4 Days in Newport, RI: A Family-Friendly Itinerary with Mansions, Seafood & Sunsets

4 days in Newport with my bestie and
my kids - mansions, seafood, and sunsets.

Every year my friend Leanne and I plan a girls' trip somewhere new. This year's destination was Newport, Rhode Island - a place that had quietly climbed to the top of my travel wish list after I became completely hooked on HBO's The Gilded Age. After watching the extravagant mansions and imagining life during America's Gilded Age, I knew I had to see Newport for myself.

The twist? This year my two kids (ages 8 and 10) came along.

What I expected to be a history-filled getaway turned into one of our favorite family trips. Newport surprised me with how easy it was to balance historic sightseeing with kid-friendly fun. Between mansion tours, arcade games, swimming, seafood feasts, sunset cruises, and plenty of ice cream, everyone found something to love.

The biggest splurge? Definitely the food. We made it our mission to chase incredible seafood, creative cocktails, and as many sweet treats as we could fit into four days.

The crew - me, Leanne, and my kids (age 8 & 10)

Where We Stayed

We stayed at Wayfinder Newport, which I chose for affordability without comfort and convience. The pool gave the kids a chance to unwind every afternoon, and one of our favorite perks was the complimentary shuttle to Bowen's Wharf. Not having to worry about parking in downtown Newport made exploring so much easier.

The outdoor pool was a big win for my kids. 
It also had floaties, loungers, and a pool bar.

Day 1: Boats, Chowder & Golden Hour on the Water

We arrived in Newport around 1:00 p.m. and were lucky enough to get an early check-in. The kids immediately changed into swimsuits and spent some time in the pool while we settled in.

That evening we hopped aboard the hotel's complimentary shuttle to Bowen's Wharf and wandered through the shops along Thames Street.

For our first Newport meal, we chose Newport Chowder Company, where I highly recommend ordering the clam chowder with the lobster topper. We also made our first stop at Nitro Bar to see what all the hype was about - and yes, the nitro coffee lives up to it.

Chowder with a "lobster topper"

Plenty of shops and eateries at the wharfs

The highlight of our first day was a Gansett sunset cruise. As the boat cruised through Newport Harbor, we passed enormous yachts, Fort Adams, Castle Hill, and even got to watch the Monday night sailboat races. It was one of those experiences that immediately makes you feel like you're on vacation.  We had originally looked into a sail - but most sailboats didn't allow children.

Back on shore we grabbed Ben & Jerry's, watched the sunset from the wharf, and caught the shuttle back to the hotel.

Monday Night sailing races in Narragansett Bay

Sunset in Newport

Day 2: Touring The Breakers & Walking the Cliff Walk

We kept breakfast simple with bagels and cereal at the hotel before heading to The Breakers for our 9:00 a.m. entry.

If you're visiting in summer, I highly recommend booking the first tour of the day. Parking was plentiful, and it felt much less crowded.

The self-guided audio tour is done through your phone. There is a children's version available, but each child needs their own device. I brought along a couple of old phones and downloaded the audio before arriving, which made everything much easier. Don't forget headphones!

You'll need to download the audio tour and have headphones

The extravagance in The Breakers was impressive

Even the kids really enjoyed exploring the mansion. The stories behind each room helped bring the incredible architecture and Gilded Age history to life.

After touring the mansion, we walked part of the famous Cliff Walk out to the Chinese Tea House before returning the same way.

Cliff Walk is long - we only did a section.

Cliff Walk has some rocky portions.

Back at the hotel we enjoyed packed picnic lunch and another swim before taking the shuttle downtown again.

The kids were thrilled to discover Ryan's Amusement Arcade, which quickly became one of their favorite Newport attractions.

Ryan Amusement on Thames was a
kid-friendly break.

Dinner that evening was at The Mooring Restaurant, where reservations are definitely worth making in advance. The seafood was outstanding, and it was one of our favorite meals of the trip.

