Terrain 

The Cohos Trail is a mix of snowmobile trails (essentially wide grassy ways, some have been trimmed by caretakers), dirt trails shared with ATVs, jeep roads, forested single track, and rocky mountain trails. There really is a little something for everyone out here. The northern 100 miles have the easiest terrain (but still lots of ups and downs) while you will start experiencing more rocks and roots once you pass into the Nash Stream Forest and White Mountain National Forest. The highest point on the trail is Mt. Eisenhower (accessed by a .1 mile spur trail) and you will be in the true alpine zone here. There is a “high peaks” option for the Cohos, taking you along the Southern Presidential Range to Mt. Washington. Here you will experience breathtaking views of the Whites, but be prepared for being exposed to the elements all day.

Cohos Trail Resupply Strategy 

Most hikers choose to send themselves at least one resupply box during this hike. The private campgrounds, Percy Lodge, and Stark Village Inn will accept resupply boxes as long as you contact them first, as does the Jefferson post office.  There is only one “on trail” resupply option in the first 100 miles at Young’s General Store in Pittsburg.  After that, it’s a long push to the Old Corner Store in Jefferson  and the Bretton Woods Market & Deli where you can resupply.  A hitch is hard to grab in the northern part of the state simply due to lack of traffic. Hitches to Colebrook are possible if you are patient.  Here you will find a grocery store and restaurants.  Expect to lose a half day on this option.

I started my hike with a five-day food carry. You can do a full resupply at Young’s, plus grab fresh fruit or a sub. I collected my resupply at the Percy Lodge and Campground in Stark, about 1.2 miles off trail. I had a room booked here and had mailed the owner, Kathleen, my box the week before.  She was starting a hiker box too!  Once you are done with the Kilkenny Ridge, you could completely resupply in Jefferson and Bretton Woods if you aren’t picky.

Logistics: Permits, Camping, Water, and Gear

Permits:  The Cohos Trail is located on private, state, and federal forest land.  Permits are not required, however there are certain camping rules that MUST be adhered to in order to keep this trail accessible to the public.

Camping: This trail is on WMNF federal land from the southern terminus through the Kilkenny Ridge (South Pond in Stark).  You may use dispersed campsites on this section.  Visit the PDF on Backcountry Camping Rules for full details on finding your own non-established campsite.  The only exception in this area is the Pondicherry Wildlife Refuge in Jefferson.

North of South Pond in Stark, you must camp in designated areas only.  This includes the Cohos Trail Association Shelters, established campgrounds, and tent sites.  A complete list can be found on the Cohos Trail Association Places to Stay Along the Trail page.

I utilized a combination of shelters and campgrounds for my hike.  I stayed at Deer Mountain Campground, Lake Francis Campground, Rudy’s Campground, Panorama Shelter, Old Hermit Shelter, Percy Lodge, Unknown Pond tent site, and Israel River Campground.  I have also stayed south of Mt. Martha by following the backcountry campsite rules. Most campgrounds have quarter showers and laundry. The tent site and shelters I stayed at all had well-maintained privies. 

Water: Water can be found by using the Cohos Trail map.  I found many of the water sources on the map were in fact running (albeit slowly) despite the drought being experienced in this area.  My longest water carries (3Ls) were up to Panorama Shelter and from Unknown Pond tent site to Jefferson Village.  The Kilkenny Ridge and Davis Path are notoriously dry so do not fail to fill up at Unknown Pond or Dry River.  The SOBO and NOBO databooks, available as a PDF that I uploaded to my phone, were invaluable for knowing where my next reliable water source was located. I filtered water for my entire trip. 

Know Before You Go

 The Cohos Trail is a phenomenal adventure for those seeking to step away from the crowds.  It is not unusual to be alone for days at a time. I spent one of 8 days with two other SOBO hikers.  I did start to see day hikers as I came into Jefferson, but the region north of here is largely unexplored by backpackers and day hikers alike.  Navigation is getting better, but I found the Avenza app and maps an invaluable tool many times at intersections.  Ultimately, this trail is worth the logistical planning if you are seeking solitude.

