Summer is in full swing and as the dog days roll in we’re ready to share some of our all time favorite summer hikes. From sweeping views to hidden gems, this list has something for everyone. We recommend checking out this post or this one if you’re interested in a late summer backpacking trip but for the next month we’re going to be giving you a wide variety of options in terms of day hikes that can be done in under six hours in the White Mountain National Forest. Be sure to purchase a copy of the White Mountains map set and guidebook which can be found here. Let’s get into it!

Day Hikes Under Five Miles in the WMNF

Welch-Dickey Loop, Waterville Valley, NH

4.5 Miles Round Trip
1,700’ Elevation Gain

This short loop hike is one of the most popular hikes in the Waterville Valley region of the White Mountains. Starting at the parking lot off of Orris Road, this loop can be done clockwise or counterclockwise but we recommend going counterclockwise as the ledges on Welch Mountain can be wet and slippery on the descent. Both mountaintops come with sweeping views in all directions and despite being a shorter hike, this one packs a punch in terms of climbing, gaining almost 2,000’ in less than five miles.

Route: Welch-Dickey Loop Trail, counterclockwise

West Rattlesnake Mountain, Squam Region, NH

2 Miles Out-and-Back
400’ Elevation Gain

This quick out and back hike can be done in under ninety minutes for most and is the perfect place to sit and take in the views on an afternoon, or early morning for sunrise over Squam Lake. There are a myriad of trails branching off of this small peak for those who are interested in making this into a loop instead of an out-and-back. In recent years some incredible trail work has been done to make the Old Bridle Path to the summit beautiful.

Route: Old Bridle Path, out-and-back or loop with Ramsey Trail and Undercut Trail

Sawyer Pond Scenic Area, Livermore, NH

3 Miles Out-and-Back
400’ Elevation Gain

Looking for a wilderness experience with a destination worth visiting? Check out the Sawyer Pond Scenic Area nestled right up against Sawyer Pond. This out and back hike ends at the Sawyer Pond Shelter, a three-sided structure tucked right next to Sawyer Pond. This hike gets bonus points as a perfect place to spend the night in the woods as well.

Route: Sawyer Pond Trail, out-and-back from Sawyer River Road

East Royce Mountain, Oxford, ME

3.2 Miles Out-and-Back
1,700’ Elevation Gain

Maybe you’re in the mood for a challenge but don’t have a ton of time. The steep approach to the summit of East Royce Mountain, located right on the border with the Wild River Wilderness, is the perfect peak for you. Starting on Evans Notch Road, this hike takes you up a series of steep switchbacks before making the final ascent to the top of East Royce Mountain. From the summit you have views on the ledges into the Wild River Wilderness.

Route: East Royce Trail, out-and-back

Cannon Mountain, Franconia, NH

4 Miles Out-and-Back
2,200’ Elevation Gain

This short, steep ascent to the summit of Cannon Mountain is the perfect challenge for those looking to stretch their legs, get their heart pounding, and be home in time for lunch. Coming in at under five miles, with over 2,200’ of climbing, you’re certainly going to earn your meal with this hike. The views from the summit platform are an added bonus, and the option of making this a longer hike, continuing along Kinsman Ridge Trail and descending Hi-Cannon Trail to Lonesome Lake, and taking Pemi Trail back to the start, is what sets this hike apart from many of the other 4,000’ers in terms of accessibility, diversity, and difficulty.

Route: Kinsman Ridge Trail, out-and-back

What are some of your favorite short hikes in the White Mountains? Comment Below! Next week we will share some of our favorite hikes under ten miles in the WMNF.

Our Favorite Summer Hikes Under Five Miles