Mt. Tecumseh (4,003'/3,995') is home to the Waterville Valley Ski Area. The hiking trail parallels the ski runs as it climbs the mountain. It leaves the Waterville Valley Ski Area and crosses Tecumseh Brook twice before reaching a viewpoint at a ski run at 1.2 miles. From the viewpoint, the trail climbs up rock steps and steep slopes to the summit.
2.2 miles from the parking lot, the Sosman Trail diverges left to the Sosman Bench which overlooks Waterville Valley and then reaches the summit of White Peak and the top of the ski area where there is a scenic view.
From the intersection with the Sosman Trail, the Tecumseh Trail continues to the true summit of Mt. Tecumseh. There are two options for reaching the summit, one easier and one more difficult.
From the Tripoli Road trailhead, the trail climbs moderately and then steeply up the north side of Mt. Tecumseh. There is a spur trail to a viewpoint before the trail reaches the summit.
Interesting note: Mt. Tecumseh stayed on the official 4000-footer list, despite being measured at 3,995' in 2019.
Before you hike, know the hiker responsibility code and be prepared:
Visit the hikeSafe website to learn more!
For more information, visit the White Mountain National Forest hiking page, or the Waterville Valley Athletic & Improvement Association website, or contact:
Waterville Valley Athletic & Improvement AssociationMt. Tecumseh can be accessed by two trailheads.
Ski Area Parking
The trail begins from the north side of the Waterville Valley Ski Area parking lot. From Exit 28 on I-93, head north on NH-49 for 10.2 miles then turn left on Tripoli Road. Follow signs for the Waterville Valley Ski Area. At the "Y", bear left on the ski area road. Turn right at the top Welcome sign for the ski area and look for the hiking trail sign on the right opposite the uppermost parking lot. If you get to the lodge drop-off area, you've gone too far.
Tripoli Road Parking
The trail can also be accessed from a parking area off of Tripoli Road 4.5 miles past the turn off for the ski area. The parking area is on the left.
From Exit 31 on I-93, the Tecumseh Mountain trailhead is 5.4 miles east on Tripoli Road. Turn right into the parking area.
Please note that Tripoli Road is closed to vehicles in winter west of West Branch Road. It is open for skiing, snowshoeing and snowmobiling.
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