Cohos Trail Resources

Cohos Trail Association – Visit their Facebook page for the most up-to-date information

White Mountain National Forest Camping 

Hiker-friendly campgrounds:

Percy Lodge and Campground

Rudy’s Campground (hiker camp area and amazing sunsets)

Lake Francis Campground

Israel River Campground

Shuttle Service: Maura at Your Service

Avenza App – Cohos Trail map is available for use offline

Heather is a lifelong outdoors woman, exploring trails as a child and young adult on horseback.  She transitioned to hiking, backpacking, and ultra running in the last 8 years and is eager to continue exploring.  Her “playground” is the White Mountains of New Hampshire and trails throughout New England.  When not exploring, she enjoys photography, writing, and spending time with her people and animals. Follow her on Instagram.

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Region: New England (Southwestern New Hampshire)
Distance: 21.5 miles, (2 days)

Physical Difficulty: Moderate 

• Moderate elevation gain
• Majority of the trail is in the woods with only one short road walk
• Ascend 10 named peaks

Logistical Difficulty: Easy 

• Parking at either terminus does not require permits or fees; however, there is a $4 fee required for accessing Miller State Park on the trail. 
• Navigation is generally easy (yellow triangles mark the trail)
• Camping is only permitted in one spot, you need to reserve shelter space ahead of time

Season: Spring, Summer, Fall 
Elevation (Average): ~2,000 feet 
Total Elevation Gain: ~4,800 feet

How to Get to the Wapack Trail

• The northern terminus is in Greenfield, New Hampshire, on Mountain Road.
• The southern terminus is in Ashburnham, Massachusetts, on Route 119 in the Mount Watatic Reservation.
• Directions to road crossings along the trail can be found here. 

The termini for both ends of the Wapack Trail are at the base of mountains, and finding a ride to and from the trailheads may be difficult unless you set it up ahead of time. I attempted to arrange a ride back to my car from the southern terminus using Uber, but wasn’t able to set up a ride ahead of time, and wasn’t willing to chance not getting a ride via Uber after finishing the trail, so I just had my husband pick me up. If you wanted to eliminate the need for a ride, doing the trail as a yo-yo and doing two overnights on the trail may be a good idea. 

If you are flying into either of the two nearest cities, (Manchester, New Hampshire, or Concord, New Hampshire) it is recommended that you get in touch with one of the shuttle service companies that can be found here. Thomas Transportation in particular offers shuttles from Manchester-Boston Regional Airport to the counties that both of the termini are found in. Logistically, if you are doing a car spot, getting back to your car after completing this hike is probably the most difficult part of the whole trip. 

Hiking the Wapack Trail

I set out from the northern terminus, following the main trail, called the Wapack Trail. The trail sweeps through the forest at mild to moderate grades, crests the summit and then dips back into the woods, headed toward Pack Monadnock Mountain. Make sure you pay the day-hiker fee for entering the park. 

The first 10 miles of trail take you up and down 5 named peaks, and after making the ascent of Temple Mountain you begin a long ridgewalk riding up and down several unnamed peaks in the Cabot Memorial Forest. This stretch of trail had no water sources, which was something I wasn’t expecting during springtime. I highly recommend cameling up on water at the only water source I found on trail, at the very beginning on North Pack Monadnock. 

One of the things I liked most about this trail is that you aren’t doing long road walks. After summiting Burton Peak, you descend onto Temple Road, where you do a 0.4 mile road walk, re-enter the forest, and hit your first water source heading southbound. There is an abundance of water on the remainder of the trail heading south. 

The next 3.5 miles of trail fly by as the elevation gain and loss is minimal until you hit the first of 6 named peaks, the final one being Mount Watatic at the southern terminus. You will walk through an active logging operation, where blazing is sparse. The trail re-routes around Windblown XC Ski Area, and I found myself doing an unintentional loop and added 1.2 additional miles to my hike, backtracking to the junction where the re-route branches off the Wapack Trail away from the ski area. 

