Grafton Loop Trail Hike Part 1: Eastern Section
With all the great hiking in Maine, the Grafton Loop Trail (MATC trail map link) is a rarity for the state: a multi-day backpacking loop on the outskirts of the White Mountains. The eastern side of Route 26 is the longer (21.1 miles) and more difficult section.
Hike Katahdin via the Helon Taylor Trail
The Helon Taylor Trail may be the most direct route to Katahdin’s Knife Edge, but this is no ho-hum commuter hike. If you’re planning to hike it, get ready to be left breathless.
Winter Hike Saddleback Mountain and The Horn
Hikers are able to reach the Saddleback Mountain summit, elevation 4,120 feet, in winter via the Saddleback Maine ski resort. Continue along the Appalachian Trail to The Horn, 4,041 feet, for a challenging 7-mile hike.
Hike North Twin & South Twin Mountains Via the North Twin Trail
A day hike of North and South Twin Mountain via the North Twin Trail and the North Twin Spur provides a double dip on the White Mountain Four Thousand Footers list with some of the best views in all of New Hampshire. On the lengthy side for a day hike, this adventure has a good mix of challenging and easy going terrain. The most notable obstacle is the triple crossing of Little River, which can be dangerous when the water is running high. So, naturally, we gave it a go in mid-May.
Winter Hike Mt. Madison & Mt. Adams Via the Valley Way Trail
Valley Way is the access route to Mt. Madison and Mt. Adams most travelled by, and for winter hiking that makes all the difference. The easiest and most direct route to Madison Hut, hikers come one and all for day hikes to the aforementioned summits, overnights at the Valley Way Campsite or above treeline (winter only), to venture into the Great Gulf for ice climbing, or to begin treks across the Presidential Range.
Winter Hike Baldpate Mountain Via the Appalachian Trail in Grafton Notch, Maine
The Appalachian Trail’s northbound ascent of Baldpate Mountain from Grafton Notch is a rocky, bruising trail in the summer that crushes the hopes of thru hikers looking for an easy stretch after the rigorous Mahoosuc Range. Add snow and this hike transforms into a backcountry winter wonderland where you’re more likely to encounter a moose than a fellow hiker.