Hiking Mount Cardigan, New Hampshire
Almost a month ago we hiked up Mount Cardigan and back down. (The reason why I’m writing about it this late was explained in the previous blog post.) That hike was excellent and is still one of my favorite short hikes.
People have been climbing Mount Cardigan since the early 19th century. It became particularly popular after 1867 when a carriage road to the summit was built. In 1855 a forest fire devastated the summit and left behind the bare granite mountaintop that is still there now. The 3,155-foot treeless summit offers spectacular views in all directions. On a clear day you can see Mount Monadnock and the White Mountains of New Hampshire, Camel’s Hump in Vermont and even Pleasant Mountain in Maine.
There are numerous trails to the top. Cardigan State Park lies on the west side of the mountain and is the starting point for the Class 1 West Ridge Trail. After about half a mile it bends to the left, while the Class 1-2 South Ridge Trail forks to the right. We followed that South Ridge Trail which passes by South Peak on the way to Mount Cardigan’s summit and came back down along the West Ridge Trail.
The total distance was about four miles and it took us two and a half hour to complete this loop, including a lunch break at the summit. I really liked the treeless summit – it is technically not above the tree line – which allowed for wonderful views.
A major highlight of this particular hike was two eagles that came soaring by when we were near the South Peak.
What majestic birds they are.
Mount Cardigan looks like one amazing hike. These are some great photos too – the scenery is absolutely beautiful! Thank you for sharing your experience!
Brittany, yes, Cardigan is probably still my favorite mountain in New England. The views from the top are absolutely amazing.