The ascent of the first peak following this flat stretch of trail, Barrett Mountain, is steep but once you reach the top there are sites for camping (if you register ahead of time). After passing the campsites, the trail climbs over several named and unnamed peaks. This stretch of trail offers more in the way of views as you break treeline several times before re-entering the forest, only to break treeline again. 

Finally, after completing the last in a series of ascents and descents, you enter Binney Pond Natural Area and remain low in the Binney Hill Preserve before making the final ascent of Mount Watatic. I chose to skip this final ascent and instead took the State Line Trail (part of the Midstate Trail) to the southern terminus. This short stretch of trail was worth it because I was able to see the state line markers placed along this stretch of trail marking the New Hampshire/Massachusetts border. The State Line Trail meets back up with the Wapack for the final stretch to the parking lot at the southern terminus.     

When to Hike the Wapack Trail

The beauty of the Wapack Trail is that it can be hiked during summer, spring, and fall. Snow melts faster in southern New Hampshire, which is why I recommend hiking this trail in spring, while waiting for the trails in the White Mountains to be snow free. I chose to hike this trail in mid-May. Checking to make sure the trail is free of or almost free of snow before heading out is recommended. Making sure to camel up if you’re hiking the trail southbound; before the summit of North Pack Monadnock is highly recommended, regardless of what season you hike the trail. 

Wapack Trail Terrain 

The majority of this trail runs along the ridge of mountains in southern New Hampshire. There is only one small road walk, and one section that has been re-routed due to logging operations; however, the nice thing about this trail is that it is mainly in the woods. Another bonus of this trail is that it doesn’t have any significantly steep climbs.

  Wapack Trail Logistics: Camping, Water, Land Use

Camping and Permits: Because the Wapack Trail is primarily day-use only, there is only one spot where camping is allowed. I recommend checking out the Windblown Camping page found here for more information on how to sign up to stay in the shelter. There is a $4 day-use fee that you need to pay (there’s a fee box on the side of the trail where it passes the trailhead for Miller State Park) for using the trails in Miller State Park, as well.  

Type of Land: This trail follows the Wapack Range and crosses various types of land from private to state forests. Because the trail is primarily day use only, be sure to only camp in designated sites and be respectful of the private landowners where this trail runs near private residences and follow Leave No Trace principles.  

Water: Water is sparse for the first 10 miles of trail going southbound. The southern 10 miles have an abundance of water, but all of it should be filtered. 

Know Before You Go

I highly recommend purchasing the Wapack Trail map. This map has a mini trail guide included and trail mileage as well. I found this trail to be easy to navigate and is well-marked with the exception of the section skirting the cross-country ski operation.

Additional Resources

New Hampshire State Parks

Camping Resources

New England Trail Conditions

Mountain Forecast

The post The Wapack Trail appeared first on Backpacking Routes.

Region: New England (White Mountain National Forest, New Hampshire)
Distance: 23 Miles (2 days)

Physical Difficulty: Moderate 

• Roughly 5,400 feet of elevation gain 
• Water sources sporadic
• Navigation difficult along the Dry River Trail

Logistical Difficulty: Moderate 

• Sparse water sources along Davis Path
• Loop hike so only one car needed (there is a 3-mile road walk)
• No permits required

Season: Fall/Summer/Late Spring

Elevation (average): ~ 2,000 – 3,000 feet 
Total Elevation Gain:~5,400 feet

Hiking the Isolation Loop 

I hiked this loop counterclockwise. I started my hike at the Davis Path trailhead, which happens to be the start/end of the Cohos Trail. The Davis Path is one of the oldest and longest routes to the summit of Mount Washington. What it lacks in sweeping views it makes up for in its historical significance. The majority of this hike lies within a wilderness boundary. Be sure to follow not only LNT principles, but regulations governing camping in a wilderness area. It should be noted that there are very sparse water sources along the Davis Path. It would behoove the hiker to camel up at the very first water source, the Saco River, and keep in mind that there will be little-to-no water along the entirety of the Davis Path unless hiked during a wetter year. 

