Sugarloafs - 2000 footers with Outstanding Views

View from Middle Sugarloaf Mountain, NH

I told my friend to pick out a hike that had great views, but that my 4 month-old puppy, Summit, could handle.  Her suggestion was a hidden gem - an under four mile hike with two peaks, amazing views, and lazy rivers.  This is a great hike for everyone from an experienced hiker to a family with small kids.  It was the perfect way to start summer.


Here is how to recreate this adventure...

Adventure:  Middle and North Sugarloaf Mountains, Twin Mountain, NH

Trailhead sign to Sugarloaf Mountains

Getting there:  The trailhead is located on Zealand Road (on the South Side of Route 302).  I took 93 North from Southern New Hampshire, took exit 35 to Route 3 North, and merged onto 302 East.  About 2 miles after the Rt 3/302 junction, turn right onto Zealand Road (large sign for Zealand campground).  Drive past the Sugarloaf campground entrances and park at the trailhead (sign). If you drive over the bridge, you've gone too far.

There are no bathrooms at the trailhead (but are at nearby campground).  There is a $3 per day cost to park at the trailhead.

Rock steps on trail.

Trail:  We took the Sugarloaf trail from the parking lot.  Early on, the trail walked near the river and then began a moderate ascent to the junction for both peaks.  Most of this portion of the trail is dirt and roots.  Although ascending, the terrain is fairly easy.  The last 0.2 miles gets steeper- with some rocky steps built into the trail.  After 0.7 miles, we reached a junction.  We turned left and took the 0.5 mile trail up the last 300 feet to the summit of Middle Sugarloaf (2539 feet).  This section had one section with a stair case - easy for adults, but could be challenging for small children (or in my case- puppies). 

Middle Sugarloaf had amazing 200° views of the Presedential Ridge and foothills.  We enjoyed laying out on the granite slab and soaking up the sun while enjoying our snacks and water.

From Middle Sugarloaf, we descended the 0.5 miles to the junction and continued straight to summit North Sugarloaf.  From the junction, this portion travels 0.4 miles up 200 feet to the summit of the north peak (2310 ft).  This had another awesome view and plenty of room to lounge in the sun.

We descended the way we came in - returning to the junction and hiking down the Sugarloaf Trail.  We stopped for a cool dip in the river before returning to our cars.

River near trailhead

Difficulty:  This is an easy to moderate trail hike for the White Mountain region.  It was a perfect start to my summer hiking season (I might have gotten a little out of shape), and it was easy for my puppy, Summit, to handle (with the exception of the stairs).  I recommend this for any hiker looking for great views at a low cost. 

Distance:  Approximately 3.2 miles round trip - longer if you leave from the campgrounds.

Recommendations:

• Remember to bring $3 for parking at the trailhead.
• There is no cell service at the trailhead. If you are meeting someone there, make sure they are aware that the trailhead is AFTER the Sugarloaf Campgrounds.
• This is a perfect hike for a busy summer weekend when all the better known trails are crowded.  You won't have to fight for a spot on the summit!
• Bring plenty of water (at least 1 L per person), a warm/waterproof layer, AMC trail map, and First Aid Kit.
• Enjoy a lunch/snack break on one of the summits.

Summit the dog on the summit

Sarah recommended the perfect hike to start our summer hiking season.  With great views, river soaks, and manageable terrain - don't forget to explore some of the smaller peaks in the White Mountains this season!

You might enjoy these other posts about family-friendly hikes in the White Mountains...


5 Best Family Hikes in the White Mountains
3 Great Spring Hikes in Northern New England
Kancamangus Cool Down


Please leave comments and questions below...

View from North Sugarloaf Mountain.

3 Great Spring Mountain Hikes in Northern New England

The snow is finally melting and you are putting your snowshoes back in the attic.  You know what this means...It's time for some spring hiking!  Here are three great spring hikes to try in Northern New England.

Summit of Chocura

1. Mt. Chocura - The Piper Trail - New Hampshire
This mountain hike is great anytime of year, but I love to summit in the spring, when the leaves are just starting to bud and the air is cool.  It is a moderate hike in the spring - traveling through hardwood forest, evergreen forest, and a rocky bald scramble to the peaked summit.  Although there are multiple ascents - all great hikes - I love a spring walk up the Piper Trail and back.  This 7.7 mile out and back is perfect for the experienced hiker and even experienced children and teens.  This is accessed right off Rt. 16 - 3 miles north of Chocura lake (check out the view of the mountain from here!)  There is a sign on the road that directs you into a dirt parking lot.  Parking is $3.  There are no facilities at the parking lot.


