Nancy Brook/Norcross Pond

We hiked from Rte 302 in Bartlett, 2.4 miles in to Nancy Cascades and then in .2 mi, climbed 1000 feet to the top of the cascades and then up another 700 ft to Nancy Pond. We hiked along Nancy Pond and came to Norcross Pond. At the western end of Norcross we sat on the cliff overlooking the Pemigawasset Wilderness.....total hike 8.6 miles with an elevation gain of 2210'.....beautiful, simply beautiful...serene, peaceful.....my personal homage to those who lost their lives on 9/11........great day, great hike......pics posted on facebook under gayskier@yahoo... posted by gayskier for JT.    Thank you JT

Summery: At first glance in the guidebooks the mileage and elevation notations can be intimidating. Do not be fooled, this trail is very challenging but is also very doable. Scheduled for an amazing weekend. Temperatures will be cool and even possible freezing at night time; the foliage will be developing in the higher evaluations.  

This trail starts at the highway and begins by following old logging paths and trails up to the Nancy Cascade. At this point the Trail will then ascend up a steep slope via switchbacks. The trail will climb close to 1000’ in less then 2/10 of a mile.  Once completed the remainder of the hike will follow the trail through an amazing spruce forest covered in moss carpet. The trip will end at the outlet of Norcross pond which affords a spectacular view of the Pemi Wilderness.

This hike will be characterized as a MODERATE TO STRENUOUS trip. This trip is long and at one particular section is steep. Not ideal as the FIRST hike of the season. Please be sure to have done other hikes and walking to prepare.

Equipment: As always beware of the White Mountains. Seasonal temps will be hoped for but always plan for conditions to worsen with out notice. There are few seasonal brook crossings, should strong rains present the week prior the brooks will be full and difficult to cross.  This trail does NOT break tree line. Standard hiking gear is always recommended, there are NO filtered water sources on this trail please plan accordingly.When in doubt always contact me if you have any questions.

Pets: Due to group size please consider NOT bringing pets. If you have questions please contact me. This is a long day hike.

Distance:

Distances collected from AMC Guide

Trailhead @ US 302 (elev. 940’)

To Nancy Cascades – 2.4 miles (elev. 2400’)

To Nancy Pond – 3.5 miles (elev. 3100’)

To Norcross Pond Outlet – 4.3 miles (elev. 3150’)