Glencliff Trail

Approach

Follow the directions in the "Getting There" section of the main page.

Route Description

This route heads up the west side of the Moosilauke Group and ends up in the saddle between Mt. Moosilauke to the northeast and South Peak to the south. The trail is filled with great picturesque views of the Moosilauke Group and surrounding countryside including the Connecticut River Valley.

Leaving from High Street in Glencliff the trail follows remnants of an old logging road as it heads through some pretty low elevation forests and pastures which afford some nice views up and back over the valley. After about a half mile the trail re-enters the woods and meets up with the Hurricane Trail on the right. At a little over two miles the trail heads straight up towards the saddle between the two summits.

At three miles you'll meet up with the Carriage Road between the two summits and South Peak will be to the right as you should see a marked sign for the South Peak Spur Trail. From here it is a short 0.2 mile jaunt to the summit which offers great views in all directions. From here you can head back down the Carriage Road making a loop with the Hurricane Trail or head up to Mt. Moosilauke's summit and come down the way you ascended. Make sure you have your camera because you'll need it.

To make the ascent of South Peak via this route and descend the same way the rount-trip will be 6.4 miles with over 3,000 feet of elevation gain. To add Mt. Moosilauke into the trip and descend the same way you'll hike 8.2 miles and gain 3,400 feet of elevation.

Essential Gear

Comfortable hiking boots, food/water, trekking poles, and a good camera.