Mount Willard, elevation 2,865 feet (873 m), is a mountain located in Carroll County, New Hampshire, in the center of Crawford Notch. Its summit provides excellent views, and it is accessible by the Mount Willard Trail.
This is a short hike up to the summit of Mount Willard, which overlooks the beautiful Crawford Notch.
This hike begins at the trailhead behind Crawford Depot. The first 1/4 mile of the trail is relatively level. You will cross two small streams before the trail begins to steepen. For much of the trek up to the top of the mountain you will be following an abandoned carriage road. Along the side of the trail you will come across a small waterfall that makes for a good photo opportunity. The most rewarding part of this hike is, of course, the summit. The view from the top of Mt Willard is one of the best in the White Mountains. On the right you will see Mt Willey (4284') and on the left you will see Mt Webster (3910'). Between the two is the deep glacial gorge that is the Crawford Notch. This panoramic scene is one you will never forget.
Pack List: â–¡Water â–¡Snacks â–¡Hiking Boots/sneakers. (Rocky terrain, which, in wet conditions will be...
   Read moreRelatively easy, short hike compared to the far more arduous and lengthy hikes on the nearby Presidential Traverse. An excellent trail to take as a warm-up for more difficult hikes or with kids. Slightly rocky, with clear, well-marked trails. There are a couple very small stream crossings before the path ascends the mountain. Under 1000' of elevation gain. Just over 3.2 miles out and back (all uphill to the overlook). No man-made stairways, boardwalks, observation decks, etc. Ends at a near-vertical drop off. AMAZING views from the top of the trail. The trailhead is located near the parking area at The Highland Center at Crawford Notch S.P. Highly recommended for all able-bodied hikers visiting the...
   Read moreWow - This was a tough hike for our family, but it was my first mountain hike as an adult and I’m so happy we were able to make it! The last two times we tried to hike mountains - I had to turn around before ever making it to the beautiful views! And boy am I happy I made this one! The views were great, and being up there on top of the cliffs after a long hard workout was just invigorating enough to make it back down!
It being our first mountain hike we learned that we didn’t bring any of the right things - including enough water and no snacks seriously don’t do this. We regretted all of our choices. Except the hike itself, we didn’t...
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