Overview. Sometimes you hike a peak that’s completely socked in and that was the case here. While there were zero views at the summit, this hike had the widest variety of mushrooms that I can remember, and a large black bear made an appearance on the way down (no pictures because reaching for a camera instead of bear spray is begging for trouble). And, if you like a physical hike, this is a steady, unrelenting climb.

Seriously though, I would normally have opted for a waterfall hike or something with a view below the clouds (Mt. Willard, perhaps), but my son was on a quest to summit the 67 4,000-footers of New England, and this was on that list. So, while the views were zero, we made the most of it including a funny random hiker caption below:-)

Route Type | Out and Back
Total Distance | 4.6 miles
Elevation Gain | 2,155 feet
Overall Difficulty | Strenuous

GPS Waypoints
Trailhead | 43.966594, -71.526933
Tecumseh-Sosman Trail Junction | 43.963864, -71.557964
Summit | 43.966544, -71.556544
National Geographic White Mountain National Forest Trail Map Pack

Parking. Ample parking is available at the upper lots of Waterville Valley Resort. Be sure to observe the one way traffic pattern when departing.

Trail Navigation. This trail is well marked and hard to lose. Follow the yellow blazes all the way to the top. Continue on Tecumseh Trail at the Sosman Trail junction. When you reach the summit loop, it’s hiker’s choice to go left (blue blazes) or right (yellow blazes), as each route takes you to the summit. Note that spurs to views on the ski trails are available en route as well. This is a rocky, steady elevation gainer, so be ready to sweat.

HIKER NOTE - Sunrise. With east-southeast facing views and rocky, but not terribly technical terrain, this would be a nice early morning hike to reach a summit sunrise.

HIKER NOTE - Wintertime. If you’re skiing at Waterville Valley Resort, Sosman Trail from the top of the chairlift can be hiked along the ridge to reach the summit for some views without all the labor.

CAUTION - High Peak Weather. The Whites are notoriously unpredictable and real feel temps can drop 40 degrees or more from trailhead to summit. Be prepared by carrying a wind jacket, beanie, gloves, and extra layer(s) - even in summertime.

CAUTION - Be Bear Aware. Black bear are plentiful in the region. Know Before You Go => US Forest Service Black Bear Safety Tips

CAUTION - Moose. Be aware and never approach moose. Leave a wide berth and turn back if needed.

Funny Random Hiker Caption: