The 10 Best Hikes in Jackson NH
Jackson is a beautiful mountain town in the White Mountains of New Hampshire that offers year-round activities! It is one of my favorite places to visit in every season.
Although Jackson is a small town, it does not lack things to do and beautiful views. Jackson is home to hiking trails, waterfalls, swimming holes, ski resorts, and more.
Although the area offers many activities, one of the best things to do is to hike in Jackson. Jackson has beautiful and fun hikes for all hiking levels, so it has something for everyone! This guide has everything you need to know about the best hikes in Jackson, New Hampshire, that should be on your bucket list!
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Tips for Hiking in Jackson NH
Hiking in Jackson, New Hampshire, is one of the best ways to experience its beauty. Here are some tips and things to consider when you hike in Jackson:
The trails in Jackson are rugged. They have roots and rocks, making it crucial to wear supportive shoes with traction. Even the easy hikes have obstacles. If you want more information on the trail and its current conditions, you should read recent trail reviews.
The weather in Jackson can change quickly. The White Mountains weather can be unpredictable, and Jackson is no different. It could be a sunny and warm day in the morning and change into a windy and rainy day within a few hours. It is essential to check the weather before starting the hike.
Many trailhead parking lots fill up quickly, especially in the summer and fall. I recommend arriving at the most popular trails early in the morning to secure a parking spot. Some parking lots will fill up before 8:00 AM.
Always remember to leave no trace. It’s crucial to pack out what you pack in and leave no trash. Some spots have trash bins, so you can easily throw your trash away. If they don’t have trash bins, you can throw your trash away at a nearby gas station or convenience store.
Best Time to Hike in Jackson NH
Summer is one of the best times to hike in the White Mountains because the weather is beautiful, and the trails are free of snow. Because the summer has optimal hiking conditions, it is the most popular time to hike, and Jackson will be busy. Although the mountains tend to be cooler than other parts of the state, they can still be hot and humid. You should pack more water and food than you think you need to fuel your body on the hike! Mosquitoes are also annoying in the summer, so you should pack bug spray.
Fall is one of the most beautiful times to hike in Jackson because the fall foliage is stunning! Early fall is the busiest time in the White Mountains, so there will be traffic and crowds. The earlier you start your hike, the better! Winter conditions can begin in late fall, so you should read recent trail reviews so you can pack the appropriate layers and gear.
Winter is a beautiful time to visit Jackson if you are okay with cold weather and snowy conditions. The trails are less crowded because the trail conditions require much more caution and preparation. If you want to hike in the winter, you should make sure to pack the appropriate layers and gear. You should also read recent trail reviews and keep an eye on the weather since it can change quickly.
Spring is a great time to hike in Jackson as everything begins to bloom! However, winter conditions can last through spring, and the snow melt makes the trails muddy. The snow melt also makes it difficult to cross some rivers when the water is high. If you want to hike in the spring, you should read recent trail reviews so you can pack the appropriate gear. Mud season in the mountains makes the trails vulnerable, so please remember to stay on the trail.
What to Pack for Hiking in Jackson NH
Hiking Boots: If you want comfort and support on your trip, hiking boots are the go to.
Hiking Socks: Having moisture-wicking and comfortable hiking socks are just as important for exploring.
Hiking Backpack: You need something to carry all your food, clothes, and anything else you need while adventuring, so having a supportive hiking backpack is crucial.
Hydration Reservoir/Water Bottles: While hiking or just exploring, it is important to have enough water! I always pack a hydration reservoir.
Jackets: The weather is unpredictable, so I always pack a rain jacket and insulated jacket.
Ten Essentials: The Ten Essentials are crucial for hiking!
Microspikes: If you plan on winter hiking, you will need to bring microspikes.
Snowshoes: Also if you hike in the winter, you may need snowshoes.
