Appalachian Mountain Club Highland Center at Crawford Notch
Appalachian Mountain Club Highland Center at Crawford Notch
Highlight • Rest Area
Hiking
5.0
(5)
Cycling
5.0
(1)
The AMC Highland Center at Crawford Notch is a premier lodge and information hub nestled within the stunning White Mountain National Forest in Bretton Woods, New Hampshire. Situated at an elevation of 582 meters at the southern base of the Presidential Range, this Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC) facility serves as an ideal basecamp for exploring the iconic trails and natural beauty of Crawford Notch. It offers a welcoming retreat for outdoor enthusiasts, providing comfortable accommodations and essential services in the heart of the White Mountains.
Visitors consistently praise the Highland Center for its exceptional access to a wide array of trails, including direct access to Mount Willard and a path to Mount Pierce across the street. The comprehensive support for hikers, featuring a complimentary L.L.Bean Gear Room for borrowing equipment and a convenient hiker shuttle to various trailheads, significantly enhances the outdoor experience. Guests also appreciate the educational programs, guided day hikes, and evening talks that deepen their connection to the region's natural history and outdoor skills.
Before embarking on your adventures, it's helpful to know that the Highland Center offers practical support for all visitors. The Macomber Family Information Center, located in the historic Crawford Depot just a few hundred yards away, provides interpretive displays, an information desk, and a small gift shop for last-minute hiking essentials. While there is ample parking at AMC Highland Center Crawford Notch, the AMC hiker shuttle offers a convenient way to access many popular trails without needing to move your car, making it easier to plan your day hikes from AMC Highland Center.
The best time to visit Crawford Notch for hiking depends on your preferred activities, with the center offering seasonal activities AMC Highland Center Crawford Notch throughout the year. From spring through fall, the area is perfect for hiking, trail running, and exploring scenic viewpoints. The center provides full meal service, and its guided activities, instructional talks, and evening programs cater to a wide range of interests, making it a family friendly activities AMC Highland Center destination. Whether you're looking for easy hiking trails near AMC Highland Center Crawford Notch or more challenging hikes from AMC Highland Center, there's an adventure waiting.
Many visitors highlight the unique experience of staying at a full-service lodge that also houses the official AMC Library and Archives, offering a glimpse into the club's rich history. The ability to borrow gear, enjoy home-cooked meals, and connect with fellow outdoor enthusiasts around a cozy fireplace creates a strong sense of community. The convenience of having shuttles to nearby trailheads and knowledgeable staff providing weather and trail information ensures a well-prepared and enjoyable visit.
With numerous trails branching out from its doorstep, the AMC Highland Center at Crawford Notch is an ideal starting point for exploring the White Mountains. Whether you're planning a leisurely walk or an ambitious ascent, you can discover a variety of routes tailored to different skill levels. Use komoot to explore the diverse hiking and cycling options available, helping you plan your perfect outdoor adventure in this stunning New Hampshire landscape.
Tips
September 13, 2023
Hiking
November 12, 2023
Cycling
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Appalachian Mountain Club Highland Center at Crawford Notch
4.5
(2)
54
hikers
20.3km
07:53
970m
1,090m
Embark on the challenging Mount Pierce, Jackson, and Webster Loop, a difficult hike spanning 12.6 miles (20.3 km) with a significant 3170 feet (966 metres) of elevation gain. This route will take you approximately 7 hours and 52 minutes to complete. You will journey through varied terrain, starting in forested areas where you might encounter small waterfalls along Gibbs Brook, before ascending to exposed ridges and open summits offering expansive views.
When planning your visit, be prepared for potentially cold and windy conditions, especially on the exposed mountain summits, even during warmer months; packing extra layers is always a good idea. Depending on the season, you might encounter muddy sections at lower elevations or need microspikes for better traction higher up. The trail often begins near the Appalachian Mountain Club Highland Center at Crawford Notch, which provides amenities, and you will pass Mizpah Spring Hut, a good spot for water and a brief rest.
This loop is notable for its panoramic vistas of the Presidential Range, including majestic Mount Washington, visible from the summits of Mount Pierce, Mount Jackson, and Mount Webster. The route also features boardwalks that help you navigate damp alpine sections, ensuring continuous views along the ridges. It offers a rewarding experience for experienced hikers seeking a comprehensive tour of these iconic peaks.