After dinner we wandered Thames Street again, eventually finding the colorful umbrella-lined Swinburne Row.

Unfortunately, Mother Nature had other plans. A major summer rainstorm rolled in, soaking all of us before we hurried back to the shuttle and called it a night.

Umbrellas on a rainy day in Newport

Day 3: Cinnamon Rolls, Historic Taverns & Sunset at Castle Hill

Our morning started with one of Newport's most famous treats - a sourdough cinnamon roll from Co-Dough. Pair that with another nitro coffee from the Nitro Bar location at Equality Park, and I completely understood why people wait in line for both.

Co-dough sourdough cinnamon roll and nitro coffee drink

The kids wanted another round at Ryan's Arcade while Leanne enjoyed some shopping before we met for lunch at the iconic Clarke Cooke House.  I ordered the crab cake along with a classic Narragansett beer while soaking in the harbor views.

Lunch spot at Clarke Cooke House

Great Lunch spot at Clarke Cooke House

Dessert came next with frozen Del's Lemonade on America's Cup Avenue.

Yes...dessert before another pool break.

Frozen Lemonade on Dels

Later that afternoon we headed to White Horse Tavern, America's oldest operating restaurant, serving guests since 1673.  This ended up being my favorite dinner of the trip.  The bacon-wrapped scallops were incredible, and somehow my son managed to finish every bite of his beef Wellington. If you go, don't skip the famous "Candy Bar" dessert.

A fancier attire and vibe at White Horse Tavern

Because we had an early dinner reservation, we still had time to catch sunset at Castle Hill Inn.  Before settling in on the lawn, we took the short five-minute walk to Castle Hill Lighthouse.  Then we grabbed a set of Adirondack chairs overlooking Narragansett Bay. The chairs are first-come, first-served, so arriving early definitely helped.

Cocktails for the adults, Shirley Temples for the kids, sailboats drifting by, and one of the prettiest sunsets of the trip - it was the perfect way to end our final evening.

Castle Hill Lighthouse

Relaxing spot on Castle Hill Inn Lawn - chairs are first come

Waiters will come to you once you sit down for your drink order.

Day 4: One Last Newport Food Stop

Our last morning was spent packing, squeezing in one final swim, and making one final food stop before driving home.  We couldn't leave Newport without visiting Wally's Wieners, where we ordered the towering five-hot-dog and curly fry platter.  Milkshakes made the perfect finale before we hit the road back to New Hampshire.

Wally's Weiners was a great lunch spot!

Tips for Planning Your Newport Trip

• Make restaurant reservations: Some of Newport's most popular restaurants book up well in advance, especially during summer weekends.

• Visit midweek if possible: One of the best decisions we made was traveling Monday through Thursday. I'd seen videos of hour-long waits for Nitro Bar, Co-Dough, and restaurants around Bowen's Wharf. During our midweek visit, we experienced only short waits and a much more relaxed atmosphere.

• Take advantage of hotel shuttles: The complimentary shuttle from Wayfinder saved us both money and the hassle of finding parking downtown.

• Download mansion audio tours ahead of time: If you're traveling with kids, download the audio tour before you arrive and bring headphones. It makes the experience much smoother.

• Book tours early: We had hoped to take the Viking Trolley Tour during our stay, but it was already sold out by the time we looked. If it's on your list, reserve tickets ahead of time.

If you're traveling with kids...

• The hotel pool was absolutely worth it for afternoon downtime.
• Ryan's Amusement Arcade ended up being one of the highlights for both of my kids.
• Next time we'd love to visit the Audrain Automobile Museum and the Sailing Museum, which we just couldn't fit into this itinerary.
• If you're planning to watch sunset at Castle Hill, I'd also recommend bringing a deck of cards or a travel game for the kids. I brought a blanket so they had somewhere to sit on the lawn, and it worked perfectly while I soaked in the view.  