This trail begins south of Crawford Notch and ascends the first of four mountains at a consistent, classic New England grade. After three miles of climbing, the first spur path to the summit of Mount Crawford appears on the left. It’s worth taking this spur path because you will be awarded in some fantastic views of the Presidential Range-Dry River Wilderness as well as the mountains you will be climbing along the Davis Path. Past the spur to Mount Crawford, the trail follows along the edge of Mount Resolution before making a short, steep climb to Stairs Mountain. Another spur path leads to a rocky outcropping where more views to the south toward Mount Resolution can be seen. There are some small spots where tenting is permitted as well on the spur path to Stairs Mountain.   

After making the short, steep climb to the height of land before the spur to the summit of Stairs Mountain, the trail continues along the wooded ridge heading toward, but not over, Mount Davis. Shortly after passing the spur for Mount Davis, the trail ascends the final few hundred feet to the spur path that leads to the summit of Mount Isolation. Isolation is one of New Hampshire’s 4,000-foot mountains frequented by those working on hiking all of the 48 4000-footers, and is worth the short climb to the summit for spectacular views of the Presidential Range from the heart of the Presidential Range-Dry River Wilderness. Past the spur for Isolation’s summit, locating a place to camp, if you choose to finish the first day off, will require either stealth camping, while following wilderness regulations, or setting up at one of the designated campsites set up by the Forest Service. These sites are not noted on maps because they are moved frequently to deter overuse.

Isolation Trail (West Branch) marks the beginning of the less-frequently used trails that you will venture down on this loop. Being located in a designated wilderness area means you will be contending with blowdowns and minimal trail maintenance. After making a steady descent you will reach one of the first of many water sources. The trail will continue to become more difficult to follow, at times, due to erosion that occurred during Tropical Storm Irene. At the intersection with Dry River Trail, you may opt to head north toward the Dry River Shelter #3; however, making this trip from the Davis Path trailhead would make for a long first day. The final stretch of trail, leading to the Dry River Campground and Dry River trailhead, follows the Dry River and has a few washed-out sections that occurred during rene. Following the trail is pretty straightforward despite the few washed-out sections and the closer you get to the trailhead, the more groomed the trail becomes. Finishing off this loop will require a three-mile road walk back to your car at the Davis Path trailhead unless you opted to do a car spot.  

How to get to the Isolation Loop Trailhead(s)

Closest City: Lincoln, New Hampshire  (39 miles)

The best way to approach the hike is to complete the loop counterclockwise. There are two termini and a three-mile road walk. Depending on which direction you hike this trail, and if you decide to do a car spot to avoid the road walk, you will be parking at one of two trailheads, Davis Path or Dry River. The beauty of this loop is regardless of where you choose to park/start your hike, you will be parking on the same main road, Route 302, and both trailheads are directly off of the road and well marked. 

If you’re flying into Manchester or Boston, there are shuttle services offered through Concord Coach Lines to Lincoln. The termini are located just south of the AMC Highland Center Lodge, which also offers shuttles to various termini and can pick you up from Lincoln if needed. Ali’s Rides (603) 348-3914 and Priority Transportation (603) 631-6242 were noted as reliable for rides.  

When to Hike the Isolation Loop

The Isolation loop would best be hiked after Memorial Day weekend through early to mid-October. The best time of year to hike this loop would be August through September, to avoid the buggy season while still having the flexibility afforded by longer days and warmer nights. I wouldn’t recommend hiking this loop in winter unless you are prepared with winter weather gear and prepared to break trail for several miles. Additionally, hiking this loop in early spring would mean contending with rotting monorails and higher water, along with imposing unnecessary damage to the trails by having to navigate around seasonal wet stretches and mud. 

Isolation Loop Terrain

The majority of this trail is within a wilderness boundary and is heavily forested. There are some stretches along the Dry River Trail that are eroded and other sections that can be muddier in wetter weather along both the Dry River Trail and Isolation Trail. This trail is also less marked due to its location within wilderness boundaries, meaning that there are fewer blazes marking the trail and blowdowns follow the “over/under” rule: if you can walk under it or over it, it will probably be there for a while.  

