Pets allowed
Allowed
Elevation Gain
900.00 ft (274.32 m)
Trail type
There-and-back
Distance
3.20 mi (5.15 km)
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

An easy hike up Mount Willard offers expansive views of Crawford Notch State Park in the White Mountains. Climbing 900 feet in elevation, this hike brings you through tree covered, corridor-like trails leading to a wide open summit. This is a great hike for beginners, dogs, and anyone looking for a great hike-to-view ratio. From the summit you can look out at Mount Jackson, Mount Willey,  Mount Eisenhower, Mount Webster, and on a clear day, Mount Washington can be seen in the distance.  

The hike starts out with a fairly flat grade and crosses two streams in the first quarter mile. The trail bends to the right and becomes gradually steeper for the next mile until leveling out near the summit. There are no open views until you pop out of the trees at the very end onto the rocky, open ledges of Willard Mountain.

Willard Mountain is a very popular trail year round. In winter, micro spikes are suggested for added traction, and snowshoes are not needed unless you are hiking directly after a snowfall. 

If you happen to hike this trail on a quiet day, you may find yourself being followed by a grey jay.  These birds are known for stealing snacks from hikers!  In winter, snowshoe hare footprints can often be seen in the snow. 

Despite being lower in elevation in comparison to its neighboring peaks, Mount Willard is an unforgettable hike in the White Mountains.

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Winter
Spring
Summer
Fall

Congestion

Moderate

Parking Pass

Not Required

Pros

Expansive views. Gradual hike. Great terrain.

Cons

Big crowds.

Trailhead Elevation

1,900.00 ft (579.12 m)

Features

Big vistas
Geologically significant

Location

Nearby Lodging + Camping

Comments

03/19/2019
Packed snow trail. Microspikes are recommended! Watch out for deep post holes on the sides. Very easy to follow and great views of Crawford Notch on a clear day.
12/20/2018
Beautiful, easy winter hike. Not much experience needed, but prepare for snow! Incredible views at the top, and the drive to the mountain is scenic through the White Mountains of NH.
01/13/2013
This was one of my first winter hikes; a great introduction. The trail is much less crowded in the winter. Also...great place to get engaged!!
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