Hooksett Pinnacle

Length: 0.8 miles out-and-back

Difficulty (click for info): Beginner

Elevation Gain: 200'

Rating (click for info): 4/10

Elevation: 485'

Prominence: 220'

Driving Directions:
Trailhead and parking area are on Pinnacle Street in Hooksett, NH. From Rt. 93, take exit 11 to Hackett Hill Road. Turn left and drive 0.3 miles to Rt. 3A. Turn left again and go 0.5 miles, then turn left onto Pinnacle Street. The parking area is 0.1 miles up Pinnacle Street, signed as "Pinnacle Park".

About the Hike:
The small but very pointed Hooksett Pinnacle has directional views over the town of Hooksett and the Merrimack River. The trail begins at the recently-created Pinnacle Park. Starting at a park sign on the right side of the parking area, follow the path through a grassy area and into the woods. In 0.1 miles, turn left at a "Summit" sign. The main trail soon ascends a steep pitch, while Switchback Trail turns right at the base and rejoins at the top. At an unsigned four-way junction (with the top of Switchback Trail on the right), turn left to stay on the main trail while a more gradual alternative route continues straight. The alternative route can be used as a loop descent. The main trail climbs moderately for 0.1 miles, then joins the alternative route just below the summit. Here, the sharp top of the pinnacle is seen ahead. The trail, now a much wider path, circles around the right side of the summit and ascends from the back.

The view is short-range, overlooking the town of Hooksett and the Merrimack River, and is a fine reward for the minimal effort required. Exploration of the small summit will lead to discovery of a few more views. For a loop descent, bear left onto the alternative route where the main trail narrows and goes right (this turn can be hard to see, so following the alternative route on the way down is easier anyway). In 0.1 miles, reach a gate and turn right. You will soon be back at the four-way junction.

Printable directions page