Overview
The loop hike of these two summits has been a classic for decades. One of the most popular hikes in the lakes region, these two classic summits contains excellent views of the north and the south. To the north you can view Sandwich Mountain and some of the White Mountains. To the south lies an amazing view of Squam Lake and Lake Winnepausaukee.
Mt. Morgan can be climb by the Mt. Morgan, which is easy class 1 trail at the bottom, and steepens toward the top. There is side trail, which is class 3 due to a tricky ladder climb and some boulder caving that lead to the summit views. If it is very icy or if this is out of comfort level stay on the class 1 trail, which contains a moderate grade to the summit.
Mt. Pervical can be ascended via the class 1-2 Mt. Pervical trail. This trail begins similar to the Mt. Morgan trail. The trail though becomes steep toward the top with plenty of exposure and some scrambles. It also has a side path, which goes though a boulder cave and is difficult.
Though the total loop is only 4.8 miles, the amount of adventures, from ladder climbing to going through boulder caves, and breathtaking views, make these summit a must on any New Hampshire hiking plan.
Getting ThereVIA MOUNT MORGAN TRAILHEAD: From I-93 get of Exit 24 and head east through the town of Ashland. Stay on the road and take 26 east to Holderness. At about 2 miles you will at the town center of Holderness. Make a left onto Route 113 and head roughly 10 minute on the road. there will be parking 5 miles on your left. The Mount Morgan trail will be there in the parking area. The Mount Percival trail will start on the 0.3 miles down the road on the left. This trailhead will be filled on the weekend so get prepared to park on street.
VIA OLD BRIDLE PATH TRAILHEAD (To the Rattlesnakes): From I-93 get of Exit 24 and head east through the town of Ashland. Stay on the road and take 26 east to Holderness. At about 2 miles you will at the town center of Holderness. Make a left onto Route 113 and head roughly 10 minute on the road. there will be parking 5 miles on your right.
VIA MOUNT PERCIVAL TRAILHEAD: Same as Mount Morgan but only the trailhead is 0.3 miles to the northeast of the Mount Morgan Trailhead. Red TapeNo fees
When To Climb
This mountain can be climbed at any time. However the mountain are much trickier in winter due to ice on the more exposed sections. As with all ladders in winter proceed great caution if you take the group of ladders to the top. These ladders ascends a cliff and has a tricky right foot moved.
Mount Percival is also very tricky in winter with the last bit of the trail being class 2, steep and exposed rock on the top. Use caution here as well. If taking this trail in winter the crampons are an absolute nessesity.
CampingThere is little reason to camp at this mountain, due to the fact that the mountain is only a three hour hike.
Mountain ConditionsHere are some websites that will provided you the best information on conditions in the White Mountains and on Mt. Morgan and Percival.
The best website for information about this loop trip
Appalachian Mountain Club
Current Trail Conditions
More Information on the Mt. Morgan Trail
More Information on the Mt. Percival Trail
Summit Picture LogPost your summit mugshot here.
Images
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NH Lakes Region