Final Thoughts

Newport completely exceeded my expectations.  I originally planned this trip because I wanted to immerse myself in the Gilded Age history, but I left realizing Newport is just as much a destination for families as it is for history lovers.

Whether you're touring opulent mansions, sailing past million-dollar yachts, eating incredible seafood, watching sunsets over Narragansett Bay, or simply letting kids burn off energy at the arcade and pool, Newport offers a little bit of everything.

It was the perfect mix of girls' getaway and family vacation - and I already know we'll be back.

Can't wait to go back to Newport!

Want More? Check out my instagram for video and read my blogs about similar trips here:

Family Weekend in NYC

Puerto Rico Family Vaca

3 Days in Key Largo

1 Week Girls Trip in Southern Florida

Newport Rhode Island - perfect four days

A Family Adventure in New Hampshire’s Monadnock Region

This summer, our family set out to explore New Hampshire’s Monadnock Region as part of a partnership with Visit Monadnock. What we discovered is that this corner of the state is the perfect destination for active families. Between the hiking, biking, farm adventure, and family-friendly attractions, we barely scratched the surface of what the region has to offer.

What is the Monadnock Region?

The Monadnock Region is located in the southwest corner of New Hampshire, centered around the iconic Mount Monadnock, one of the most climbed mountains in the world. But it’s more than just a mountain - this area includes charming small towns like Keene, Jaffrey, and Peterborough, plus countless lakes, forests, and cultural gems. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures or downtown strolls, it’s a beautiful spot for families to slow down and connect.

Our Family-Friendly Itinerary

Friday: Arrival at the Inn at East Hill Farm

We kicked off our trip at East Hill Farm, an all-inclusive, family-focused getaway at the base of Mount Monadnock. From the moment we arrived, the staff made us feel at home. We toured the property, swam in one of their three pools, and sat down to a hearty turkey dinner. That evening, the kids loved the glow party that was fun with dancing, lights, and plenty of energy burned off before bed. 

View from the pool in front of our room at East Hill Farm in Troy, NH

East Hill Farm had animals to meet, amazing meals (all included), and family-friendly activities.

Saturday: Farm Fun and Downtown Keene

After a made-to-order breakfast (literally anything you can dream up), the kids jumped into farm life. They had the option to milk cows and goats, pet bunnies, pet goats, and check in on the chickens. We spent the morning pedaling a boat around the farm’s pond and joining activities like ice cream making and friendship bracelet crafts. Lunch was included before we packed up and headed to Keene.

Our first stop in town was the Keene Bike Park, a pump-track-style park where the kids zipped around on bikes and scooters. Then we checked into the Carriage Barn Inn, a cozy inn right in downtown Keene. We explored the charming shops, grabbed burgers and fries at Fritz, and treated ourselves to frozen yogurt at YOLO Café. To top it all off, we listened to live music at the town bandstand - a perfect summer night in Keene.

Keene had a ton to offer - shops, food, culture, and nature.

Sunday: Mount Monadnock & Spofford Lake

We set alarms for an early start to hike Mount Monadnock. Parking reservations are required ($16) at the park headquarters, so we reserved in advance. We hiked the White Dot Trail up and descended the White Cross Trail. It is a 3.9-mile loop with 1,774 feet of elevation gain. It’s a challenging climb with open slab and spots that require a bit of fancy footwork, but our family made it to the summit and back in about four hours. The views stretched across all of New England and were worth every step.

Afterward, we celebrated with giant portions of ice cream at Kimball Farm in Jaffrey, then headed to Ware’s Grove Beach on Spofford Lake. Non-resident admission costs a small fee, but it was well worth it: a sandy beach, concessions, playground, and warm, clear water with a sandy bottom made it a family favorite.

That evening, we returned to Keene and had dinner at Buba Noodle Bar. The kids devoured bao dumpling sandwiches and crab rangoon spring rolls, while Matt and I enjoyed pho and ramen. 

