IMPORTANT NOTES - Private Land, Youth Camp, Right of Way. The trail is privately owned and maintained by Camp Walt Whitman. Avoid visiting in summertime when camp is in session. The trail is publicly accessible thanks to a right of way granted to the state of New Hampshire and access can be lost if trail users become problematic. Leave no trace. We had a long-time Camp Walt Whitman supporter plan and guide our hike.

Overview. This is an off the beaten path peak just west of White Mountain National Forest with nice views of Lakes Armington and Tarleton down below and Mt. Mousilauke in the distance. The trail is well maintained with a short scramble and has a flat-ish section midway up the mountain to provide a little ease. Though a short hike, it is plenty steep at the outset and below the summit.

Route Type | Out and Back
Total Distance | 4.18 miles
Elevation Gain | 1,440 feet
Physical Demand | Strenuous with Class 2/3 Scramble
Navigational Skill | Beginner

GPS Waypoints
Camp Entrance | 43.947652, -71.966835
Trailhead | 43.951405, -71.973316
Summit | 43.959242, -71.994814
no land manager maps have been published

Parking. Roadside parking is available outside of Camp Walt Whitman along the road. Do NOT park at the camp. If hiking when camp is in session, you will be met by security and required to sign in before heading to the trailhead.

Trail Navigation. The trail is well maintained and easy to navigate once you reach the trailhead. From the road, check in with security and follow the road into camp and continue toward the lake. Pass the lake, and the trailhead will appear shortly thereafter on your left. Use the link above for navigation using Google Maps or copy and paste the trailhead coordinates into your map app. The trail is relatively steep in the opening section, then flattens for a bit, and finishes with another steep section to the summit. The short scramble is best negotiated with a zig zag path that will become obvious when you reach it. When you’ve had your fill of views at the top, descend and take care on the technical part of the downclimb.

HIKER NOTE - Geology. There is a nice variety of rock displayed on this trail. I’m not a geologist, but the layering in the granite was surprising compared to other trails I’ve traveled in the region. If anyone knows more about the geology displayed here, drop me an email.

HIKER NOTE - Outstanding Camp. We had a number of campers come up and ask if we’d hiked Piermont, where we’re from, if we were former Walt Whitman campers, etc. These kids were extremely well socialized, and that might be because there are no cell phones at camp, and it lasts for seven or eight weeks. It was refreshing to meet young people that could actually have a conversation. Am I showing my age? Don’t answer that.

CAUTION - Cliffs. Long falls from high places can happen here. Be smart and stay safe on the clifftops.

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.