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Best backpacking hikes in New Hampshire
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Best backpacking hikes in New Hampshire

Ready for some outdoor fun? These hikes offer everything you could want for an unforgettable adventure!

Here are some great hikes to explore in New Hampshire.

Most popular hikes

1

Medium

West Bond Summit via Lincoln Woods Trail

Grafton County, New Hampshire · star 4.4 (21) · 34.6 km · Est. 2 days

2

Difficult

Mount Isolation via Davis Path

Carroll County, New Hampshire · star 4.5 (13) · 22.0 km · Est. 2 days

3

Extra Difficult

Mount Madison Trail via Valley Way

Coos County, New Hampshire · star 4.6 (21) · 12.2 km · Est. 4 hrs 29 min

4

Difficult

Gorham to Pinkham Notch via Mount Surprise and Wildcat Mountain Trail

Coos County, New Hampshire · star 4.5 (31) · 27.5 km · Est. 2 days

5

Extra Difficult

Mount Quincy via Airline Trail and Short Line Trail

Coos County, New Hampshire · star 4.4 (17) · 12.9 km · Est. 4 hrs 54 min

6

Extra Difficult

Mount Madison via Valley Way

Coos County, New Hampshire · star 4.4 (26) · 14.7 km · Est. 5 hrs 30 min

7

Difficult

Eagle Crag to North Baldface to South Baldface Loop

Carroll County, New Hampshire · star 4.6 (28) · 16.3 km · Est. 5 hrs

8

Difficult

Mount Chocorua via Champney Brook Trail

Carroll County, New Hampshire · star 4.6 (15) · 11.2 km · Est. 3 hrs 21 min

9

Medium

Thoreau Falls Trail and Shoal Pond Trail Loop via Ethan Pond Trail

Carroll County, New Hampshire · star 4.2 (15) · 33.1 km · Est. 2 days

10

Difficult

Carter Dome - Mount Lethe Loop

Coos County, New Hampshire · star 4.7 (21) · 22.9 km · Est. 7 hrs 1 min

SHOW MORE HIKES

Reviews for backpacking hikes in New Hampshire

Nathan Perez avatar

West Bond Summit via Lincoln Woods Trail

AdventureRidgePerez · reviewed 9 months ago

star star star star star

Great weather for the hike today , the Bonds are a must do.

Wilburn Kertzmann avatar

Mount Isolation via Davis Path

PeakviewMountainlover31 · reviewed over 2 years ago

star star star star star

Fr. Patti Towne avatar

Mount Madison Trail via Valley Way

PathOutfitter46 · reviewed almost 2 years ago

star star star star star

Renda Maggio Esq. avatar

Gorham to Pinkham Notch via Mount Surprise and Wildcat Mountain Trail

FjordForestrunner84 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Prof. Robert Walsh avatar

Mount Quincy via Airline Trail and Short Line Trail

TrailmateCaveexplorer81 · reviewed almost 2 years ago

star star star star star

Frequently asked questions for hikes in New Hampshire

What is the climate like for hiking in New Hampshire?

New Hampshire experiences four distinct seasons, each offering a unique hiking experience. Spring (March-May) is mild but can be muddy due to snowmelt. Summer (June-August) offers the warmest hiking conditions, but staying hydrated is essential.
Fall (September-November), with its mild temperatures and vivid autumn colors, is a favorite among hikers. Winter (December-February) can be challenging due to cold and snow, but it offers serene beauty for well-equipped hikers. Always check the weather before heading out. The New Hampshire State Parks (https://www.nhstateparks.org/) and the Mount Washington Observatory (https://www.mountwashington.org/) provide valuable information.

Do I need a permit to hike in New Hampshire?

Most hiking trails in New Hampshire do not require permits, but certain activities like camping or fishing might. For more details and to obtain necessary permits, it's advisable to check with the New Hampshire Division of Parks and Recreation (https://www.nhstateparks.org/) and the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department (https://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/).

Is wild camping allowed in New Hampshire?

Wild camping in New Hampshire is generally allowed in national forests with some restrictions, while it's limited in state parks to designated campgrounds. Always follow Leave No Trace principles. For camping regulations, refer to the White Mountain National Forest website (https://www.fs.usda.gov/whitemountain) and the New Hampshire State Parks site (https://www.nhstateparks.org/).

Are there mountain rescue services in New Hampshire?

For emergencies during hiking in New Hampshire, dial 911 to reach local authorities who will coordinate with the appropriate rescue services. The New Hampshire Fish and Game Department's Law Enforcement Division also assists with search and rescue operations. Visit their website for more information (https://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/law-enforcement/index.html).

Are there dangerous plants in New Hampshire?

New Hampshire's hiking trails wind through forests of birch, beech, and maple, with beautiful wildflowers blooming in spring and summer. Hikers should be aware of poison ivy in wooded areas. For more information on local flora, the New Hampshire Wildflowers website (https://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/habitat/types.html#:~:text=Appalachian%20oak%2Dpine%20forests%20are,mountain%20laurel%2C%20and%20sugar%20maple.) is a great resource.

What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in New Hampshire?

Hikers in New Hampshire may encounter a variety of wildlife, including white-tailed deer, moose, and numerous bird species. Ticks and mosquitoes are common during warmer months. Black bears are present but seldom seen. Visit the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department's website (https://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/) for detailed wildlife information.

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