Mt Monadnock is a challenging, yet rewarding climb.

This small ice cream from Kimballs was HUGE!

Monday: Bookshops & Rail Trails

On our final morning, we checked out of the inn and enjoyed a hearty breakfast at Yellow Bell Café. Before heading home, we stopped at Toadstool Bookshop, an independent bookstore where the kids picked out new reads. Our last adventure was biking a section of the Ashuelot Recreational Rail Trail, a flat, scenic path perfect for families. 

Delicious huevos rancheros at Yellow Bell Cafe

Best Things to Do with Kids in the Monadnock Region

If you’re planning your own family trip, here are some highlights we recommend:

• Stay at East Hill Farm – a perfect mix of farm fun, activities, and relaxation for families.

• Hike Mount Monadnock – best for older kids who can handle a moderately challenging hike.

• Swim at Ware’s Grove Beach – sandy shores, playground, and clear lake water.

• Bike the Keene Rail Trail – flat and family-friendly, great for all ages.

• Visit Keene Bike Park – a fun spot for kids on bikes or scooters.

• Explore downtown Keene – from live music on the green to shops and kid-approved eats like Fritz and YOLO Café.

• Pick out books at Toadstool Bookshop – a cozy local spot perfect for rainy-day browsing.

• NEXT TIME - We didn't get a chance to visit the Keene Children's Museum, participate in the rail trail passport program, or visit some of the other, small hikes in the area. I'd also love to go back and visit the town of Peterborough because I've heard such good things! 

  

  Swimming at Ware's Grove Beach was a big hit.

  
  

  

  We could have easily spent a week at East Hill Farm - so many activities!

  
  

Why Families Will Love the Monadnock Region

This trip proved that the Monadnock Region is a playground for active families. From swimming and biking to hiking one of the most famous peaks in the world, there’s something for every age and ability level. Add in charming towns, delicious food, and family-friendly accommodations, and it’s a destination we can’t wait to return to.

We only just began to uncover all that this region has to offer, and we’re already planning our next trip back.  Visit Freelance Adventurer or Visit Monadnock instagram for more photos and videos!

You might also enjoy these similar adventures:

- Family Friendly Northern White Mountains Weekend 

- 24 Hour Affordable Getaway in the White Mountains with Kids

- Ogunquit Maine for Families

Spring Family Weekend in the White Mountains

 Spring in the White Mountains is a shoulder season.  While the cherry blossoms and tulips are blooming in southern New England, northern New Hampshire is just beginning to thaw.  As a result, tourists keep their distance until late June and it's a quiet place to visit.  That said, this can be a perfect time to take advantage of low-season accommodations, quiet trails, and an awakening of life in the mountains.  Here's a rundown of my spring family weekend in the White Mountains.

Dates

Early May to late June are off-season in the White Mountains.  If you go when we did, the first weekend in May (Mother's Day weekend), you'll likely beat the black flies, see some great wildflowers, experience rushing waterfalls, and find empty trailheads.  The downside is, trees are usually still bare and trail conditions are unpredictable - with possible mud and even snow.

Location

We LOVED our vacation rental.  This was the second time this year I booked a stay with Bretton Woods Vacations.  This family-owned business manages multiple homes in the White Mountains.  We stayed at Owls Roost - a beautiful cabin on 32 acres - complete with easy trails, mountain views, a river beach and a swimming hole.  It's also pet friendly so we brought Summit!  The house had three bedrooms, kitchen, loft playroom, living room, fire pit, and deck.

