Tecumseh Peaks

A moderately difficult hike with multiple viewpoints to the summit of Mt. Tecumseh.
Trail Activity
Hiking Snowshoeing
Length
5.60 miles, Network
Difficulty
Advanced
Town
Waterville Valley (NH)
Surface
Packed Earth/Dirt, Rock/Ledge
Pets
Permitted
Fees
No

Description

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.

Other Information

Before you hike, know the hiker responsibility code and be prepared:

  • With knowledge and gear
  • To leave your plans
  • To stay together
  • To turn back
  • For emergencies
  • To share the hiker code with others.

 Visit the hikeSafe website to learn more!

Trail Manager

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 Association

Waterville Valley Athletic & Improvement Association
PO Box 412
Waterville Valley, NH 03215
wvaiatrails@gmail.com
View website

White Mountain National Forest: Pemigewasset Ranger District

White Mountain National Forest: Pemigewasset Ranger District
71 White Mountain Drive
Campton, NH 03223
Phone: (603) 536-6100
View website

Trail Tips

Plan Ahead and Prepare
Respect trail closures.
Legend
Hide All

Trailhead Information

Mt. 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.

Click on a parking icon to get custom directions
Please Log In or Create Account to add comments.
These awesome businesses support our goal of connecting people to outdoor adventures!
Hang Tight!
Nearby services are loading
No Results
No Services Found
SHARE THIS TRAIL

Add Trail Log

Please wait…
Join In on the Fun!
Log in or create an account below to unlock all the great features of Trail Finder: keep track of trails you want to do, preserve memories of trails you’ve done, earn badges, and more!
Your log in attempt was not successful. Please try again.
    Lost your password? Reset your password
    Don't yet have an account?
    There was an issue with your submission. Please try again.
      * Indicates required field
      Already have an account? Login here
      Enter your username, and we will send you a new, randomly generated password to your email account.
      There was an issue with your submission. Please try again.

        Success! A new password has been emailed to you.

        Log in now

        Please wait…