The extensive network of trails maintained by the Randolph Mountain Club on the northern slopes of Mt. Adams offer a near infinite array of routes to the summit. With winding low-elevation trails and steep summit climbs, numerous waterfalls, glacial features, and hiker shelters, the trails on Mt. Adams present many exciting options for hikers of all interests and abilities.
PLEASE NOTE: The trails up Mount Adams are strenuous, and weather on the exposed alpine summit can be harsh and unpredictable.
Airline Trail: Airline is the most direct- and exposed- route up Mount Adams, climbing 3.8 miles and 4,500' to the summit. From the Appalachia Trailhead, Airline climbs gradually for the first mile before steepening to gain Durand Ridge. After 2.8 miles and 3,000 feet of climbing, the trail breaks above treeline to, weather permitting, overlook King Ravine. The trail continues along the edge of the Ravine up towards the headwall for another 0.4 miles before meeting the Airline Cutoff Trail. Here, hikers have the option of ducking into the trees on the more protected cutoff trail to reach Madison Spring Hut in a short 0.2 miles, or continuing up Airline for Mt. Adams. Airline continues another 0.2 miles uphill, reaching the Gulfside Trail / Appalachian Trail above the dramatic headwall of King Ravine. Airline crosses the Gulfside Trail and continues the final 0.4 miles to the summit of Mt. Adams (5,799'), the second highest peak in the Northeast.
Valley Way Trail: Valley Way is one of the most popular routes to climb Mount Adams, providing a more gradual approach that is better protected from the often harsh weather above treeline. Additionally, Valley Way accesses both the Valley Way Tentsite and Madison Spring Hut, two overnight options for hikers doing multi-day trips. Please visit sites for more information on seasonal closures, capacity, and reservations. From the Appalachia Trailhead, Valley Way climbs gradually for the first 2 miles, winding upslope above Snyder Brook. Along the way, the trail passes numerous scenic waterfalls, including Salroc Fall, Tama Fall, and Salmacis Fall. After passing Salmacis fall, the trail begins to climb more steeply. At 3.0 miles the spur for the Valley Way Tentsite is on the right. Past the tentsite, the trail climbs the final 0.4 miles to the saddle below Mount Madison and Mount Adams, where Madison Spring Hut awaits. For hikers continuing towards the summit of Mount Adams, take the Gulfside Trail / Appalachian Trail 0.3 miles up to the junction with the Airline Trail where the trail rises the final 0.4 miles to the summit of Mt. Adams (5,799').
Lowe's Path: Please Note: Lowe's Store Parking is closed in winter. Lowe's Path climbs 4.1 miles and 4,400' to the summit of Mount Adams. From US Route 2, the path steadily climbs 2.2 miles to the Log Cabin, a self-service hiker shelter managed by the Randolph Mountain Club. Continuing uphill, the trails climbs steeply another 0.6 miles to a scenic viewpoint at the Quay, just below treeline. The Randolph Mountain Club's self-service Gray Knob cabin lies just a few hundred yards off Lowe's Path to the east. Continuing up Lowe's, the trail quickly breaks above treeline and in another 0.75 miles passes over the sub-summit of Adams 4, commonly known as Abigail Adams. In 0.3 miles hikers will reach Thunderstorm Junction and the Guflside Trail / Appalachian Trail. Continue through the junction for Lowe's Path, ascending the final 0.25 miles to the summit of Mount Adams (5,799').
Please note there are many other connecting trails that allow hikers to create unique loops and experiences beyond just those highlighted here. To explore more nearby trails, check out the Related Trails section at the bottom of this page.
Before you hike, know the hiker responsibility code and be prepared:
Visit the hikeSafe website to learn more!
These trails are managed by the White Mountains National Forest and maintained by the Randolph Mountain Club. For more information, contact:
Appalachia Trailhead: From I-93 North, take Exit 35 for US-3 North after passing through Franconia Notch. Head north on US-3 10.5 miles to Twin Mountain, and continue north through town another 2 miles for NH-115 N. Take NH-115 N 9.5 miles to US-2, then turn right/east for Gorham. In 7.1 miles, the Appalachia Trailhead is on your right.
From Gorham, head west on US-2 for 6.7 miles, and the Appalachia Trailhead is on your left.
This trail passes an area containing rare and fragile alpine plants, some of which grow on exposed rocks or in rock crevices. Stay on trails and avoid stepping on plants or disturbing shallow soils. If pets are permitted on this trail or property, please keep them leashed.
Many people choose to hike this trail. For a less busy hike experience, consider visiting midweek, rather than on weekends. Use Trail Finder to identify other nearby trails. If the parking lot is full when you arrive, please choose another trail. Be considerate of your fellow trail enthusiasts - pass at safe distances, and move on from viewpoints if others are waiting.
The White Mountains are beautiful, but they can also be treacherous. Weather can change quickly. Many trails are narrow, steep and rocky. Educate yourself about the challenges you will encounter on the trail you plan to hike. Visit the hikeSafe website to learn more about how to prepare for hiking in the White Mountains.
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