2.  Tumbledown Mountain - Brook Trail - Maine
Imagine hiking to the top of a mountain and finding...a lake!  Tumbledown Mountain in Western Maine has a

Summit of Tumbledown Mountain

unique summit and a great hike.  There are three trails to the summit.  The Brook Trail is the easiest trail.  It meanders through hardwood forests before turning and steeply climbing through the evergreen forest and emerging on a wide ridge with Tumbledown Pond and views of the Rangeley region.  The trail is a 3.0 mile out and back.  To access this trail, from Rumford, ME take Rt 17 to Weld.  Take a right on Weld Road.  About 2.5 miles down, bear right onto "Weld to Byron Road".  The Brook Trailhead is about 2 miles down the road on the right.  There is a dirt lot and parking is free.  There are no facilities at the parking lot.

Summit of Mt. Major

3.  Mt. Major - Boulder Loop Trail to Brook Trail - New Hampshire
This easy to moderate hike is a excursion for families, couples, or single hikers.  Located near the impressive Lake Winnipesaukee, this small mountain provides scenic views of the expansive lake and stunning Lakes Region.   The Boulder Loop Trail is the more challenging trail so I prefer to take the 1.4 mile up and return via the wider, more gradual 2.4 mile Brook Trail back.  The large and well signed trailhead is in Alton, New Hampshire - 4.2 miles north of Alton Bay.  Parking is free and there are no facilities at the parking lot.

Spring Hiking

Remember that Spring weather can be unpredictable.  Remember to wear layered clothing and pack first aid gear, map, compass, and raingear.  Check the weather before you leave and follow LNT guidelines. 



Spring is one of my favorite times to hike.  New green leaves, no crowds, and cool air - it's the perfect time of year to hit the trails.

You might also enjoy the following posts:


Pleasant Mountain, Maine
Mt. Greylock, Massachusetts
Mt. Monadnock, New Hampshire


 Please leave comments and questions below. 

Carter Notch Hut in Winter

Clear winter morning at Carter Notch Hut.

When my west-coast sister came out to New Hampshire for a few days,her one request was "Take me on a winter adventure!"  I decided to take her to my beloved White Mountain wilderness.  I booked us one night at the Carter Notch Hut - an Appalachian Mountain Club hut that serves as a self service accommodation in winter.  We experienced smooth, snow-packed trail, cold nights, and comforting fellowship. 

Here's how to recreate this adventure...

Adventure:  Carter Notch Hut overnight


Getting There: We took the 19 Mile Brook Trail out-and-back to access the Carter Notch Hut. 

19 Mile Brook Trailhead

This trail can be accessed on Rt 16 about 2-5 miles north of AMC Pinkham Notch Visitor Center/Joe Dodge Lodge.  To get there from Boston/Southern New Hampshire, take 1-95 North to the Spaulding Turnpike (Route 16) North.  It is approximately a 3 hour drive from Boston/2.5 hour from Exeter, New Hampshire.  After you pass Wildcat Ski area, the trail head is 1-2 miles further on the right and marked with a small "hiker" sign.  Parking is free in the winter but requires a National Forest park pass (purchasable at map/sign) in summer.  There are no bathrooms at the trail head. 

Trail:  We took the Nineteen Mile Brook Trail 1.9 miles to the Carter Dome Trail/Nineteen Mile Brook Trail junction.  This section is a mild ascent through boreal/evergreen forest.  The snowy and flowing Nineteen Mile Brook parallels the trail and at times, the two cross.  In winter, these crossings were easy.  From the junction, we continued on Nineteen Mile Brook Trail for 1.7 miles.  The trail continued with a moderate ascent.  A thick layer of packed snow made it easy on our knees.  Impressively, there was little ice, and although we had

Packed snow on 19 Mile Brook Trail

packed crampons and microspikes, we never felt the need to strap them on!  As we approached the hut, we got views of frozen alpine ponds and peeks of the steep cliffs of Wildcat Mountain on our right.  Near the hut, we linked up with the AT/Carter Moriah Trail for the last 0.1 mile to Carter Notch Hut.   Our hike up was moderate and gentle mountain climb through snow filled forest on a cold day.
The next morning, we returned the same way.

Difficulty: Due to perfect snow pack conditions, our trail was an easy to moderate climb.  However, bitterly cold weather and unpredictable winter conditions make this an adventure that should only be attempted by hikers with winter hiking experience and proper safety gear.

