Mount Major 1150 ft.
Located in Alton Bay, Mount Major is a very popular destination in the Lakes Region of NH for hiking with friends and family. This mountain is climbed by locals, as well as scout groups and school field trips. This summit rewards you with unbeatable views of beautiful Lake Winnipesaukee, NH.
From the parking lot there are two trailheads; one to the right, one to the left. The trail to the left (South) is the Boulder Loop trail, and to the right (North) is the Mt. Major trail. This trail will be marked in blue. The Mt. Major trail in blue is the most popular trail on this mountain.
This trail begins with a nice easy grade and turns into a wide old logging road. This makes for a nice beginning warm up! The tail then cuts to the left off the logging road and makes an ascent that is a little more steep, but fairly easy footing. Blue markings mark this Mt.Major trail. You will then start approaching nice flat rock areas where views will start to become visable. You will find some of these areas will make a great break spot. Further up trail will be a left turn marked trail around ledges. This is the best route to take so to avoid the steep rock cliff. You then start to ascend a little more steeply towards the summit area. Unlike Mt.Chocorua, this trail is easier a task for younger children. But always bring your patience when you spend a day together!!
The best decent would be the Boulder Loop trail located over the summit and to the left. It will be marked orange color. This decent is fairly steep in the beginning but then becomes a more moderate to easy decent. This loop is very well traveled and will bring you right back to the parking lot.
Please remember to hike safely, hydrate yourself along the way and take care not to leave trash behind. Enjoy your time on this mountain, and do come again!
Quick trail facts:
Distance : (from parking area to summit) aprrox 2.0 miles.
Difficulty Level: Easy/Moderate
Total hike length: 3.9 miles
Total Elevation: 1150 feet
Trailhead parking: Rt.11 Alton Bay, NH