PLEASE NOTE: The trails up Mount Jefferson are strenuous, and weather on the exposed alpine summit can be harsh and unpredictable.
Caps Ridge Trail: Though inaccessible during the winter months, the Caps Ridge Trailhead (3,000') is the highest elevation trailhead in the White Mountains for hikers looking to climb a Four Thousand Footer. From the top of Jefferson Notch, the Caps Ridge Trail climbs 2.2 miles and 2,700 feet to the alpine summit of Mount Jefferson. Despite being the third highest peak in the Presidential Range, the comparatively short climb and high elevation start makes the Caps Ridge Trail one of the most accessible and popular routes in the higher summits.
Castle Trail: From the Castle Trailhead, the Castle Trail climbs 4.4 miles and 4,200 feet to the summit of Mount Jefferson (5,716') via the impressive Castellated Ridge. The trail begins on the Presidential Rail Trail, heading west on the gravel path for a few hundred feet until entering the woods. In 0.1 miles the trail crosses the Israel River, which can be at times uncrossable during highwater periods. During most times of year, hikers should be prepared for wet feet when crossing. The Castle Trail follows the Israel River gently upslope 1.25 miles to the junction with the Israel Ridge Path, where the Castle Trail leaves the river and begins to climb more steeply towards the ridge. In another 2.1 miles the trail breaks above tree line onto the Castellated Ridge, traversing a series of impressive rock outcroppings towards the summit of Mount Jefferson, a mile beyond.
Castle Ravine Trail: From the Castle Trailhead, the Castle Ravine Trail climbs 4.4 miles and 4,200 feet to the summit of Mount Jefferson (5,716') via the impressive Castellated Ridge. The trail begins on the Presidential Rail Trail, heading west on the gravel path for a few hundred feet until entering the woods. In 0.1 miles the trail crosses the Israel River, which can be at times uncrossable during highwater periods. During most times of year, hikers should be prepared for wet feet when crossing. The Castle Trail follows the Israel River gently upslope 1.25 miles to the junction with the Israel Ridge Path. Turn left to cross the Israel River again, following the Israel Ridge Path 0.4 miles to the beginning of the Castle Ravine Trail. The Castle Ravine Trail continues along the floor of Castle Ravine up towards the headwall, where the trail steepens sharply and breaks above treeline, climbing to Edmands Col. From Edmands Col, hikers can continue 0.2 miles south on the Gulfside Trail to the Mount Jefferson Loop, where the trail climbs 0.3 miles to the summit of Mount Jefferson. A loop can be made by returning to the trailhead via the Castle Trail over the Castellated Ridge.
Before you hike, know the hiker responsibility code and be prepared:
Visit the hikeSafe website to learn more!
These trails are managed by the White Mountains National Forest and maintained by the Randolph Mountain Club. For more information, contact:
Caps Ridge Trailhead: Jefferson Notch Road is closed November - June
From I-93 heading north, take Exit 35 for US-3 North after passing through Franconia Notch. Head north on US-3 for 10.5 miles to Twin Mountain, and turn right on US-302 East. Take US-302 4.5 miles then turn left onto Base Station Road, following signs for the Cog Railway. Take Base Station Road for 4.5 miles then turn left onto Jefferson Notch Road. The trailhead is located 3.2 miles up Jefferson Notch Road at the height of land.
From Gorham, head west on US-2 for 10.8 miles, and turn left onto Valley Road. Take Valley Road for 1.1 miles then turn left up Jefferson Notch Road. The trailhead is located 5.3 miles up Jefferson Notch Road at the height of land.
From I-93 North, take Exit 35 for US-3 North after passing through Franconia Notch. Head north on US-3 10.5 miles to Twin Mountain, and continue north through town another 2 miles for NH-115 N. Take NH-115 N 9.5 miles to US-2, then turn right/east for Gorham. In 4.1 miles, the Castle Trailhead is on your right.
From Gorham, head west on US-2 for 9.7 miles, and the Castle Trailhead is on your left.
This trail passes an area containing rare and fragile alpine plants, some of which grow on exposed rocks or in rock crevices. Stay on trails and avoid stepping on plants or disturbing shallow soils. If pets are permitted on this trail or property, please keep them leashed.
Many people choose to hike this trail. For a less busy hike experience, consider visiting midweek, rather than on weekends. Use Trail Finder to identify other nearby trails. If the parking lot is full when you arrive, please choose another trail. Be considerate of your fellow trail enthusiasts - pass at safe distances, and move on from viewpoints if others are waiting.
The White Mountains are beautiful, but they can also be treacherous. Weather can change quickly. Many trails are narrow, steep and rocky. Educate yourself about the challenges you will encounter on the trail you plan to hike. Visit the hikeSafe website to learn more about how to prepare for hiking in the White Mountains.
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