Mt. Pemigewasset

Length: 3.6 miles out-and-back

Difficulty (click for info): Moderate

Elevation Gain: 1250 feet

Rating (click for info): 6/10

Elevation: 2557'

Prominence: 137'

Driving Directions:
Trailhead and parking area are at the Flume Gorge in Lincoln, NH. The Flume Gorge is accessed from exit 34A on Rt. 93. Park on the north (left) side of the parking area to easily access the bike path.

About the Hike:
Mt. Pemigewasset is known for the cliffs below its summit, which, when viewed from the south, form the shape of a Native American's face; therefore, the cliffs, and sometimes the mountain, are more commonly called Indian Head. The Indian Head cliffs are a fairly popular hiking destination, and provide a good view to the south for a fairly short hike. The trail begins at the parking area for the Flume Gorge, one of Franconia Notch's most popular attractions. Follow the Franconia Notch Recreation Path (a paved multi-use trail) for 0.1 miles, then turn left onto Mt. Pemigewasset Trail. It quickly passes below Rt. 3, and after a short meander through the woods, leads under Rt. 93. Here, 0.4 miles from the parking area, it begins to climb, following and crossing many small brooks. It ascends moderately, sometimes directly uphill and sometimes across the slope. After about a mile, the trail passes a large boulder and, soon after, enters the conifer forest around the summit. In 1.7 total miles, pass Indian Head Trail on the right. The ascent becomes easier, and the trail climbs 0.1 miles to the top of the Indian Head cliffs.

The cliffs overlook Rt. 93 and many distant mountains to the south. To the east, you can see Loon Mountain, Scar Ridge, and Mt. Osceola through the trees. To the southwest, Mt. Moosilauke rises behind Mt. Wolf. For another view, continue along the ledges to the left, then turn the corner and follow the trail to its end at the true summit of Mt. Pemigewasset, where there is a limited view up to Mt. Liberty and Mt. Flume.

Printable directions page