ON OUR LAND
From left: When planning a visit to Mount Major, it’s imperative that hikers arrive prepared with an understanding of the trail system and available routes. Hikers should follow designated trails, even through well-worn sections.
Your Guide to Recreating Responsibly and Safely on Mount Major By Matt Scaccia
W
hether you are looking to visit Mount Major for the first time or the hundredth time, it is important to plan ahead and come to the reservation prepared and knowing the best ways to recreate responsibly and safely. Known for its stunning views as well as its reputation for being a very popular destination, Mount Major rises 1,786 feet above sea level on the easternmost edge of the venerable Belknap Mountain Range. The open summit offers stunning views of Lake Winnipesaukee and the White Mountains to the north. Three moderately difficult trails originate from the main parking area on Route 11 in Alton: • Mount Major Trail (Blue Trail): 1.5 miles | 1,150 foot elevation gain • Brook Trail (Yellow Trail): 1.7 miles | 925 foot elevation gain • Boulder Loop Trail (Orange Trail): 1.6 miles | 1,150 foot elevation gain 22 | FOREST NOTES Summer 2021
It is estimated that more than 80,000 hikers visit Mount Major every year, making it one of the most climbed mountains in New England. On sunny holiday weekends between May and October, upwards of 400 vehicles have been counted at the trailhead. To avoid the crowds, try to visit the reservation during the early morning, on weekdays, or during the shoulder seasons. For a gentler ascent and descent, the Brook Trail is a suitable option. Mount Major is open year-round with portable toilets located at the trailhead and a plowed parking lot throughout the winter. Visitor information, guidelines, and a trail map are displayed at the trailhead kiosk and staff are often at the trailhead on fair weather summer days, weekends, and holidays to answer questions and share more about the Forest Society. With all that Mount Major has to offer, it is no wonder that the mountain shows
many noticeable effects from the amount of use it receives, including litter and erosion. To aid visitors in reducing their impact and maintaining a high-quality experience for everyone, the Forest Society collaborated with the Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics to develop specific tips for visiting Mount Major. These key concepts include: 1) Stay on the trails and follow trail markers. Hiking on designated routes protects surrounding plants from being trampled and prevents visitor-created side trails from being made. 2) Hike in the middle of the trail. Bonus points if it is on rocks and through mud. Wear appropriate footwear and hike in the center of the path, even through mud and water—and not around it—to avoid widening the trail. Hike on rocks and boulders where possible to help reduce soil erosion and crushing vegetation.
