Gay Outdoors - Premier Gay and Gay Friendly Men's Outdoor Recreation Club in New England

ACTIVITIES & EVENTS

Mt. Osceola Hike

Hiking - Full Day

DATE: Oct 03, 2026

END DATE: Oct 03, 2026

Event Location: Waterville Valley NH

Trip Leader(s)

dpbyrnes
Ipswich, MA United States

Meeting Time: 8:45 AM

Max # People: 10

Guiding / Event Fee: No, I will not be asking participants for money

Difficulty Level:

Moderate to Strenuous

(Do you qualify to attend with this difficulty rating? Click Here.)

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Summary

I’ve been wanting to do Mount Osceola (one of New Hampshire's great 4000-footers IMHO) all summer and now I am going to be out of town on10/24 so will miss the GO trail maintenance day. So, for others like me schedully challenged, I’m leading this earlier hike. And yes, I know that schedully is not a proper word. :)

https://www.alltrails.com/explore/trail/us/new-hampshire/mount-osceola-summit

This hike is an out-and-back excursion on the Mount Osceola Trail. While still a serious mountain climb, it features a steady, consistent grade and has a large number of switchbacks which is always appreciated. Like most 4000 footers is is rocky and root-heavy and there are a few steep rock sections. But the stunning 180-degree views at the summit slab facing north towards the mountain ranges lining the Kancamagus and the outstanding peak foliage are definitely worth it.

This is a very popular hike and the trailhead parking area fills pretty early so you'll most likely have to park alongside the road which is not an issue. A USFS Parking Day Pass is required at this parking area. A day pass is available at the trailhead for $5.00 at the self-serve kiosk.

Please note that the hike will start PROMPTLY AT 9:00 AM so arrive at 8:45.

Details
What: Mount Osceola
Distance: 6.4 miles out-and-back
Elevation Gain: 2343'
Difficulty:Moderate to Strenuous
Pace: Moderate to fast moderate. Approximately 1.75 -2.0 mph
Estimated Time: 5-6 hours

Is this hike for me?
You should at least be used to moderate hiking and be able to keep a moderate pace. If this is your first 4000-footer than be comfortable walking at least 7 miles on uneven terrain including roots and rocks.

Gear List includes:
--Hiking boots and layered clothing (no cotton)
--2-3 liters of water
--Lunch and snacks to be consumed during our breaks
--Headlamp and fresh batteries (always a good idea) and sunscreen
--Rain gear (just in case)
--Hiking poles if desired

Keep an eye on temps and consider your clothing layers

Directions To Trailhead Parking Lot

I-93 North
Take Exit 28 in NH towards Waterville Valley. Turn RIGHT onto Route 49 East for 10.2 miles
Turn LEFT to the access road for the Waterville Valley Ski Area for 1.3 miles
Turn RIGHT to Tripoli Road [dirt road] and follow for 3.2 miles where it crests at the 2,300-foot pass

About 200 yards beyond, the Mount Osceola Trail enters the woods on the right, where there is parking area. However, you will most likely park alongside the road and short walk to the kiosk where we will meet.