Summary

Open ledges on its two summit knobs provide completely different panoramas! We will hike the Mt. Cube Trail [Appalachian Trail] to the summit of Mt. Cube, elevation 2,909 feet. On the south [main summit] we look south to the massive Smarts Mountain and west across the Connecticut River valley to Vermont and the Green Mountains. The northeast ledges look down on the Baker Ponds and out to Moosilauke, Carr and other western mountain peaks.

At less than 3000 feet, Mt Cube is one of those Western NH Mountains you forget about unless you try it. It has magnificent views to the North and East from its rocky summit. We will hike a portion of the Appalachian Trail heading South on the Mount Cube Trail (7.4 miles and 2300 ft elevation gain).

The Trail was re-designed by the Dartmouth Outing Club in the late 80's and it was significantly improved. We will be following the traditional "white blazed" trail (AT) across several brook crossings, connecting with logging roads as it proceeds along switchbacks to the summit. We will ascend both the North and South peaks to take advantage of the views.

Please make sure to bring appropriate winter gear. NO COTTON.

Trail Specifics:

• Roundtrip Length - 7.4 Miles

• Elevation Gain - 2300 Feet

• Expected Time - 4.5 to 5 hours

Après Hiking Dinner:  Everyone is welcome to join us back at our house in Waterville Valley to relax beside our fireplace views of the Sandwich Mountain/Mad River [BYOB and bring snacks] followed by one of Jon's delicious dinners. We ask $10 per person to help pay for our food costs. Showers are available so bring a change of clothing to make your visit with us more comfortable.

Lodging Option: Bunk beds are available at our house [with Wi Fi] near Waterville Valley, NH for Friday and/or Saturday night. It’s $25 for Friday night and $35 for Saturday that includes dinner. Coffee/bagels each morning and linen/blankets/towels are provided. Space is limited so email ASAP to reserve a bunk!

Directions To Trailhead Parking Lot

I-93 Exit 26
NH-25 west [for 15.7 miles]
NH-25A west [for 4.6 miles]
Parking at trailhead along left side of road, just after small bridge over Pond Brook. Trailhead on same side as parking, marked by Dartmouth Outing Club sign. Note that there's a hiker sign on right before the bridge and old logging road on left after the bridge that looks like the trail, but it's not. Trailhead is a little farther down the road, at end of parking area if coming from I-93 direction. We will be driving a blue Toyota Tacoma truck.