Our fourth of five winter introduction hikes to ease you into winter hiking leading to ascending your first winter 4,000 footer! MicroSpikes required, insulated winter hiking boots recommended and snowshoes will likely be needed since this trail is not used much in winter. We’ll let you know a few days before if snowshoes will be needed.

The summit of Black Mountain [2,830 feet] it provides nearly 360-degree views from its wide, rocky summit, as well as a very scenic hike! The summit has a great close-up view of the massive Mt. Moosilauke. We’ll be taking the Chippewa Trail up and back. 

The entire hike is only 3.6 miles with 1,650 feet elevation gain. We’ll have lunch on the summit. Start time is 10:30 AM.

Don't forget to wear warm layers [NO COTTON OR BLUE JEANS], gloves, warm hat, rain/wind shell, water, lunch, snacks, and anything else you would bring for a cold weather hike. We are packing hand warmers for our gloves. The trail will be covered with snow and ice so a traction device of some sort like MicroSpikes is required. Winter insulated boots to keep your feet and toes warm recommended. We’ll let you know if snowshoes will be required a few days before the hike. Since this is an introduction series, please don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any questions on the clothing and gear to bring!  

Après Hiking Dinner:  Everyone is welcome to join us back at our house in Waterville Valley if you provide us proof of vaccination to relax beside our fireplace with views of the Sandwich Mountain/Mad River [BYOB and bring snacks] followed by one of Jon's delicious dinners. We ask $10 per person to help pay for our food costs. Showers are available so bring a change of clothing to make your visit with us more comfortable.

Lodging Option: Bunk beds are available at our house [with Wi Fi] near Waterville Valley, NH for Friday and/or Saturday night if you provide us proof of vaccination. It’s $25 for Friday night and $35 for Saturday that includes dinner [$60 for the weekend]. Coffee/bagels each morning and linen/blankets/towels are provided. Space is limited so email ASAP to reserve a bunk!

Trailhead and parking area are on Lime Kiln Road in Haverhill, NH (summit is in Benton). Lime Kiln Road leaves the north side of Rt. 25 8.8 miles northwest of Rt. 118 and 4.9 miles east of Rt. 10. The parking area is 3.1 miles up Lime Kiln Road, on the right side. Look for a Chippewa Trail sign.