Our rental cabin Owls Roost by Bretton Woods Vacations

We ate all our meals at the rental

Activities

Bretton Woods is located just north of Crawford Notch State Park in the White Mountain wilderness.  It's one of my favorite hiking locations.  This is because it is home to my favorite 4000 footer, New Hampshire's tallest waterfall, and a hike that has the best bang for your buck in the Whites. For this trip, I wanted to take advantage of Crawford Notch's easier hikes that my kids would enjoy but still have some awesome views.  Here were our excursions:

Kid-Friendly Hikes

Ripley Falls: Ripley Falls is a 1.2 mile out-and-back hike that climbs about 400 feet in elevation to a tall slabby waterfall.  The hike is moderately difficult - with one narrow part along a gorge that made me nervous with the little kids.  My four and six year old managed the hike totally fine with a couple snack breaks.  They loved climbing the boulders at the base of the falls and feeling the spray.  It was a perfect morning hike.  New Hampshire State Parks charges $5 to an iron ranger for parking at the trailhead.  The AllTrails link to the trailhead is here.

Ripley Falls in Crawford Notch State Park

Elephant Head: Elephant Head is a short 0.6 mile out-and-back up to a cliff in Crawford Notch.  The view is a ton of bang for your buck and a great place if you're short on time and want a view.  The trail climbs up rocks and roots on a moderately difficult trail.  Because of the short distance, my four and six year old handled it fine.  The most challenging parts for my four year old was the prevalence of decaying bog bridges that was a balancing act to traverse.  At the cliff, enjoy views of the notch both ways.  You can even see the red roofs of the iconic Mount Washington Hotel to the north.  If you have a little more time, also tag on the Around The Lake trail that's right next to it!

On Elephant Head in
Crawford Notch State Park

Ammonoosuc River:  Our rental at Bretton Woods Vacations had an easy trail system that took us to beaches and a swimming hole on the Ammonoosuc River.  This trail system is only available to those who rent one of three properties on their Moose Lodge and Cabins properties.  However, even if you aren't staying there, you can enjoy this river and it's short. Try the Ammonoosuc River Loop - a 2 mile, easy trail that grants views and access to the river.

Playing on the sandy beach at the
Ammonoosuc River at our rental property

AMC Highland Center Playscape

One of my kids favorite parts of the trip was playing at the Appalachian Mountain Club's Highland Center Playscape.  The Highland Center is a large lodge for dining, overnight accommodations, and guided trips.  It is a prominent feature in the northern edge of Crawford Notch State Park and the main hub for multiple highly trafficked hikes.  Free to use- the center has a large wood, stone, and rope play structure that blends with the natural landscape.  My children love traversing the suspension bridge, crawling in caves, and climbing the ropes.  This free attraction is perfect for age 4-10.  Plus, there's access to bathrooms, food, and gear store in the center.  Parking is limited in the high season, but May is relatively empty.

AMC Highland Center playscape is free and fun

Pros and Cons of Bretton Woods Location

I'm frequently asked where to stay in the White Mountains region.  It really depends on what you're looking for.  If you want a bustling town with proximity to restaurants, parks, museums, and shopping - stay in North Conway - you'll get the town experience and will be close to hikes.  If you'd like quiet, nature, and don't need town - Bretton Woods is an awesome choice.  We made our own meals at the cabin, had s'mores in the fire pit, listened to the peeper frogs and saw the stars.  It was a perfect weekend for what we where looking for.  

Bretton Woods is perfect if you want to
getaway from town and into the mountains

Crawford Notch offers some great kid-friendly hiking

For more images of my spring family weekend in the White Mountains, visit my instagram for video and photos.  Happy Hiking!

You might also enjoy these posts:

5 Best Family Hikes in the Whites
24 Hour Bretton Woods Getaway
3 Great Spring Mountain Hikes in New England

Little Harbor Loop Trail - A Portsmouth Treasure

 In my pursuit to find all the best Seacoast hikes, I realized I had left out what many would consider the "capital" of the Seacoast - the city of Portsmouth.  I've done many trails near Portsmouth - Great Bay, Peverly Pond, and Fort Constitution , but very few nature walks actually within the city limits.  I did some research and decided to try Little Harbor Loop Hike.  I liked it so much, the next day I went back with the kids!

