Mount Major

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A popular hike to a rocky summit with incredible views over Lake Winnipesaukee.
Trail Activity
Hiking Snowshoeing
Length
4.50 miles, Network
Difficulty
Advanced
Town
Alton (NH)
Surface
Packed Earth/Dirt, Rock/Ledge
Pets
Permitted on leash
Fees
No

Description

With its rocky summit and outstanding views, Mt. Major is one of the most hiked mountains in New Hampshire. There are three trails leading to the summit. The Main Trail, blazed in blue, follows an old logging road before turning sharply left and climbing steeply to the summit. The Mt. Major Brook Trail begins at the junction where the Main Trail turns left. It climbs moderately to the intersection with the Belknap Range Trail. Turning left again here brings you to the summit. The Boulder Loop Trail climbs the south side of the mountain past brooks, boulders and ledges.

Mt. Major is a very popular hiking destination. Always remember to respect the trail and all your fellow hikers. Dogs are allowed at Mt. Major. It is recommended to keep them on leash. Always remember to pick up after them. 

The trails in the posting connect to other trails in the Belknap Range that are not described here. Please take care at all intersections to ensure that you stay on your intended route.

Trail Manager

The lands around Mt. Major are owned by the Society for the Preservation of New Hampshire Forests and the New Hampshire Division of Forests and Lands as well as generous private landowners who allow for recreation use of their lands. For more information, contact:

New Hampshire Division of Forests & Lands
172 Pembroke Road
Concord, NH 03301
Phone: (603) 271-2214
View website
Society for the Protection of New Hampshire Forests
54 Portsmouth Street
Concord, NH 03301
Phone: (603) 224-9945
info@forestsociety.org
View website

Trail Tips

Plan Ahead and Prepare
Make a Plan B before you head out the door. If the parking lot is full when you arrive at the trailhead, go to your second destination.

Trailhead Information

The parking area for Mt. Major is on the west side of NH-11, 9 miles south of Glendale and 4 miles north of Alton Bay.

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