Hiking the Devil's Hopyard Trail, one of New Hampshire's Terrifying 25 Hikes

The Devil’s Hopyard hike in Stark, New Hampshire, offers a brief but distinctive adventure through a natural gorge lined with near-vertical cliffs and large, moss-covered boulders. The hike is a 2.4 mile in and out hike that starts on a very easy, accessible trail that becomes challenging due to the rocky and uneven terrain once you enter the Devil's Hopyard. You will encounter steep-walled sections where the Hopyard is filled with slippery boulders that make navigation more difficult, especially in the upper reaches of the trail.

One of the notable features of Devil's Hopyard is the cool microclimate created by the shaded, mossy rocks, which trap cold air and provide a refreshing contrast to the warmer temperatures outside the gorge. The elevation gain is modest at around 250 feet, but the rugged landscape and unique surroundings make the hike rewarding for those seeking a more adventurous experience.

The trailhead is located at the South Pond Recreation Area, off Route 110 on South Pond Road, within the White Mountain National Forest. It is an ideal spot for hikers seeking solitude and a deep connection with the natural environment, offering a quieter, more intimate experience compared to other trails in the region.

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You can find this hike:

• Described in the White Mountain Guide
• Shown on the AMC White Mountain Map
• Shown on the White Mountains Trail Map

Outdoor Hiking, Backpacking and Camping Guide Services:

• Hike On Guides (hike with us!)

Advice and Recommended Gear:

• Our Hiking Gear Guide and Recommendations
• Our day hike backpack recommendations
• Top Ten Day Hiking Essentials
• Favorite Hiking Gear Under $30
• Recommended Gear on Amazon
• Shop Hiker Trash Husbands Merch

Gear we used on this hike:

• Goodr Sunglasses
• REI Flash Air 50 Pack
• Gossamer Gear Shoulder Strap Pockets
• Altra Lone Peak Shoes
• Darn Tough Midweight Hiking Socks
• REI Traverse Trekking Poles
• Eddie Bauer HYOH T-Shirt
• Patagonia Nine Trails Shorts
• Nalgene 32-ounce Wide-Mouth Water Bottles
• Energizer LED Headlamp
• NEMO Chipper Reclaimed Closed-Cell Foam Seat Pad
• Garmin Forerunner 255 Smartwatch
• Garmin inReach Plus GPS

Thanks for watching! Be sure to like and subscribe on YouTube if you enjoyed our video. We appreciate the opportunity to share our adventures with you and highlight members of the LGBTQ+ community enjoying the outdoors. Proud gay hikers here! Find out more about us at The Hiker Trash Husbands on the web - https://www.hikertrashhusbands.com

Important Hiking Considerations:

1. Weather: Check the weather forecast before your hike and be prepared for changes in conditions. Weather can be unpredictable, so bring appropriate clothing and gear. 
2. Safety: Some sections of the trail can be steep and rocky, so use caution and watch your footing. It's also a good idea to hike with a friend or let someone know about your hiking plans. 
3. Leave No Trace: As with any outdoor activity, remember to follow the principles of Leave No Trace. Pack out any trash, stay on the trail, and be respectful of the natural environment.

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