Here's how to recreate this adventure...

Adventure: Little Harbor Loop Trail

Getting there:  Little Harbor Loop trail has three possible parking areas along the trail.  One is at Wentworth-Coolidge Mansion located at the address: 375 Little Harbor Road in Portsmouth, New Hampshire.  This historic site and grounds is managed by New Hampshire State Parks and offers free parking and a trailhead to the loop.  The other two parking areas are located on the Creek Farm Reservation Property which is maintained by the Society for the Protection of New Hampshire Forests.

The Little Harbor Loop Trial is well signed. 
Follow the yellow blazes!

Trail:  The trailhead to Little Harbor Loop is right in the parking lot to the Wentworth-Coolidge parking lot and marked with a small wooden sign and a gap in the woods.  The important thing to note on this trail is to follow the yellow blazes.  The trail is well marked but there are several unmarked offshoots where a hiker could get off course.  Stay on the yellow trail and you’ll be fine.

The hike begins in the woods.  You will hike over uneven terrain of rocks and roots.  The trail winds through woods, crossing a driveway, passing through two rock walls, and eventually to a trail junction sign that shows you can veer off the loop to the right to visit the “view spur”.  This is definitely worth it.  Take the spur and you will be rewarded with views of the tidal bay, rocky shoreline, and a grassy marsh.  Return the way you came and continue on the yellow-blazed loop.

The trail will cross the road and enter the well signed “Creek Farm Reservation” and second parking lot.  The trail is well signed, but travels along the road - yellow blazes marked on trees on the shoulder until entering the third parking lot for this hike near the Shoals Marine Laboratory and Sagamore Creek Boat Car Top Boat Launch.

The trail continues around the grounds of the impressive building and hugs the shore, curving around an inlet marked on the map as a tidal pool. Continue to follow the yellow blazes (now marked on stones), along the shore with views of Goose Island on your right.  

The trail will cut back inland and travel the road back to the parking lot of Wentworth-Coolidge Mansion.

Part of the Little Harbor Loop Trail walks along the road. 
Follow the yellow blazes.

Difficulty: Mostly easy with some root/rocky footing in the first half mile.

Distance: 1.5 miles

Recommendations:

• Little Harbor Loop Trail is managed by the New Hampshire state parks and the Society for the Protection of New Hampshire Forests.  It is open dawn to dusk.

• A trail map is available on the Wentworth-Coolidge Mansion website.

• Dogs are not allowed on the trail.

• At low tide visitors can walk out to some of the close islands and tidal pool areas. Be mindful of the tide so you don’t get stuck.

• The first half mile of the trail from Wentworth-Coolidge Mansion has a series of unmarked offshoot trails.  Stick to the yellow loop so not to impact more areas with unofficial trails- with the exception of the marked viewpoint.

I really enjoyed Little Harbor Loop twice this week. When I brought the kids, we didn't do the full loop - we just went down to the viewpoint and back.  This was the perfect length for my 2 year old.  Afterwards we enjoyed the lawn and waterfront views of the Wentworth-Coolidge Mansion who's grounds were open to the public.  I hope you get to enjoy it too!

See more photos and adventure on my INSTAGRAM and FACEBOOK!

Little Harbor Loop Trial in Portsmouth, New Hampshire

You might enjoy these similar experiences...

- Cutts Island Trail in Kittery

- Stonehouse Pond in Barrington

- Little River Park Loop in Lee

Morgan and Percival Loop: Ladders, Caves, and Amazing Views

Somehow I'd gone this far being an avid New Hampshire hiker without even hearing about the Mount Morgan and Mount Percival peaks.  Then, thanks to social media, I've been seeing photos of people climbing ladders, pushing packs through narrow rock holes, and enjoying stunning views on these lakes region peaks.  The first chance I got, I wrangled two work friends into joining me and we thrilled at the Morgan and Percival loop hike.  