Logistics: Camping, Water, Permits

Camping and Permits: No permits are required to camp or park at the trailheads. Camping at any of the shelters along the trail is on a first come, first serve basis. 

Land Designations: Almost the entirety of this loop is in a wilderness corridor and wilderness camping rules apply. 

Water: Water is plentiful with the exception of the stretch of trail running along the Davis Path from the Saco River to the Isolation Trail. This stretch of trail, from Davis Path to Isolation Trail, had very minimal, if any water sources. It is highly recommended that you camel up at the Saco River. All water should be filtered. 

Know Before You Go

In designated Wilderness areas there is often less trail maintenance and fewer trail markers. For this reason, hikers inexperienced in hiking in such areas should use caution and have an overabundance of navigation tools.

Additionally, this trail may be more difficult to navigate in wetter conditions, especially the Isolation Trail, as there are several sections where the trail abuts a branch of the Dry River. 

Isolation Loop Resources

White Mountain Guidebook and Maps
Wilderness Regulations 
4000-Footers List
Mountain Forecast
Hike Safe Card 
New England Trail Conditions

The post Isolation Loop Trail appeared first on Backpacking Routes.

Region: New England (Connecticut State Forests)
Length: ~32 miles (2-4 days)

Want this map for offline use? Get a discount on Gaia Premium here.

Physical Difficulty: Easy

Logistical Difficulty: Easy

• Permits required for overnight camping; no dispersed camping allowed.
• Point-to-point hike. Use a two-car shuttle, or leave a car at one trailhead and Uber to the other.
• Well-marked, easy-to-follow route.
• Plentiful water.

Season: Year-round

Elevation (Average): 800 feet
Total Elevation Gain: 4,000 feet

Hiking the Natchaug / Nipmuck Trails

You won’t find soaring vistas or epic climbs on the Natchaug and Nipmuck Trails.

What you will find are dazzling thickets of flowering mountain laurel in the spring, trees ablaze with color in the fall, and remnants of farms long ago abandoned to the hardscrabble New England soil.

My favorite trail in Connecticut’s 850-mile blue-blazed trail system is the Natchaug Trail in eastern Connecticut that traverses an area called the Last Green Valley, a National Heritage Corridor. Hooking up with the Nipmuck Trail creates a two- to four-day hike for all levels of backpackers.

I recommend starting at the southern terminus at James L. Goodwin State Forest, leaving what I consider to be the best sections for last.

From the Goodwin parking lot the trail quickly meets Pine Acres Pond—a popular bird-watching spot—and briefly follows the shoreline before connecting with the Airline State Park Trail, an old railroad bed now used for hiking and biking. Signs along the trail describe the trees bordering the trail.

The trail diverges from the Airline and weaves through woods filled with stone walls and an occasional old cellar hole. You’ll soon pass nearly 100 acres that was heavily logged after trees were devastated by gypsy moths in the late 2010s.

The trail continues past Black Spruce Pond, another bird-watching area.

After passing from Goodwin into Natchaug State Forest you’ll soon climb Orchard Hill, at 675 feet the second-highest hill on the trail. There’s an overlook with a bench and a modest view.

The hike through Natchaug really gives a feel for life when farms dominated these woods, including an old mill site along a brook.

Before reaching the first overnight camping spot you’ll pass through Nathaniel Lyon Memorial State Park, birthplace of Nathaniel Lyon, the first Union general killed in the Civil War. The chimney from the house still stands.

A few hundred feet past the chimney is the General Lyon Shelter, with water available from a small stream just before the shelter.

Day two takes you through more hardwood forests laced with stone walls and cellar holes, with a brief walk along the Still River. Cross the river on a bridge on Pilfershire Road, then bear left onto General Lyon Road. (Lyon’s grave is in a cemetery across the road. And if you’ve binge-snacked through your sweet treats or want a cold drink that isn’t water, the Corner Market—the only store near the trail—is about a quarter mile to the right on Lyon Road / Route 189.)