The 10 Best Hikes in Jackson NH
Iron Mountain
Trail: Iron Mountain Trail
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 5.6 miles
Elevation Gain: 1,900 feet
Iron Mountain is one of the best hikes in Jackson, New Hampshire, and has stunning views from the trailhead. The trailhead is off a pretty bumpy road that can be difficult to drive on, especially when it is muddy.
The trail was also recently redone to help protect the area and keep it in good condition for years of use, so please make sure to stay on the new trail.
Iron Mountain Trail is an easy-to-follow trail that provides stunning views within the first few minutes of hiking before moving into the forest and ascending to Iron Mountain. The ledges on Iron Mountain have beautiful views overlooking the White Mountains, so you will not be disappointed with this hike in Jackson!
Note: The parking lot is very small. If the lot is full, there is a larger parking lot down the road.
North and South Doublehead
Trail: Doublehead Ski Trail
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 4 miles
Elevation Gain: 1,700 feet
North and South Doublehead are on the 52 With a View List, so you know the views are beautiful! They have some of my favorite views in the area.
The trailhead is near downtown Jackson and travels along ski trails, making it perfect for year-round hiking. I recommend hiking the loop counter-clockwise up the Old Path and New Path to South Doublehead before heading to North Doublehead since it is steeper and easier to ascend.
North Doublehead is slightly taller but has less of a view. South Doublehead has a few ledges that provide beautiful views overlooking Mount Washington and the surrounding mountains. The hike to North and South Doublehead is one of the best trails in Jackson, New Hampshire if you are looking for a short but challenging trail!
Carter Dome and Mount Hight
Trail: 19 Mile Brook Trail
Difficulty: Difficult
Length: 10.4 miles
Elevation Gain: 3,500 feet
Carter Dome and Mount Hight are among the tallest mountains in New Hampshire and are great hikes in Jackson, New Hampshire. Although Mount Hight is almost as tall as Carter Dome, it is not on the 48 4,000 Footer List because it does not meet the other requirements. But I will say Mount Hight has some of the most beautiful views in the White Mountains!
The 19 Mile Brook Trail is stunning and brings you to the summit of Mount Hight before arriving at Carter Dome. The trail can be completed as a loop to include the Carter Notch Hut or as an out-and-back.
If you hike it as a loop with the Carter Notch, you can stop by for a snack and potentially meet some AT thru-hikers! If you are looking for one of the best hikes in Jackson, New Hampshire, that will challenge you, Carter Dome and Mount Hight are perfect!
Bonus hike: If you want a longer trail that travels over two other 4,000-footers, you should hike the longer 13-mile loop that includes North and South Carter.
Eagle Mountain
Trail: Eagle Mountain Trail
Difficulty: Easy/Moderate
Length: 1.7 miles
Elevation Gain: 600 feet
Eagle Mountain is a short and sweet hike in Jackson, New Hampshire, overlooking the town and surrounding mountains. The summit is mostly wooded but has a small clearing to enjoy the views.
Although the trail is on the shorter side, it has some steep sections as you approach Eagle Mountain. The trail is also less traveled than other trails in Jackson, so it’s crucial to bring a map to help you stay on the trail. If you are looking for a short and sweet hike in Jackson, Eagle Mountain is for you!
Mount Isolation
Trail: Glen Boulder Trail
Difficulty: Difficult
Length: 12 miles
Elevation Gain: 5,000 feet
Mount Isolation is one of the shorter mountains on the New Hampshire 48 4,000 footer list but has one of the best views. Although there are a few trails that bring you to Mount Isolation, I recommend hiking the Glen Boulder Trail, especially if you are looking for a challenge. Glen Boulder Trail is strenuous but provides stunning views for a few miles once you are above the treeline.
Mount Isolation is near the Presidential Range, so the trail has views of Mount Washington and its neighboring mountains. Although Mount Isolation is a challenging hike in Jackson, New Hampshire, you will not be disappointed with the panoramic views!