Here's how to recreate this adventure...

Adventure: Mount Morgan and Mount Percival Loop 

Getting there: These lakes region peaks are located near Squam Lake in Center Sandwich, New Hampshire.  To get there from the Seacoast, I took 101 West to 93 North.  From there, take exit 24 onto Route US-3, NH-25 toward Ashland/Holderness.  Follow US-3 for 4.5 miles, then turn left onto NH-113.  The trailhead will be on the left after 5.5 miles. There is an overflow parking lot across the street, however, be warned - this trail has been extremely popular this summer and even on a weekday morning, my friend and I got the last spot open at 10 am.  Weekday hikers should plan for 9 am or earlier and weekend possible earlier!

After ladders, hikers crawl through cave on Mount Morgan

Trail: 

    Both peaks can be hit in a loop.  It was recommended to travel clockwise - hitting Mount Morgan first.  To do this, from the trailhead, hike about 0.1 mile to the junction where the trails meet.  Veer left on the Mount Morgan trail.  The trail ascends consistently through hardwood forest with moderate terrain.  The trail leads to a set of three ladders that allows you to climb a rock face.  THIS IS OPTIONAL!  My friend Kaley and her dog took the bypass while Danielle and I took the ladders.  Footwork is a little tricky on the third ladder.  Once up the ladders, the trail continues through a short and narrow cave.  Crawl through the rock and you will climb out onto a beautiful ledge with stunning views of the lakes and peaks below.  I really enjoyed this experience but those who are afraid of heights, struggle with mobility, young children, dogs, and large packs should take the bypass.  

    After the ledge, there is a short and somewhat difficult slab with high exposure to get to the near-summit view.  We spent a good half hour on this ledge view where the two trails meet up again.  From there, you will head back into the woods and pass the official summit of Mount Morgan (no view).  Continue onto the Crawford-Ridgepole trail through short, dense forest to Mount Percival.

    Mount Percival's summit has even more expansive views of lakes and peaks below.  The challenging portion of Mount Percival is directly below the summit - where hikers quickly descend into a boulder field followed by caves and rock outcrops.  At one point, we all had to remove our packs (even my small one) to descend a vertical drop into a hole.  I felt like Indiana Jones!  Looking at the map, there is a bypass for this as well, however we didn't take it.  This would be impossible for a large dog that could not be carried, a large pack (like baby carrier), or those with mobility issues.

    After the exciting caves, continue a moderate/steady descent on the Mount Percival Trail.  To get back to the parking lot, take the Morse Trail at the junction (unless you parked at the Percival parking lot), to return to your car.  

Crawling over boulders and caves on Mount Percival

Difficulty: Moderate with (optional) sections of difficulty - ladders, caves, and rock ledge/boulders

Distance: Entire loop is 5.1 miles

Enjoying the view on Mount Morgan, New Hampshire

Recommendations: 

- Take the clockwise loop with Mt Morgan first. This way you will be going with the flow of other hikers and also won't have to go down ladders.

- Parking is limited and fills fast on this popular hike.  Also, we did not have cell service in the parking lot.  Plan ahead and have a back up plan if the parking lot is full.  Street parking is prohibited. 

- There are no bathroom facilities available.

- Dogs are allowed on the trail but it is not advisable to take dogs on ladders and caves.  Take the optional bypass.  

- I do not advise carrying a baby-carrier on this hike.  The cave crawling is narrow and tight.  It would be extremely challenging and possibly unsafe to travel with a baby.

- Weather watch - ladders and caves are dangerous when wet.

- Practice LNT, practice social distancing, and wear a mask.

- Want to see what I packed for this hike? Check it out at my IGTV.

You might also enjoy these similar adventures:

- 5 Miles, 3 Peaks, 1 Loop: Day Hike in New Hampshire's Lakes Region

- Welch-Dickey Loop

- Mt Carrigan Loop