The trail (bearing left) follows General Lyon Road / Route 189 for about half a mile before re-entering the woods. From there the trail meanders easily through the woods before crossing Route 44 and descending to Bigelow Brook. You’ll cross a short section of the The Hole in the Wall Gang Camp, a summer retreat for seriously ill children that was founded by the late Paul Newman.

The trail continues along Bigelow Brook, where a bench next to the brook provides a quiet place to relax and enjoy the burbling water. It’s an easy place to sit and lose track of time.

The Natchaug Trail ends several miles later at its junction with the Nipmuck Trail. An approved tentsite is about three-quarters of a mile south on the Nipmuck Trail, and is a good place to stop if you’re making this a three-day hike. The water supply is a stream about 100 feet before the tentsite.

If you’re making this a two-day hike, continue north on the Nipmuck Trail.

The two trails in this area coincide with sections of the Old Connecticut Path, first used by Native Americans and then settlers traveling from Boston to Hartford in one of the first major inland migrations by Europeans.

If you stopped for the night at the tentsite, backtrack to the Nipmuck / Natchaug Trails junction. Heading north, the Nipmuck Trail soon enters Yale-Myers Forest, 7,840 acres managed by the Yale School of Forestry and Environmental Studies. Near the northern end of the forest is an area called Tree Heaven, with benches for classroom work and tree lots marked for management and ecological studies.

The trail also passes Walker Mountain, about a quarter mile west on a marked side trail. The barely noticeable summit is 1,087 high feet—the highest peak along the trails—with limited views and remnants of an old fire tower.

After descending the ridge that the trail follows through the northernmost section of Yale-Myers Forest you’ll cross Route 171 into Nipmuck State Forest. Breakneck Pond and the northern campsites are a few miles farther north.

If you’re heading to your car on day three, take the white-blazed Connector Road from the southern end of the pond to the hiker parking lot on Bigelow Pond. If you’re staying the night for a four-day hike, the Connector Road passes the Breakneck South Shelter while the Nipmuck Trail continues north to the Breakneck East Shelter. The South Shelter is tucked away from the trail, while the East Shelter is right on the trail, but has a great view of the pond. The tentsite is on the Breakneck View Trail on the western shore of the pond. View the trails map here.

How to Get to the Natchaug / Nipmuck Trails

Closest Cities: Hartford, Connecticut; Worcester, Massachusetts; Providence, Rhode Island.

All three have small regional airports: Bradley International Airport, Windsor Locks, Connecticut; T.F. Green Airport, Warwick, Rhode Island; Worcester Regional Airport, Worcester. No public transportation to any of the trailheads.

Driving There: The trail starts just off Route 6 in the south and Route 171 in the north, crosses state Routes 44 and 189, and smaller roads. Dirt pull-offs at trail road crossings.

Where to Park

Southern Terminus: James L. Goodwin State Forest on Route 6 in Hampton, Connecticut. Large parking area. Let the people in the visitors center know that you’re parking overnight for a multiday hike. The Natchaug Trail starts at the parking area.

Northern Terminus: Bigelow Hollow State Park on Route 171 in Union, Connecticut, just a few miles from Interstate 84. Entrance fee to the park for nonresidents, no fee for Connecticut residents. Leave a note on your dashboard that you’re hiking on a multiday trip. Trails lead from the large hiker parking lot at the northern end of Bigelow Pond to Breakneck Pond and the northern terminus of the Nipmuck Trail at the Massachusetts / Connecticut border. The trails around Breakneck Pond can be confusing so it’s a good idea to download a map.

When to Hike the Natchaug / Nipmuck Trails

Fall: Bright colors, cool temperatures, and mostly dry weather bring out the best on Connecticut’s hiking trails. This is a good time for a multiday hike on the Natchaug and Nipmuck Trails, especially midweek. Expect weekends to be busy. November and December are deer hunting season, which is allowed along the two trails.

Winter: Trail conditions can range from deep snow to frozen, open paths. After fall, this is my favorite trail time.

Spring: Wet, buggy, wide range of temperatures. The trails may be muddy, but there are no tough stream crossings.

Summer: Hot and humid, which wouldn’t be so bad if there were deep river pools to cool off in. There aren’t.

