Temple Mountain Hike

It's been a while since Jon and I led a hike in Southern NH. This time it was a few peaks in the Wapack Range: Burton Peak [2,010 ft.], Holt Peak [2,055 ft.] and the Temple Mt. Ledges.

We encountered scattered showers on the drive to the trailhead however once we arrived it stopped for the rest of the day. There was a stiff wind out of the west which kept things cold. Clouds reduced the distance of how far we could see from the outlooks. The Wapack trail had no snow however the sloping rocks were wet and slippery. The only time we encountered a lot of snow and mud was on the descent from Holt Peak to the Temple Mountain Ledges which is north facing.

About 0.4 mile into the hike we reached the open Sharon Ledges which allowed for some views; one was called the Roger Myrick Outlook with a view towards Mount Watatic. After Burton Peak there was a grand view of Mount Monadnock. We then bagged Holt Peak and took a group picture. We then hiked over to the Temple Mt. Ledges at which point the sun came out! We had lunch by these two tall rock cairns but we discovered afterwards the ledges were a bit further so we decided to check them out. There was a partial view from the ledges but what captured our attention were the stone chairs.

The walk back to the trailhead was much more pleasant with sunny skies and we were able to enjoy the views that were hidden when we hiked in. What a fine group of hikers! Thanks to all for a great hike. Nicely done, everyone!

The Temple Mountain ledges offer a great ridge walk with majestic views of neighboring Mount Monadnock and an almost surreal environment of rock ledges decorated with 10-foot-tall rock cairns and chairs constructed from rocks and boulders! The ledges are on the Wapack Trail. The hike is about 7 miles round trip with 1,500 elevation gain. It will be a leisurely three to four hour hike.

Trail Description: The footpath rises from the parking lot and eventually follows a stone wall up to the Sharon Ledges overlooking the surrounding forest, Lilliputian homes and the city of Boston about 60 miles away. We then ascend Burton Peak [2,010'] with panoramic views of Mounts Watatic and Monadnock. It then ascends Holt Peak [2,055'] and proceeds to the Temple Mountain Ledges [1,770'] where rock cairns create an otherworldly landscape.

What to wear/bring: There will still be snow on the ground and the trail will be icy so light traction [microspikes] is required. Wear clothing suitable for exposed ledges and summits...no cotton or blue jeans. Depending on the temperature, you may want to wear insulated hiking boots. Bring along water, lunch, snacks and anything else you may require for a day hike.