Please note: This posting describes the trails that originate on the west side of Mt. Cardigan in Cardigan Mountain State Park. These trails connect to trails on the north, east and south side of the mountain. Junctions are noted with landmark icons. Specific postings for trails originating on the other sides of the mountain will be added to the site as soon as possible.
With multiple 360 degree views from a series of open and rocky summits, Cardigan Mountain and its associated ridge is a go-to hike in central New Hampshire. Cardigan Mountain State Park provides access to the summit ridge from the west side of the mountain. Multiple loop options are available allowing for many types of adventures depending on your goals and fitness level.
Although there is plenty of elevation change in a short distance, the trails on the west side of Mt. Cardigan are generally shorter and less steep than those on the east side. From the State Park parking lot, the West Ridge Trail climbs toward the summit of Mt. Cardigan. Less than a half mile in, the South Ridge Trail diverges to climb to Rimrock and South Peak. Around the summit, a number of trails connect and care should be taken to follow your intended trail. The Skyland Trail heads south from Rimrock to Mt. Gilman (and beyond), while the Mowglis Trail heads north from the summit of Mt. Cardigan and passes a number of interesting geological features. The Orange Cove Trail connects New Colony Road to the Mowglis Trail. It follows an old logging road that has been washed out in a number of places. Please note that there is very limited parking at the beginning of this trail.
The trails in Cardigan Mountain State Park are maintained by volunteers with the Cardigan Highlanders. To learn more about the trails or how to volunteer, contact:
Primary parking for the State Park is located on Cardigan Mountain Road in Orange, New Hampshire.
From the west (Lebanon area) head east on US-4. In Canaan, turn left onto NH-118 then right onto Cardigan Mountain Road. Follow Cardigan Mountain Road to its end at the parking lot.
From the south (Concord area) head north on US-4. After Danbury, turn right onto Turnpike Road then right again onto Wild Meadow Road. After almost a mile, turn left onto Gifford Hill, which turns into Brock Hill Road. At the park entrance, turn right on Cardigan Mountain Road and follow it to its end at the parking lot.
There is limited roadside parking where the New Colony Road ends and turns into the Orange Cove Trail. Please do not block the gate at this location.
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