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A short but steep trail leading to the summit of a NH 4,000 foot peak.


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Map Key

5.2

Miles

8.4

KM

Point to Point

3,988' 1,215 m

High

1,836' 560 m

Low

2,372' 723 m

Up

2,268' 691 m

Down

17%

Avg Grade (10°)

41%

Max Grade (22°)

Dogs Unknown

Features Fall Colors · Views

Family Friendly A short route without any difficult or exposed sections makes this a great route for the whole family.

Description

The trail from the Waterville Valley parking lot to Mt. Tecumseh is one of the easiest 4000 footer routes in the White Mountains. While short, it is a sustained climb and will give your legs a workout.

Starting in the parking lot, the trail skirts the edge of the ski area with a couple of minor water crossings. The first view looks down the ski slope across Waterville Valley. This is the beginning of the steep ascent. After this point the trail climbs steadily up an unending series of stone steps. As you near the summit the trail actually loops around it, so if you miss the first cutoff, you'll find that you've continued on past the summit and will be approaching it from the North.

The trail continues to the north west from the summit of Mt. Tecumseh, and grades are slightly steeper on this side of the peak. The overall distance will be shorter, but be prepared for a few difficult sections. Poles might be helpful though this portion, but aren't required. The trail eventually ends at Tripoli Road, so you'll want to either arrange for a shuttle, or you'll have to climb the peak all over again to get back to your vehicle.

I've never explored this trail during the ski season, but I would expect parking at Waterville Valley to be a problem then. Off-season, you'll have an empty parking lot. The trail would be navigable for one with snowshoes, and would make for a fun winter adventure.

Contacts

Shared By:

Randy Hill

Trail Ratings

  4.0 from 21 votes

#1113

Overall
  4.0 from 21 votes
5 Star
29%
4 Star
48%
3 Star
24%
2 Star
0%
1 Star
0%
Trail Rankings

#33

in New Hampshire

#1,113

Overall
9 Views Last Month
4,821 Since May 24, 2016
Intermediate/Difficult Intermediate/Difficult

0%
4%
46%
21%
29%
0%

Photos

Viewpoint at the Waterville Valley Ski Trails
Aug 19, 2016 near Watervi…, NH
Sun lit leaves in the fall make this a fantastic fall trail.
Nov 24, 2016 near Watervi…, NH
A section with considerable tree roots
Aug 19, 2016 near Watervi…, NH
Summit View - Mount Tecumseh
Aug 19, 2016 near Watervi…, NH
Two options to reach the summit, both of which have merits.
Aug 19, 2016 near Watervi…, NH
Some of the many stone stairs.
Dec 27, 2020 near Watervi…, NH

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