The east coast might not have the same type of summits as out west – thing 4,000ers rather than 14ers – but that doesn’t make reaching the top any less impressive. The time and energy that goes into any hike is something worth celebrating and it’s even more exciting when the views are vast and beautiful. Reaching the top of a 4,000 foot mountain is challenging, but it doesn’t have to be impossible. This great hike in New Hampshire will take you to the top of one of the best in the area – and some think it’s one of the most manageable as well.
Mount Tecumseh is found in New Hampshire’s White Mountain National Forest. And, at 4,003 feet high it only just qualifies as a 4,000er. While it’s one of the smallest of the state’s 48 peaks that are over 4,000 feet, it’s certainly worth hiking for some incredible views and a nice sense of accomplishment.
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There are two different ways to get to the top on the Mt. Tecumseh Trail.
Stephane Rousseau / alltrails.com The Mt. Tecumseh Trail from Waterville Valley Ski Area is shortest, but also more challenging than the one that begins at Tripoli Road. This one is about 2.5 miles with a 2,200 elevation gain, taking anywhere from an hour and a half to over two hours.
This trail is rockier than other other, making it one of those trails you’ll need to be careful on if you’re at all unsteady on your feet.
Nancy S-P / alltrails.com
You’ll start this trail by crossing a brook. After that you’ll be hiking alongside the larger Tecumseh Brook for a little while until you begin going upwards to the summit.
Barry Noonan / alltrails.com
This trail also provides some clearings, one of which provides some great views of the Tripyramids.
Dane Holloway / alltrails.com
You’ll see the brook again and the rocks will begin going vertically, in some places becoming steps.
Bryce Sullivan / alltrails.com
The summit view includes the Waterville Valley and the Sandwich Range Wilderness.
Jeremy Hounshell / alltrails.com
The other route begins at the Tripoli Road trailhead.
Kevin Miller / alltrails.com This route is slightly longer at just over 3 miles and the elevation gain is a bit larger at 2,400 feet. But, the route to the top becomes steeper more gradually and the trail is remarkably less rocky.
You’ll still cross the brook when you begin, but the trail changes from here.
Bryan Riley / alltrails.com
Much of the route is gradual, but the bit just before the summit is a true ledge requiring a bit of effort to maneuver.
Steve Martin / alltrails.com
The views are just as beautiful.
Andrew O’Barton / alltrails.com
And, if you’re an intrepid hiker you can explore this mountain in all weather.
Andrew O’Barton / alltrails.com
But, no matter what your skill level always be sure to tell someone where you’re going or, even better, hike with a pal!
Nolan Neily / alltrails.com You should also always be prepared for all weather to avoid any accidents.
To get to the trail from the Tripoli Road trail head head north on I-93 before taking exit 28 to follow Route 49 east. In about 11 miles you’ll see the turn for Tripoli Road where you’ll make a left. Follow Tripoli Road by staying to the right and go past the Osceola Vista Campground. The parking lot is on the left, about a mile after the campground lot.
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Stephane Rousseau / alltrails.com
The Mt. Tecumseh Trail from Waterville Valley Ski Area is shortest, but also more challenging than the one that begins at Tripoli Road. This one is about 2.5 miles with a 2,200 elevation gain, taking anywhere from an hour and a half to over two hours.
Nancy S-P / alltrails.com
Barry Noonan / alltrails.com
Dane Holloway / alltrails.com
Bryce Sullivan / alltrails.com
Jeremy Hounshell / alltrails.com
Kevin Miller / alltrails.com
This route is slightly longer at just over 3 miles and the elevation gain is a bit larger at 2,400 feet. But, the route to the top becomes steeper more gradually and the trail is remarkably less rocky.
Bryan Riley / alltrails.com
Steve Martin / alltrails.com
Andrew O’Barton / alltrails.com
Nolan Neily / alltrails.com
You should also always be prepared for all weather to avoid any accidents.
To get to the trail from the ski resort follow the directions above, but when you see Tripoli Road stay to the left, then stay right. From here, you’ll follow the resort’s main road to parking lot #1.
Did you know that the oldest hiking trail in America can be found in New Hampshire? Check it out here!
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