Distance: 7.2 miles round trip.  It took us 2.5 hours to make it up to the hut and about an hour back.

Carter Notch Hut:   Carter Notch Hut is a hundred-year-old mountain hut located in the valley

Carter Notch Hut

between Wildcat Mountain and Carter Dome.  In the summer, a team of staff members cook meals, provide bedding, and guide visitors who stay the night.  This is called the "full-service season".  In winter months, the hut changes over to a "self-service" facility.  One AMC staff member cares for the hut and helps guests who stay.  For a reasonable overnight fee ($26 for AMC members/$31 for nonmembers), guests get access to the kitchen (stove, dishes, and oven), as well as a bunk in the non-heated bunkhouse, and toilets.  After dark, the caretaker also runs a fire in the wood stove to warm guests and dry gear. 

On this 20 degree hiking day, Kelly and I greatly appreciated the access to hot water for drinks, a warm dinner and snuggle by the fire before dipping into our freezing bunkroom.  The crew member, Liz, was knowledgeable, welcoming, and helpful.  To pass the evening, Kelly and I took photos, explored the area, played cards, and chatted with Liz.  We made a hot dinner and sipped a cup of wine before heading to bed.  We had a memorable and peaceful experience at this iconic hut.

Inside of Carter Notch Hut

Recommendations: 

Gear -  This overnight trek is not for those who fear the cold.  We chose a very cold (but beautiful)

Crossing frozen pond in Carter Notch

weekday evening to make this trek.  Adventurers should bring proper winter hiking and safety equipment including: multiple warm/non-cotton layers, winter gloves, shell, warm hat, ski pants, long underwear, warm socks, winter boots, trekking poles, and boot traction (snowshoes, microspikes, or crampons).  Also, bring food for all meals, 2L of water per day (clean water available at hut), headlamp, map, compass, and first aid kit. 

It is VERY important you bring a sleeping bag that can handle the cold temperatures.  Kelly used a -30 degrees bag that kept her toasty in the frigid temps.  I brought a 20 degree bag along with a bivy - unfortunately - THIS WAS NOT WARM ENOUGH!  I was very uncomfortable and ended up cuddling up with my sister and sharing the roomy -30 bag. 

Reservations - We made our reservations weeks ahead online at outdoors.org, but since we went mid-week, it turned out that we were the only guests that night at the hut.

This was a wonderful way to experience winter hiking in the Northeast!  It was fun showing my sister the beauty of our winters.  The morning we woke up at the hut was clear and blue skies.  We marveled at the shear cliffs of Wildcat Mountain and Carter Dome that loomed above us and the twinkling white of the snow filled notch. I can't wait for the next adventure with my wonderful sister!

For another winter overnight, check out former blog posts below:
Cold Night on the Mountain

A great way to spend time with my sister.

Please leave comments and questions below. 

Cross Country Ski in Maine, NH, and VT

Trapp Family Outdoor Center, Stowe, VT

Although I grew up hitting the alpine slopes of Mt. Hood in Oregon, it wasn't until I moved to Maine as an adult that I tried cross country skiing. Since then, I have discovered that Northern New England is the perfect place to enjoy the sport.  With plenty of snow all winter long and extensive wilderness, it is America's cross country playground.

If you are new to the sport, cross country skiing is best experienced on flat or rolling hills terrain.  The leather boots are flexible compared to rigid alpine boots.  This makes turning and stopping more challenging then its downhill counterpart. 


Cross country skiing is also cheaper than downhill skiing.  In New England, it is easy to find snowy trails to explore for free. If you are new to New England, or new to cross country skiing, I recommend trying out a ski center that will provide rental gear and groomed trails at varied ability levels.

Here are my recommendations for Southern Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont cross country ski parks...

Taking a break, Maine

Southern Maine

Harris Farm
Location: Dayton, Maine
Website: http://www.harrisfarm.com/trail-fees-rentals-lessons.html
Rentals: Yes ($10-$20)
Lessons: Yes ($30-$60)
Trail Fees: ($8-$18)
Lodge: Yes
Snowshoe: Yes

There are many places to cross country ski in Maine.  I've always been partial to Harris Farm since this was where I first tried the sport.  Harris Farm is a 600 acre eco-friendly dairy and crop farm located on Buzzel Road in Dayton, Maine.  In the winter, the farm converts to a cross country park.  They offer 40 kilometers of trail ranging from beginners loops to advanced hills with views of fields and forest.  It is a great family outing and local secret.  After an adventure, skiers can purchase food/drink or bring their own to the lodge.  Dogs are welcome on the trails on weekdays.


