Recommendations from AMC for Effortless Trails in the Northeastern Region
In this week's Ask AMC column, we're exploring easy hikes suitable for older adults or those seeking a more relaxed hiking experience in the White Mountains and across the Northeast.
Mt. Willard Trail in Crawford Notch, New Hampshire, is a 3.2-mile hike with a gentle elevation gain of 900 feet, taking approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. The trail offers a scenic view at the summit, making it an ideal choice for beginners and dog owners.
Another short and easy hike is Square Ledge in Pinkham Notch, New Hampshire, with a distance of 1.6 miles and an elevation gain of 154 feet, taking around one hour. Square Ledge provides nice views with minimal effort, making it suitable for low-key hikes.
While the White Mountains offer some excellent low-impact hiking options, there were no specific easy hikes listed outside this region in our search results. However, Mt. Willard and Square Ledge are excellent examples of easy hikes in the Northeast.
For those seeking a more challenging hike, the Tuckerman Ravine Trail to Mt. Washington in Pinkham Notch, New Hampshire, is a popular and iconic trail. Although it involves a significant elevation gain of approximately 4,280 feet over 8.2 miles (round trip), the first 2.4 miles are family-friendly. However, the last 1.7 miles are steep, making it less suitable for low-intensity outings.
Other strenuous hikes include the Boott Spur Trail and the Glen Boulder Trail, both offering scenic alpine zones and views of the White Mountain Forest but requiring more fitness and a longer time commitment of 6-8 hours.
For Grandma from Rhode Island and Sandy from Warwick, R.I., seeking easy hikes of 6-8 miles and 3 miles respectively, no specific hikes were mentioned in the White Mountains, but the Narragansett Chapter Chair could be contacted to find a group for a similarly-paced trip.
For those interested in a more immersive hut experience, the Lonesome Lake Hut and the Zealand Falls Hut in the White Mountains offer the full AMC hut experience, including stunning views, home-cooked meals, comfortable bunks, and a friendly Croo.
Remember, easy means something different for everyone, so decide what adventure looks like for you. Happy Trails!
- With the stunning views and minimal effort required, Square Ledge in Pinkham Notch, New Hampshire, offers an excellent example of outdoor-living, making it suitable for those who appreciate home-and-garden-like tranquility in an outdoor setting.
- For those who prefer a more immersive lifestyle experience, both the Lonesome Lake Hut and Zealand Falls Hut in the White Mountains provide a unique opportunity to enjoy home-cooked meals, comfortable accommodations, and breathtaking views, similar to an enjoyable day spent in a well-kept garden.
