The best family-friendly hikes and walks in White Mountain National Forest

The North Kinsman, South Peak and Cannon Balls Loop Trail is a demanding but incredibly rewarding journey through Franconia Notch State Park. You'll navigate rugged terrain, including steep climbs, rocky sections, and challenging scrambles over the unique Cannonballs. Along the way, the trail offers diverse scenery, from the tranquil waters of Lonesome Lake and Kinsman Pond to the exposed, windy summits providing spectacular 180-degree views of Cannon Mountain and the Franconia Ridge.

This difficult 10.9-mile (17.5 km) loop, with its 3934 feet (1199 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 7 hours and 48 minutes, though many hikers find it takes longer. Parking is available at Lafayette Place Campground, a popular trailhead, so an early start is recommended, especially on busy days. Be prepared for potentially wet and muddy sections, and remember that microspikes or snowshoes are crucial if you're tackling this route in colder, icy conditions.

This loop is a prime example of the rugged beauty of the White Mountains, allowing you to summit three New Hampshire 4,000-footers: Cannon Mountain, North Kinsman, and South Kinsman. The route also features the picturesque Lonesome Lake, home to an Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC) hut, offering a chance for a brief respite or even an overnight stay during its full-service season. It's a true test of endurance for experienced hikers seeking a memorable adventure.

Prepare for a difficult hike up Mount Washington via the Tuckerman Ravine Trail, a challenging ascent covering 4.0 miles (6.5 km). You will gain a significant 4202 feet (1281 metres) in elevation, with an estimated duration of 3 hours and 21 minutes to reach the summit. The route begins with pleasant woodland views, passing the picturesque Crystal Cascade waterfall, before the terrain changes dramatically. As you climb, you will enter the impressive Tuckerman Ravine, navigating over boulders on the headwall for increasingly spectacular views above the treeline.

Planning your visit requires careful attention to Mount Washington's famously unpredictable weather. The trail starts at the Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC) Pinkham Notch Visitor Center; it is wise to check current conditions there before you begin. In winter and spring, the Tuckerman Ravine headwall can be impassable and closed due to snow, ice, and avalanche hazards, often requiring technical gear. Even during summer and fall, you should be ready for high winds, low visibility, and rapid temperature changes.

This iconic route is one of the most popular ways to reach the summit from the east side, located within the White Mountain National Forest. While the summit can offer expansive views, be prepared for it to be frequently shrouded in fog and clouds. The dramatic changes in terrain and climate make this a notable experience for those seeking a true mountain challenge.

Embark on the challenging Mount Tom, Field, Willey, and Avalon Loop, a difficult 7.8 miles (12.5 km) hike that typically takes 5 hours and 54 minutes. You will ascend a significant 3077 feet (938 metres) through varied terrain, typical of the White Mountains, featuring rocky and rooty sections. While Mount Tom and Mount Field offer mostly wooded summits, the highlight is Mount Avalon, which rewards your effort with exceptional panoramic views of Crawford Notch and Mount Washington. Along the lower Avalon Trail, you can also discover the beauty of Beecher Cascade and Pearl Cascade, adding visual interest to your journey.

The trailhead for this loop is easily accessible from either the Crawford Notch Visitor Center or Crawford Depot, offering convenient starting points. This difficult route is viable year-round, but be aware that conditions change significantly with the seasons. If you plan to hike during winter months, you should be prepared for potentially icy sections. Make sure to bring appropriate gear such as microspikes or snowshoes to ensure your safety and enjoyment on the trail.

This loop is situated within Crawford Notch State Park, a region known for its rugged beauty and diverse landscapes. The path between Field and Willey guides you through a dense, scenic forest, showcasing the natural environment of the White Mountains. The varied terrain and multiple summit experiences make this a notable and rewarding hike for experienced adventurers seeking a comprehensive tour of the area's peaks and waterfalls.

Embark on a moderate hiking adventure that combines lakeside tranquility with dramatic mountain views. This 5.4-mile (8.6 km) route, with an elevation gain of 1100 feet (335 metres), takes you past Echo Lake, up to Cathedral Ledge, and through the scenic Diana's Baths. You can expect to complete this diverse journey in about 2 hours and 47 minutes, experiencing varied terrain and rewarding vistas throughout.

When planning your visit, be aware that parking can be challenging, especially at Diana's Baths during peak summer days, and a daily parking fee is required there. If you hike in winter, the trail to Diana's Baths can become very icy, so microspikes are highly recommended for your safety. An auto road also provides an alternative way to reach the summit of Cathedral Ledge if you prefer to drive up for the views.

This route offers a unique blend of natural features, from the serene waters of Echo Lake to the imposing granite faces of Cathedral Ledge and Whitehorse Ledge. From the top of Cathedral Ledge, you will find expansive views across the Saco River Valley, looking down at Echo Lake and out to the distant White Mountains. Further along, Diana's Baths captivates with its series of cascading waterfalls and natural pools nestled within a beautiful wooded area.