Hiking the Welch Dickey Loop in the White Mountains of New Hampshire
The Welch Dickey Loop hike offers 4.5 miles of breathtaking beauty and features Welch and Dickey Mountains, which offer incredible panoramic views that will leave you in awe.
Important Hiking Considerations:
We began the hike at the Welch Dickey Loop trailhead, on Orris Road, which is a few miles east of the Campton exit on Interstate 93.
Most guides recommend the loop be done in a counterclockwise fashion and we agree that it is best done in a counterclockwise direction. This means you begin with a gradual ascent up Welch Mountain. The trail winds through a mixed forest, going through a number of muddy areas in the first 1.3 miles or so. After that, the trail begins climbing more on bedrock and more views and vistas begin to appear.
The summit of Welch Mountain has a panoramic view that stretches as far as the eye can see. After the summit, you descend to the col between Welch and Dickey Mountains and from there, it's time to go up and you begin the climb up Dickey Mountain, There are some steep sections, but the views at the summit are well worth it.
From Dickey Mountain, the trail descends via one of the mountain's ridges. There are several large open rock slabs you descend down and at one point, walk alongside a long cliff, giving you the opportunity to look back on both Dickey and Welch Mountains.
This hike is 4.5 miles with about 1,785 feet of elevation gain. This is a moderate hike that would be considered challenging for those who are afraid of heights or open rock slabs. In addition, this trail should only be attempted in dry weather, as the rock slabs could become slippery when wet. There's also no water on the trail after the first 1.2 miles until you return to the trailhead.
Most guides recommend the loop be done in a counterclockwise fashion and we agree that it is best done in a counterclockwise direction. This means you begin with a gradual ascent up Welch Mountain. The trail winds through a mixed forest, going through a number of muddy areas in the first 1.3 miles or so. After that, the trail begins climbing more on bedrock and more views and vistas begin to appear.
The summit of Welch Mountain has a panoramic view that stretches as far as the eye can see. After the summit, you descend to the col between Welch and Dickey Mountains and from there, it's time to go up and you begin the climb up Dickey Mountain, There are some steep sections, but the views at the summit are well worth it.
From Dickey Mountain, the trail descends via one of the mountain's ridges. There are several large open rock slabs you descend down and at one point, walk alongside a long cliff, giving you the opportunity to look back on both Dickey and Welch Mountains.
This hike is 4.5 miles with about 1,785 feet of elevation gain. This is a moderate hike that would be considered challenging for those who are afraid of heights or open rock slabs. In addition, this trail should only be attempted in dry weather, as the rock slabs could become slippery when wet. There's also no water on the trail after the first 1.2 miles until you return to the trailhead.
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You can find this hike:Outdoor Hiking, Backpacking and Camping Guide Services:
Advice and Recommended Gear:
Gear we used on this hike:
- Goodr Sunglasses
- Osprey Talon 22 Pack
- Altra Lone Peak Shoes
- Black Diamond Trail Back Trekking Poles
- Darn Tough Socks
- Sawyer Squeeze Water Filter
- Nalgene 32-ounce Wide-Mouth Water Bottles
- Energizer LED Headlamp
- Columbia Titanium Outdry Ex Reign Jacket
- Patagonia Nine Trails Shorts
- NEMO Chipper Reclaimed Closed-Cell Foam Seat Pad
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- 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.
- 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.
- 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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