This week Blissful Hiking welcomes guest blogger Kevin Devoto with some of his picks for day hikes in the White Mountains of New Hampshire, ranging from easy to difficult. Go on out an enjoy the fall with some great hiking!
Great Hikes in the Great Whites
Few places are better than New Hampshire when it comes to
majestic scenery and the great outdoors. Set against the backdrop of the White
Mountains, some of the best hikes in the world can be found there in the
boundaries of the granite state. So if you are a keen hiker, or just a lover of
the outdoors, this is the place for you. For accommodations, consider nearby North Conway. Hotels,
motels, and other kinds of accommodations including camping are easy and
plentiful to find in the area.
Here are four great hikes in the White Mountains that you’ll
be sure to enjoy.
Boulder Loop Trail
Length: 2.8 miles
This is a trail that is perfect for a group with varying
hiking abilities, at just under three miles long, you can move at whichever
pace you choose and still be done in a timely manner. In the case of this trail
however, it might be worth it to slow down a little, as the views to be had are
absolutely stunning. For the more adventurous hiker, you can strap on some
snowshoes and hike it in the winter. In the summer or fall however, it should
take you around two to four hours.
Mount Chocorua Summit
Difficulty: Difficult
Length: 10 miles
For those who enjoy a challenge, but still want to finish
their hike the same day, the hike to the summit of Mount
Chocorua is the perfect option. If you are
prepared for the long haul, you will be rewarded with a stunning view at the
summit. It should take you half a day, but you can take your time and spend a
full day on it. It is dog friendly, and family friendly—as long as you are all
in good shape. Be sure to bring some cash to park at the trailhead, as it will
cost $3 to park there for the day.
Mount Potash Summit
Difficulty: Medium
Length: 4 miles
If Mount Chocorua seems like a bit too much of a challenge
or time commitment, Mount Potash is a slightly easier alternative. The hike to
the summit and back should take you about four hours, and will offer you views
to rival those of the Chocorua summit. There are some steep parts of the trail,
and some sheer ledges at places, but although those require caution they also
provide some of the best views of the hike.
Greeley Ponds Trail
Difficulty: Easy
Length: 5 miles
Located along the picture-perfect Kancamagus Scenic Byway,
the Greeley Ponds trail gives you a chance to see a different
side of the White Mountains. There are two ponds, the Upper and the Lower
Greeley Pond. This casual hike will only take you two to three hours, and can
be enjoyed by people of all hiking abilities. Take lunch and make a day of it
as you enjoy the contrast of the green water and majestic cliff faces. You can
also fish in both ponds.
Author Bio: Kevin Devoto is an avid
outdoor enthusiast and freelance writer. He enjoys writing about
sustainability, eco-friendly behaviors and local travel. He has traveled all
over the world but has taken a particular interest in our great National Parks.
Other Links of Interest:
Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC) - guidebooks and maps, hiker shuttle service
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