29
hikers
13.3km
05:09
1,400m
80m
Embark on a challenging hike up Mount Washington via the historic Crawford Path Trail, a difficult route spanning 8.3 miles (13.3 km). You will experience a dramatic shift from forested areas to expansive alpine terrain as you ascend, gaining a significant 4595 feet (1400 metres) in elevation. The trail offers views of the Northern Presidentials and the Cog Railroad, leading to a rugged, rocky landscape above the treeline. Expect an estimated hiking time of 5 hours and 8 minutes to complete this demanding journey.
Planning your visit requires careful consideration due to Mount Washington's notoriously unpredictable and extreme weather, which can bring high winds and cold temperatures at any time of year. Continuous weather monitoring is essential for your safety on this route, which is considered extra difficult because of its rugged terrain and substantial climb. Be prepared for exposed conditions, especially above the treeline, and ensure you have appropriate gear for all possibilities.
This iconic trail is renowned for its unique natural environment, transitioning from lush forest to a stark, exposed ridge with far-reaching vistas. As you climb, you will pass by the picturesque Lake of the Clouds Hut and Lakes View, offering scenes of glacial ponds. The route's historical significance as one of the oldest continuously used trails in the United States adds to its appeal, making it a notable ascent in the White Mountain National Forest.
2
hikers
2.12km
00:34
20m
20m
Hike the easy 1.3-mile Around the Lake Trail in White Mountain National Forest, offering forest views and a peaceful escape.
Details
Informations
Elevation 580 m
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22°C
7°C
64 %
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Max wind speed: 29.0 km/h
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Many trails within the White Mountain National Forest, including those accessible from the Highland Center, are dog-friendly. However, dogs must be kept on a leash at all times. Please note that while trails are generally welcoming to dogs, specific indoor facilities at the Highland Center may have restrictions. Always check trail-specific regulations before heading out.
Beyond hiking, the Highland Center offers a variety of family-friendly activities. These include complimentary guided day hikes suitable for various skill levels, instructional talks on outdoor skills or natural history, and evening programs featuring films and guest speakers. The nearby historic Crawford Depot also houses the Macomber Family Information Center with interpretive displays, which can be engaging for all ages.
The Highland Center offers comfortable accommodations, including both private rooms and quad bunk rooms. A significant benefit of staying here is that guests receive a full buffet breakfast and a hearty, home-cooked dinner as part of their stay. Lunch, beer, and wine are also available for purchase, providing a convenient and comprehensive lodging experience.
While direct public transportation to the Highland Center itself is limited, the Appalachian Mountain Club operates a hiker shuttle service. This shuttle connects the Highland Center with other major trailheads and points of interest in the White Mountains, facilitating access to the mountains without needing a personal vehicle or worrying about parking at remote trailheads.
For those seeking a challenge, the Highland Center's location at the base of the Presidential Range offers access to strenuous ascents. Trails leading to peaks like Mount Pierce, which can be accessed directly across the street, provide significant elevation gain and panoramic views. These routes often involve rocky terrain and require good physical conditioning and appropriate gear.
The AMC Highland Center provides full meal service for its guests, including breakfast and dinner, with lunch available for purchase. While the center aims to be self-sufficient for dining, there are other dining establishments in the broader Bretton Woods area and along US-302, typically a short drive away, offering additional options if desired.
The L.L.Bean Gear Room is a unique amenity at the Highland Center that provides guests with complimentary access to essential outdoor equipment. This includes items like boots, backpacks, outerwear, and snowshoes. It's an excellent resource for those trying new activities, traveling light, or who may have forgotten something, ensuring everyone is well-equipped for their adventures.
Yes, the AMC Highland Center is committed to sustainable practices and includes electric vehicle (EV) charging stations on-site. This amenity makes it convenient for visitors with EVs to recharge their vehicles while staying at the lodge or exploring the surrounding area.
The Highland Center regularly hosts a variety of educational and engaging programs. These can include instructional talks on outdoor skills, natural history of the White Mountains, and evening programs featuring films or guest speakers. Topics range from astronomy to winter hiking, providing opportunities to deepen your knowledge and appreciation for the outdoors.
The Highland Center is home to the official AMC Library and Archives, a significant resource containing thousands of documents, maps, and photographs dating back to the Appalachian Mountain Club's founding in 1876. It offers a unique glimpse into the history of outdoor recreation and conservation in the White Mountains and is a valuable resource for researchers and history enthusiasts.
Winter hiking in Crawford Notch requires specific preparation due to challenging conditions. The Highland Center is an excellent base for winter adventures, offering access to trails like Mount Willard. The L.L.Bean Gear Room can provide snowshoes and other winter gear. It's crucial to have appropriate layers, traction devices (microspikes or crampons), and knowledge of winter safety. The center's staff can provide up-to-date weather and trail information.