The best walks and hikes in Grafton Notch State Park

Yes, there are several shorter walks perfect for families. A great option is the Moose Cave loop, a gentle 0.6 km trail that leads to a 45-foot-deep canyon where a brook disappears into a granite cave. It's an interesting geological feature that's easily accessible.

Many of the park's most impressive waterfalls, like Screw Auger Falls and Mother Walker Falls, are accessible via very short walks from pull-offs along the Grafton Notch Scenic Byway (Route 26). You don't need a long hike to see them, making them great additions to any visit.

Yes, dogs are generally permitted on trails in Grafton Notch State Park, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. Be aware that some trails, like the Eyebrow Loop, involve very steep sections with ladders and cables, which may be unsuitable for most dogs.

The park is known for its demanding terrain. For a significant challenge, consider the Old Speck Mountain via Eyebrow Trail. This route includes a very steep ascent with steel rungs and cables before reaching the summit of Maine's fourth-highest peak. The park also contains the Mahoosuc Notch, famously known as the most difficult mile of the entire Appalachian Trail.

Absolutely. For a rewarding hike that isn't extremely strenuous, the Baldpate Mountain via Appalachian Trail is an excellent choice. This 11.7 km trail offers stunning views from the open, alpine-like summit of Baldpate's West Peak.

The most popular seasons for hiking are summer and fall. Summer offers pleasant weather, while autumn provides spectacular fall foliage, especially from open summits like Baldpate Mountain. Winter is also an option for experienced hikers prepared with snowshoes or skis, as the park becomes a snowy landscape.

Yes, a 12-mile stretch of the Appalachian Trail (AT) runs through Grafton Notch State Park. This section is considered one of the most rugged and challenging parts of the entire AT. You can experience a portion of it on several routes, including the hike to Baldpate Mountain.

Yes, the park has some excellent loop trails. The Table Rock Trail & Appalachian Trail loop is a popular, albeit challenging, 3.6 km circuit. It involves a steep climb to the impressive Table Rock viewpoint and then descends via a section of the Appalachian Trail.

Grafton Notch is a rugged, remote park. Cell service is unreliable or non-existent in most areas, so it's essential to download maps for offline use and inform someone of your plans. Trails can be steep and rocky. There are parking areas at major trailheads and attractions, but they can fill up on busy days. Always carry sufficient water and be prepared for changing weather conditions.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community. Reviewers frequently praise the park's dramatic, glacier-carved landscapes, challenging climbs, and the rewarding panoramic views from summits like Old Speck and Table Rock. The unique geological features, such as Moose Cave and Screw Auger Falls, are also popular highlights.

Yes, winter hiking is possible for those with the right experience and gear. The park's trails are not maintained for winter use, so you'll need snowshoes or microspikes. The landscape is beautiful under a blanket of snow, but be prepared for cold, icy, and challenging conditions. Always check avalanche forecasts and trail conditions before you go.

There are several parking lots located along Route 26 (the Grafton Notch Scenic Byway) that provide access to the main trailheads. You'll find designated parking for popular hikes like Old Speck, Table Rock, and Baldpate Mountain, as well as for attractions like Screw Auger Falls and Moose Cave. These lots can be busy, especially on weekends.