Why hike the Whites?
There are hundreds of mountains to explore!
The White Mountains National Forest, located in New Hampshire, USA, has hundreds of mountains to visit in a four seasons climate. It is home to the Presidential Range, a 20 mile traverse hike that takes you across seven 4,000-foot peaks, all named after U.S. presidents.
Mount Washington is the tallest peak in the Northeastern United States at 6,288 feet and is notorious for having wild weather. The Franconia Ridge Loop, featuring Mount Lafayette, was named one of the best hikes in the world by National Geographic in 2017.
There are also many smaller, more family-friendly hikes such as Mount Willard and the Welch-Dickey loop, which can be completed in an average of 2-4 hours and is featured in New Hampshire's "52 with a view" list. This hike is not advised in wet weather due to the granite slabs you must traverse, but it offers amazing views with less effort and is undeniably gorgeous during the fall foliage season!
Trails
My favorite hikes
Franconia Ridge Loop
A picturesque 8.1 mile loop trail that packs three peaks and a waterfall.
Elevation:
5,249'
Where to park
Parking is available at Old Bridle Path Trailhead in Franconia, NH.
Tuckerman Ravine Trail
A challenging 7.6 mile out-and-back trail to the summit of Mount Washington.
Elevation:
6,288'
Where to park
Parking is available at Pinkham Notch Visitor Center in Gorham, NH.
Welch-Dickey Loop
A popular 4.4 mile loop trail complete with granite slabs and amazing views.
Elevation:
2,734'
Where to park
Parking is available at Welch-Dickey Trailhead off Orris Road in Thorton, NH.