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Hike to the Summit of Mount Monadnock

Jaffrey, New Hampshire

4.4/5
based on 13 reviews

Details

Distance

4.5 miles

Elevation Gain

1876 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Jonathan Elsner

Summit the most prominent mountain peak in southern New Hampshire. Monadnock is said to be the world's third most climbed mountain. Enjoy panoramic views of Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Vermont.

Monadnock State Park is located in and around the 3,165-ft. Mount Monadnock. Mount Monadnock is criss-crossed by many miles of well-maintained hiking trails. The popular White Dot Trail (2.2 miles) is the shortest but steepest ascent to summit, accessible from the Monadnock State Park headquarters on the southeast side of the mountain.

Another popular option is the White Arrow Trail (2.3 miles), considered the easiest ascent, via the Old Toll Road Trailhead on the south side of the mountain. The climb up to the summit requires some climbing on slippery and steep granite surfaces, but the way is clearly marked.

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Features

Camping
Photography
Snowshoeing
Hiking
Bathrooms
Easy Parking
Forest
Lake
Picnic Area
Scenic

Hike to the Summit of Mount Monadnock Reviews

Followed the white arrow trail- even though it is considered the easiest way up the mountain there is still a decent amount of elevation gain with scrambling necessary. Parts of the hike were wet and required scrambling so make sure your shoes have good treads. Hiking poles can be helpful for the elevation. Beautiful views at the top! Pack an extra layer and a snack for the top!

Today’s hike started with small ice patches that soon turned into mostly iced rocks. Then as temps warmed, a wet film formed over the ice. Making a difficult hike even more so. Winter climbs on white dot are not for newbies but worth the effort.

This was a challenging hike with lots of rock hopping. My legs were feeling it afterward, but oh my goodness, the views were incredible!!

Beautiful hike! Nothing moderate about this trail! It was hard and kicked my ass!! But, with my 7 year old grandson, my son, and my son in law, we conquered this! Rock scrambles...lots and lots of rock scrambling! Go at your own pace and bring lots of water and enjoy! The best part....only saw a handful of people on this trail.

This hike is a very steep climb through the woods most of the way up but the views are amazing. I completed the hike in May and would definitely do it again. Definitely keep climbing to the very top once you reach the first opening it is 100% worth it!

I've hiked this mountain to the summit a couple times. Each time, I've had a really positive experience and have seen some amazing views. This mountain was one that sparked my passion for hiking and would recommend to anyone!! Ps. A little tip would to be not to hike this mountain in early spring (rookie mistake) unless you're properly equipped. I hiked in a pair of my usual sneakers (they were soaked) and trugged/ boot skiied down the whole mountain. While it wasn't the best choice, it made for a great experience!!

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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