Two-Day NOBO Itinerary

Day One: Goodwin State Forest to General Lyon Shelter, ~7.5 miles.

Day Two: General Lyon Shelter to Bigelow Hollow State Park hiker parking lot, ~24 miles.

Three-Day NOBO Itinerary

Day One: Goodwin State Forest to General Lyon Shelter, ~7.5 miles.

Day Two: General Lyon Shelter to Nipmuck Trail tentsite, ~12 miles

Day Three: Nipmuck Trail tentsite to Bigelow Hollow State Park hiker parking lot, ~13 miles

Four-Day NOBO Itinerary

This adds a loop around Breakneck Pond and back to your car on the fourth day.

Day One: Goodwin State Forest to General Lyon shelter, ~7.5 miles.

Day Two: General Lyon Shelter to Nipmuck Trail tentsite, ~12 miles

Day Three: Nipmuck Trail tentsite to Bigelow Hollow State Park East Shelter, ~13 miles

Day Four: East Shelter to Massachusetts border on Nipmuck Trail, Breakneck Pond View Trail along the western shore of the pond, Connector Road to parking lot, ~5 miles.

Natchaug / Nipmuck Trails Terrain

The trails are mostly dirt-carpeted forest paths and old woods roads through undulating terrain. Boulders the size of small cars dot the landscape. You’ll cross several streams, some with bridges, but none with difficult water crossings.

Logistics: Permits, Camping, Water

Permits: The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection issues permits for the General Lyon Shelter on the Natchaug Trail in Natchaug State Forest, the South and East shelters and a primitive tentsite on Breakneck Pond in Nipmuck State Forest, and a primitive tentsite on the Nipmuck Trail three-quarters of a mile south of the junction of the Nipmuck / Natchaug Trails. Natchaug State Forest also has horse-packing sites. Fee for nonresidents to enter Bigelow Hollow State Park.

Camping: Overnight camping is allowed only at the three shelters and two campsites. Water and fire pits, no privies.

Water: Plentiful. The trail briefly follows streams and passes several ponds.

Know Before You Go

Weather: Typical New England fare. Cool and dry in the fall; cold, although snow is increasingly scarce, in the winter; wet and buggy in the spring; hot and humid in the summer.

Route Finding: The trail is easy to follow, with blue blazes marking the way. Volunteers maintain the trail, and section maintenance varies depending on the volunteers. The Connecticut Walk Book, available through the Connecticut Forest and Parks Association, is the definitive guide for the state’s blue-blazed trails.

Beware: Ticks are plentiful along the trail—Lyme disease was first identified in Connecticut—and permethrin-treated clothing and insect repellent are good protection. Poison ivy crowds the trail at some road crossings.

Animals: Bears, bobcats, moose and deer roam these forests. Protect your food from bears. Moose and bobcat sightings are rare. Deer are everywhere.

History: The Natchaug Trail passes through General Nathaniel Lyon Memorial Park (birthplace of the first Union general to be killed in the Civil War) in Eastford. Northern sections of the Natchaug and Nipmuck Trails briefly follow the Old Connecticut Path, first used by Native Americans and then traveled in the 1630s by European settlers from Boston who founded Hartford.

The Last Green Valley: 1,100 square miles covering 35 towns in south-central Massachusetts and northeastern Connecticut that are 77% forests and farms. Known as the last stretch of dark night sky in the coastal sprawl between Boston and Washington, D.C. But be aware that the trails are never far from the distant hum of cars and trucks, especially in the northern section near Interstate 84.

Cell Phones: Reception is good on the trails, but spotty in Bigelow Hollow State Park. The Bigelow hiker parking lot is a black hole for cell reception.

Natchaug / Nipmuck Trails Resources

Connecticut Forest and Parks Association

Connecticut Walk Book

Blue-blazed Hiking Trails Interactive Map

James L. Goodwin Conservation Center

Backpacking Shelters, Campsites, and Reservations

Weather

Nipmuck State Forest

Natchaug State Forest

James L. Goodwin State Forest

Yale-Myers Forest

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