Beautiful at any time of year, the White Mountains area is notorious for outdoor activities visitors can engage in, but few things beat the gorgeous White Mountains hiking you can chase in the spring and summer seasons. Crisp mornings thaw into warm afternoons, and there’s no better way to enjoy them than by hitting the many trails this pocket of the country has to offer.
A long time popular spot for vacationers from all over, Jackson, NH plays host to many beautiful attractions– from covered bridges to Mount Washington itself to a whole system of hiking trails you won’t want to skip over during your stay. When it comes to White Mountains hiking, there are a variety of trails for hikers of all levels, and here of some of our very favorites, especially during the spring and summer months.
Franconia Notch State Park
For visitors who are short on time or on an abbreviated trip, we can’t recommend Franconia Notch State Park enough. Any hikes within the park are sure to be a delight, and you will also find plenty of bike paths, campgrounds, and other fun activities to explore.
Artists Bluff Trail
Located on Bald Mountain, this generally easy, 1.5-mile hike, is accessible to most ability levels, and is particularly beautiful during the spring and summer. On Artists Bluff Trail, you’ll enjoy beautiful views of Franconia Notch, and Echo Lake, as well as gorgeous paths dotted with colorful wildflowers, and local flora and fauna that adds to the appeal.
Basin Cascade Trail
Basin Cascade is a moderate, 2.6-mile out and back trail beginning at the popular Basin in Franconia Notch State Park. The trail continues alongside the beautiful Cascade Brooks, so you can enjoy many pools and waterfalls during your trek. If the weather is right, take a dip or wiggle your toes in some crisp spring water while you’re at it.
Bridal Veil Falls
The hike to beautiful Bridal Veil Falls is a lovely one any time of year, but we think it’s at its best during the warmer seasons. One of many trails in the area for the waterfall chasers out there, this is one of the most popular for a reason. This falls is certainly worth the walk, and is actually the most photographed waterfall in all of the White Mountain National Forest. Go see it for yourself!
Flume Gorge
Trek through an incredible natural gorge on the Flume Gorge trail, boasting an easy 2-mile trip. This hike is also located within Franconia Notch State Park, and you’ll be amazed by the beauty of granite walls rising up to 90 feet in the air, which are only 20 feet apart at their widest points. Take in the sights of Table Rock, Avalanche Falls, Liberty Gorge, Flume Covered Bridge, and Sentinel Pine Bridge and Pool.
Stay with us at Christmas Farm Inn
If you’re planning your White Mountains hiking excursion, be sure to check out the Christmas Farm Inn for all your lodging needs. Our charming inn features an on-site restaurant and bar, Aveda spa, and many other amenities to ensure you have the best experience Jackson, New Hampshire has to offer. Ask our helpful staff for more information about these incredible hiking opportunities, and other fun attractions to check out while you’re visiting.