New Hampshire

Great Glen Trails
Location: Gorham, New Hampshire
Website: https://greatglentrails.com/xcskiing
Rentals: Yes ($10-$20)
Lessons:  Yes ($35-$45)
Trail Fees:  ($10-$22)
Lodge:  Yes
Snowshoe: Yes

Views from Great Glen Trails - White Mountains, NH

Great Glen Trails is a outdoor adventure outfitter that provides lessons, gear, and 40 kilometers of groomed trail for everyone from beginners to advanced skiers.  It is located on Route 16 at the start of the Mt. Washington Auto Road.  The Outdoor Center offers tubing, snowshoeing and skiing.  You can purchase lessons from experts, including the opportunity to ski with a former US Olympian.  When skiing with Great Glen, you'll also enjoy amazing views of the White Mountains and Mt. Washington. 



Vermont

Trapp Family Lodge
Location:  Stowe, Vermont
Website: https://www.trappfamily.com/activities/cross-country-skiing
Rentals:  Yes ($20-$30 with week packages)
Lessons:  Yes ($30 with week and rental packages)
Trail Fees: ($10-$20 with week packages)
Lodge: Yes

Skiing to warming hut at Trapp Family Lodge

Snowshoe: Yes

The Trapp Family Lodge offers the largest trail system of the three, with over 100 kilometers of trails.  This outdoor center is part of the Trapp Family Resort - the family made famous by the Sound of Music.  Knowledgeable staff and endless options makes it not a day destination - but a week!  I love the diverse trails through forest and fields with views of the Green Mountain range of Vermont.  This center is located on Trapp Hill Road in Stowe Vermont. 

I've discovered that cross country skiing is as much a New England tradition as lobster dinners and Red Sox games.  There are many places to explore and adventure on skis.  Once you get the hang on it on one of the resorts, try exploring into local trails, farms, and parks.  While gracefully gliding through New England on skis, I recall the first stanza of New Hampshire poet Robert Frost's poem "Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening"...

Whose woods these are I think I know.   

His house is in the village though;   

He will not see me stopping here   

To watch his woods fill up with snow

Stopping by woods on a snowy evening...

Please leave comments and questions below...

Pawtuckaway in Winter

Beautiful Snowy Day Hike!

Looking for a mountain view in Southern New Hampshire?  Go no further than Pawtuckaway State Park in Nottingham, New Hampshire.  This 5,000 acre preserve is located just 38 miles from Boston.  Matt and I drive the 20 minutes from Exeter to this local hike.  We took Rt 156 to the Mountain Road entrance.  After parking in the snowy parking lot, we walked down the unplowed road to the Mountain Trail.  Hiking past frozen ponds and hardwood forests, we made tracks to the South Ridge trail where we turned right to reach the summit of South Mountain (908 feet) and fire tower.  Here is how to recreate this adventure...


Adventure:  Pawtuckaway South Mountain snow hike

Getting there: From Exeter, NH, I took Highway 101 East to Exit 5.  Take 156/102/107 toward Nottingham.  Turn left on Nottingham Rd/156-N and turn left on Mountain Road.  Look for signs for the Pawtuckaway State Park Visitor Center.

Trail: We hiked the 6 mile out and back up to the South Mountain peak (908') from the visitor center.  Take the Mountain Trail to the South Ridge Trail right towards the fire tower and summit. The trail is mostly flat with the last mile a moderate scramble to the summit.  Prior to the fire tower you will get a open view of the valley below as well as another partial view from the fire tower summit.

Difficulty:  Easy to Moderate - The trail in snow was easy for 90% of the hike.  With little to no traction, we easily walked the flat and wide trail towards the peak.  The last mile, I used my micro-spikes to scramble the moderate climb.  Matt did fine without, but it took a little more effort.  We met a few other hikers using snow shoes, but the trail was packed enough to go without.  This is a great option for first time snow hikers or families.

Distance: 6 miles round trip, 2-2.5 hours

Recommendations: 
- Pick up a complementary trail map from the parking lot.
- Bring a simple traction for the last mile that you can keep in your pack (micro spikes or yak trax).
- Dress in non cotton layers that can be shed when you get hot.
- Pack water, snack, waterproof snow boots (I wear LL Bean snow boots), and a cell phone.


Matt and I had a great adventure hiking up the local Pawtuckaway State Park.  I can't wait to go back and explore some more!

Please leave comments and question below....