Mount Osceola is one of New Hampshire's 4000-footers. The bare summit slab provides 180-degree views north towards the mountain ranges lining the Kancamagus and outstanding peak foliage. This hike is an out-and-back excursion on the Mount Osceola Trail. There are no sections of extreme exposure on this hike.

This is a very popular hike and the trailhead parking area does fill pretty early so you'll most likely have to park alongside the road. Please note that the hike will start PROMPTLY AT 10:30AM.  A USFS Parking Day Pass IS required at this parking area. A day pass will be available at the trailhead for $3.00 at the self-serve kiosk.

Although there are some ledges on this trail, the hike is suitable for bad weather. Rain will NOT cancel hiking plans.

Details

What: Mount Osceola
Distance: 6.4 miles out-and-back
Elevation Gain: 2343'
Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous
Pace: Moderate. Approximately 1.5 -2.0 miles per hour
Exposure: No serious exposure on this hike
Estimated Time: 5 1/2 hours

Is This Hike For Me?

This hike will at a moderate pace. The goal will be to support hikers new to the White Mountains in achieving a 4,000 foot summit. We make every attempt to keep the group together throughout the hike.

To participate you should:

• Be comfortable hiking UPHILL at about 1.5 to 2.0 miles per hour at a 15% incline for about 4 miles
• Be comfortable walking at least 8 miles on uneven terrain including roots, rocks, and granite ledges
• Have sturdy hiking boots. No Sneakers!
• Have rain and wind protection. No Ponchos!
• Be able to carry at least 2 liters of water [Remember, 1 liter weighs 2 pounds!]
• Be in good physical condition

Equipment List

• Synthetic shirt and pants. No cotton. No jeans.
• Sturdy Hiking Boots. No Sneakers.
• Rain/Wind Jacket. No Ponchos.
• Warm fleece layer.
• Wool hat and gloves.
• Something warm for the summit. Expect it to be very windy, and expect much cooler temperatures this time of year.
• 2 liters of Water
• Headlamp
• Trail Snacks
• Lunch

Optional Gear:

• Hiking Poles
• Gaiters
• Camera/Binoculars

No Jeans, Sneakers, or Cotton clothing on the hike!

After The Hike: We'll have dinner back on my house in Waterville Valley. It's BYOB and about $5 per person for food costs. Bring a change of clothes. I have lots of towels and everyone can take showers to clean up.  

Lodging Option: Note that Osceola is very practical as a day-hike from Boston. This section on lodging is included for those that wish to stay over one night around the hike and possibly join us on Sunday's Greeley Ponds Hike [must sign up separately]. I have 8 bunks available with linen for Saturday night at my house in Waterville Valley for $20. You can use the kitchen facilities and store beverages/food in the fridge. I serve coffee in the morning and a continental breakfast. Contact me to RSVP. SPACE IS LIMITED TO EIGHT GUYS.

[Car Pooling is strongly encouraged]

• I-93 North
• Take Exit 28 in NH towards Waterville Valley. Turn RIGHT onto Route 49 East for 10.2 miles
• Turn LEFT to the access road for the Waterville Valley Ski Area for 1.3 miles
• Turn RIGHT to Tripoli Road [dirt road] and follow for 3.2 miles where it crests at the 2,300-foot pass
• About 200 yards beyond, the Mount Osceola Trail enters the woods on the right [north], where there is parking area. I'll be wearing a Patriots Hat at the trailhead kiosk.