White Mountain National Forest
800,992 acresMay through October
Complete guide to White Mountain National Forest in New Hampshire. Trail recommendations, campgrounds, permits, Presidential Range, and trip planning resources.
14 min read
The Granite State
New Hampshire
Presidential peaks, AMC huts, and the worst weather on Earth: small state, serious mountains.
1Forest Guide
8Trail Guides
800,992Acres Covered
6,288 ftHighest Peak
New Hampshire at a Glance
Presidential Range
The Presidential Range includes 8 peaks above 4,000 ft named after US presidents, with Mount Washington the crown jewel
AMC Hut System
The Appalachian Mountain Club operates 8 backcountry huts in the White Mountains, offering lodging and meals a day's hike apart
Worst Weather on Earth
Mount Washington held the world wind speed record (231 mph) for 62 years, with winter wind chills dropping below -100°F
4,000-Footer List
New Hampshire has 48 peaks over 4,000 ft. Completing the list is a beloved hiking challenge that takes most people years
Fall Foliage
The White Mountains produce some of the most vivid fall color in North America, drawing millions of visitors each October
Covered Bridges
White Mountain National Forest and surrounding areas have over 50 historic covered bridges, many accessible from trailheads
When to Visit
June through October for most trails. The Presidential Range is hikeable June through September, but conditions above treeline can be dangerous any month. Peak fall foliage runs late September through mid-October.
National Forests in New Hampshire
Trails in New Hampshire
Trip Planning Guides
Did You Know?
1
White Mountain National Forest is the only national forest in New Hampshire, but it attracts over 6 million visitors annually.
2
The Appalachian Trail crosses 161 miles through New Hampshire, including its most rugged and exposed section above treeline.
3
Tuckerman Ravine on Mount Washington is a legendary spring skiing destination, with skiers hiking up to ride steep snow into May and June.
4
The Mount Washington Observatory operates year-round on the summit, enduring conditions comparable to Antarctica.
5
The Old Man of the Mountain, once New Hampshire's state emblem on the quarter, collapsed from Franconia Notch's granite cliff face in 2003.