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This is a longer, more gradual ascent of Kearsarge complete with several vistas to make the climb worth your while.


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Map Key

1.5

Miles

2.4

KM

Point to Point

2,897' 883 m

High

1,830' 558 m

Low

1,067' 325 m

Up

0' 0 m

Down

14%

Avg Grade (8°)

31%

Max Grade (17°)

Dogs Leashed

Features Fall Colors · Views

This trail is open mid-May through mid-October. An entrance fee of $4 for adults and $2 for children applies.

Description

The Barlow Trail is the primary SRKG (Sunapee, Ragged, Kearsarge Greenway) trail to the summit. It meanders through hardwood forest on the north side of the mountain before turning hard right after 0.6 mi. and attacking a moderate pitch of rocky terrain and sparse vegetation.

About two thirds of the way to the summit, the trail opens up onto granite slabs, providing for some spectacular views of the surrounding towns and peaks. Just before the trail opens up above tree line, the trail swings to the west where it joins the Winslow Trail for a quick hop, skip and jump to the summit.

Views from the fire tower allow one to see into all three surrounding states on a spectacularly clear day. On an average day, one can easily see the peaks of Southern VT and get great views on Sunapee, Monadnock, Ragged, and the White Mountains.

Any offseason attempts at this trail need to factor in the Winslow State Park Road, which adds another mile to the trail from the gate to the trailhead.

Flora & Fauna

This trail traverses primarily mixed-hardwood forests with the occasional hemlock stand.

Contacts

Shared By:

Chris Jones

Trail Ratings

  4.5 from 2 votes

#9217

Overall
  4.5 from 2 votes
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Trail Rankings

#207

in New Hampshire

#9,217

Overall
5 Views Last Month
575 Since Mar 21, 2017
Intermediate/Difficult Intermediate/Difficult

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Photos

Springtime views are great from the Barlow Trail of Ragged Mountain and Bradley Lake. Proctor Academy is visible as well.
Apr 18, 2017 near Andover, NH
The frosty watch tower atop Kearsarge Mountain.
Feb 8, 2021 near Andover, NH
Bradley Lake from The Barlow Trail.
Aug 3, 2018 near Andover, NH
view from Winslow Trail, Pleasant Lake on right
Aug 3, 2018 near Andover, NH

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Check-Ins

Jun 11, 2023
Rudy P
gradual. good for Alz
Feb 5, 2021
NH Hiker95
A more gradual and scenic route of Kearsarge, with fine views in the final stretch
Aug 4, 2017
Erin Weigler
Apr 16, 2017
Chris Jones
1h 00m
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