Piper Mountain

Overview

Are you looking for a summit that is easily accessible, contains spectacular views and is unknown even by locals. Well Piper Mountain in the heart of New Hampshire's Lakes Region is the ideal mountain for you. Located next to the more popular Belknap Mountain, Piper Mountain's long ridge, which has large pockets of exposed ledges, is filled with terrific viewing areas. Views from Piper easily rival if not surpass the ultra popular Mt. Major and Piper Mountain much easier than Mt. Major. The western view from the mountain contains Lake Winnisquam, Mt. Kearsarge, Ragged Mountain and on clear days the Green Mountains.

Three are two class one trails to the summit. The New Piper Mountain Trail start from just beyond the gate of the Carriage Road into the park (gate closed for October 2005 due to flooding) and is a moderate pitch class 1 trail to the summit of Piper Mountain. The second way to summit is by taking Belknap Mountain's White Trail to the old Piper Mountain Trail. The trail then travels up to summit of Piper Mountain In moderate grade staying consistantly class 1 throughout the hike. Once of the summit continue down the green marked trail for 0.3 miles to see continued views.

Fall Foilage photo

Getting There

VIA THE CARRIAGE ROAD: From the I-93 exit in Tilton (exit 20) take route 3 east toward Laconia. Make a right on Route 11 bypass rough six miles east of I-93. Get on to 11A heading towards Gilford. Make a right on Belknap Mountain Road. Head through the town center of Gilford and head for almost 3 miles. Make a left at the old sign pointing to Belknap Mountain. Head up the road all the way to the trailhead which is at the end of the road.

Red Tape

There is no camping allowed at the summit the gates close at exactly 6 pm. The gate is closed in winter.

When To Climb

This mountain can done at anytime. However in winter you must start at the gate of the Carriage Road.

Camping

There no camping on the summit however there of plenty of campgrounds nearby Belknap mountain. Keep in mind that from the carriage road trailhead to the summit only takes 25-45 minutes making little reason for camping.

Mountain Conditions

Here are two websites that will provided you the best information on conditions on Piper Mountain.

Appalachian Mountain Club

Current Trail Conditions

Weather Conditions

This is the best link to weather in Laconia.

Weather in Nearby Laconia

Summit Picture Log

Post all of your hero pictures here.