Winniweta Falls
Trail: Winniweta Falls Trail
Difficulty: Easy/Moderate
Length: 2 miles
Elevation Gain: 500 feet
Winniweta Falls is a lesser-known trail and waterfall in Jackson, New Hampshire, with many small beautiful waterfalls along the trail. The trail is less traveled than other nearby trails in Jackson and can be hard to follow at points. The trail also requires river crossing at the beginning, which is shin-deep or deeper most of the year. Please use caution if you are crossing it.
Wildcat D
Trail: Wildcat Ridge Trail
Difficulty: Difficult
Length: 3.5 miles
Elevation Gain: 2,200 feet
Wildcat D is one of my favorite hikes near Jackson, New Hampshire because it is a challenging, short hike with beautiful views.
Do not let the mileage fool you! Although the Wildcat Ridge Trail is on the shorter side, the trail is steep and very rocky. There are sections of the Wildcat Ridge Trail with exposed rock and narrow ladders, so it’s not for the faint of heart. The trail is on the Terrifying 25 List, so you know it’s steep!
The Wildcat Ridge Trail brings you to the top of the Wildcat Mountain Ski Resort and over to a lookout tower that provides stunning views of Mountain Washington and the rest of the Presidential Range. Although the trail is strenuous, it is worth it for the panoramic views if you are up for a challenge!
Mountain Pond Trail
Trail: Mountain Pond Trail
Difficulty: Easy
Length: 2.6 miles
Elevation Gain: 80 feet
Mountain Pond Trail is an off-the-beaten-path trail and one of the easiest hikes in Jackson, New Hampshire. Although Mountain Pond Trail is easy, it is still rocky and has stream crossings. The trail loops around Mountain Pond while providing beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. There is also a shelter near the pond, so you can make this an easy backpacking trip!
Glen Ellis Falls
Trail: Glen Ellis Falls Trail
Difficulty: Easy
Length: 0.4 miles
Elevation Gain: 90 feet
NOTE: The Glen Ellis Scenic Area will be closed starting in October 2023 for approximately a year for reconstruction and rehabilitation work. Read more here.
Glen Ellis Falls is right outside Jackson, New Hampshire, and is easily one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the state! It is my favorite waterfall, and I know you will love hiking to it.
The stunning 64-foot waterfall has a well-maintained trail and a set of stairs that brings you to an overlook above the falls and at the base of it. Glen Ellis Ellis is one of the best hikes near Jackson, New Hampshire, especially if you are looking for an easy trail!
Mount Washington
Trail: Jewell Trail
Difficulty: Difficult
Length: 9 miles
Elevation Gain: 4,000 feet
Mount Washington is the tallest mountain in the northeast, standing at 6,288 feet tall, and is one of the best hikes near Jackson, New Hampshire. Many trails lead to Mount Washington, with the easiest being the Jewell Trail. Although it is considered the easiest trail to the summit, it is a strenuous hike. It gains over 4,000 feet in 4.5 miles one way, and it will make you work for the views! Once you reach Mount Washington, you get stunning panoramic views of the White Mountains!
If you are looking for another great trail to Mount Washington, you can hike the Tuckerman Ravine Trail. This trail is shorter than the Jewell but gains more elevation. It is very steep and rocky, so it will make you work hard for the views!
If you do not want to hike, you can also drive or take the scenic train to the summit.
If you are visiting Jackson, New Hampshire, I highly recommend hiking since it is one of the best ways to experience the area’s beauty! This guide has everything you need to know about the best hikes in Jackson, New Hampshire.
Hey, I’m Nichole!
I am the creator behind Nichole the Nomad, the home of my explorations around the world, mountain hikes, and beautiful pictures taken along the way. I have a deep passion for capturing the world in a beautiful light and sharing my experiences.
I created this blog to share my travels, show how beautiful the world is, provide tips and tricks for traveling, and encourage you to explore. Whether you want to travel across the world or explore what’s in your backyard, I hope this blog inspires you to get outside and find your adventure!
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