Pinkham Notch

The mountain pass Pinkham Notch is named after Daniel Pinkham who explored this area in the 1700s on a sled pulled by a pig. Carved by glaciers, erosion and rivers, Pinkham Notch separates the Presidential, Wildcat and Carter-Moriah Ranges, creating a stunning landscape. Marvel at picture-perfect snow-dusted peaks and expansive views. Stop at the Pinkham Notch Visitor Center located at the top of the Notch just south of Wildcat Ski Area which serves as a hiker hostel and restaurant as well. Many trails leave from here year-round including the Tuckerman Ravine Trail, which travels by Tuckerman Ravine, a glacial cirque left behind during the last ice-age and is the most popular route to the summit of the 6288-foot Mt Washington. An easier way to those incredible views can be had by taking the 1-mile, round trip, Square Ledge Trail. Be careful, the aptly named trail has steep drop-offs. Lost Pond Trail is another short walk to exquisite views of the reflecting mountains on Lost Pond and beaver dams. Or hike to Crystal Cascade, a spectacular, two-tiered waterfall, both elegant and strong as tumbles through lush forest. The falls are about 3/10 of a mile up Tuckermans Ravine Trail.